Fructose-Free Diet

Following a fructose-free diet excludes any food or beverage containing the sugar fructose, as well as any sugar that converts to fructose. Table sugar, high fructose corn syrup, glucose and the sugar substitute sorbitol are included on the list. Understanding the rationale behind the diet and becoming knowledgeable about dietary precautions are vital when adopting a fructose-free eating style.

Rationale

A fructose-free diet is generally prescribed for individuals who have one of two types of fructose intolerance. Hereditary fructose intolerance (HFI) is a rare genetic disorder involving the absence of the gastrointestinal enzyme aldolase B, which breaks down fructose for absorption into the bloodstream. A buildup of fructose in the blood damages the kidneys and liver. Fructose malabsorption is the second type of intolerance 1. Although less serious, it produces uncomfortable gastrointestinal symptoms such as gas, bloating and diarrhea. Both conditions require diagnosis by a physician. Dr. Luc Tappy at the University of Lausanne in Switzerland says “no direct evidence for more serious metabolic consequences” exists for healthy individuals who wish to avoid fructose.

Natural Sources

Stevia & the Atkins Diet

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Fructose is a simple sugar found naturally in fruit. Because fruit is the primary source, all fruits, juices, extracts and dehydrated fruits are avoided. Some vegetables have a high natural fructose content. This includes carrots, tomatoes, corn, newly harvested white potatoes and sweet potatoes. According to the Hereditary Fructose Intolerance Laboratory at Boston University, cooking vegetables releases free fructose and may help improve tolerance in some individuals.

Processed Foods

Numerous manufactured foods utilize fructose, table sugar and sorbitol as additives. Fifty percent of table sugar, or sucrose, is fructose. When choosing a processed food item, read labels carefully. Fructose hides under other names such as:

• beet sugar
  
• brown rice syrup
  
• baker’s sugar
  
• date sugar
  
• carob powder
  
• cane sugar

More detailed information is available online (see Resources below).

Menu Suggestions

Foods High in Glycolic Acid

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Most protein foods are permissible. Calcium-rich milk, cheese and natural yogurts provide variety when menu planning. A limited number of vegetables are permitted, which include:

• asparagus
  
• cauliflower
  
• spinach
  
• rutabagas
  
• peppers
  
• lettuce

Pasta, rice, barley, and unsweetened breads and cereals are fine starch choices. All fats such as butter, margarine and oil are allowed. Salad dressing should be made from scratch because many commercial dressings contain sugar. Additional lists of allowable food items, recipes and discussion blogs are available online (see Resources below).

Considerations

Individuals following a fructose-free eating plan should be aware the diet is limited in vitamin C and antioxidants. In addition, nutritional supplements may contain sugar and sorbitol. Consultation with a physician and registered dietitian is highly recommended.