Fructose Malabsorption and Probiotics

Fructose malabsorption is a condition in which you are not able to absorb fructose, a sugar found in fruits and various sweeteners. Unabsorbed fructose is fermented in your intestines and result in bloating, abdominal pain, flatulence, diarrhea and constipation as well as fatigue. The only way to manage fructose malabsorption is by restricting sources of fructose in your diet 1. While many people take probiotics -- friendly bacteria that can improve the quality of your gut flora -- people with fructose malabsorption need to exercise caution in choosing and using any probiotics. Check with your doctor before adding probiotics to your diet.

Elimination Phase

After being diagnosed with fructose malabsorption, you are typically referred to a qualified registered dietitian to help you get started in changing the way you eat. An elimination diet of safe foods low in fructose will help you get rid of most of your symptoms. During the elimination phase, which typically lasts a few weeks, it is best to avoid changing other factor that may affect your symptoms. For this reason, you should not start, stop or change any of your supplements, such as probiotics, during this phase.

Excess Gas

Sorbitol & Fructose

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One of the potential problems with fructose malabsorption is the excess production of gas by the bacteria in the intestinal tract 1. This is why adding probiotics can sometimes exacerbate your symptoms if you have fructose malabsorption 2. If you decide to start, stop or change your probiotic for any reason, document how it makes you feel, and bring any concerns to your doctor or dietician.

Watch for Prebiotics

Some probiotic supplements can contain prebiotics. Prebiotics are food for the probiotic and healthy bacteria and help you to maintain a healthy and favorable gut flora. Some of the prebiotics that are most often used include inulin and fructooligosaccharides -- substances that may be difficult to digest for people with fructose malabsorption. Carefully check the ingredient list of any supplements, including probiotics, before buying to ensure they do not contain potentially problematic ingredients.

Start Small

Do You Have to Take Probiotics on an Empty Stomach?

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Whenever introducing something new to your diet, it is always prudent to start small to test how your body reacts. With your doctor's or dietician's okay, you can start with a small dose for a week and then slowly work your way up to an amount that is comfortable for you. If you are critically ill or are immunocompromised or take immune-suppressing drugs, probiotics are not a good choice -- discuss this with your doctor.