Is fructose safe for people with IBS?

Fructose can be problematic for people with IBS, especially if consumed in large amounts or if it's not balanced with glucose. It's considered high FODMAP unless glucose is present in higher quantities.

What is the difference between fructose and glucose-fructose?

In Canada, 'glucose-fructose' on ingredient labels indicates a high FODMAP content, while elsewhere, if glucose is listed before fructose, the FODMAP load is considered low.

Can fructose cause allergic reactions?

Fructose itself is not known to cause allergic reactions, but it can cause digestive discomfort in some individuals.

Fructose

Avoid

Sweetener

Fructose is a natural sugar found in many fruits and is classified as a high FODMAP ingredient when present in excess relative to glucose.

What is Fructose?

Fructose is a simple sugar naturally occurring in many fruits, vegetables, and honey. It is a monosaccharide, which is a basic sugar unit that the body uses for energy. In the food industry, fructose is often used as a sweetener in processed foods and beverages.

Also known as:

Fruit sugarLevulose

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Diet Compatibility

Low FODMAPAvoid

Fructose, a monosaccharide, is high FODMAP at a normal serving size. However, if you see fructose listed after glucose on an ingredient label, the FODMAP load is considered low - with one exception: If you see "glucose-fructose" on a Canadian food product, consider it high FODMAP.

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Alpha-Gal FriendlySafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Alphagal diet.

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Dairy FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Dairy Free diet.

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Gluten FreeSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gluten Free diet.

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VeganSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Vegan diet.

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VegetarianSafe

This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Vegetarian diet.

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Compatibility ratings are general guidelines and may vary by individual. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.

Why People Avoid Fructose

Some individuals, particularly those with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or fructose malabsorption, avoid fructose because it is classified as a high FODMAP ingredient when consumed in large amounts. FODMAPs are short-chain carbohydrates that can be poorly absorbed in the small intestine, leading to digestive issues like bloating, gas, and diarrhea. However, if fructose is listed after glucose on an ingredient label, the FODMAP load is considered low, except in Canada where 'glucose-fructose' indicates a high FODMAP load.

Potential Reactions

Bloating
Gas
Diarrhea
Abdominal pain

This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Individual reactions can vary. Consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about specific ingredients.

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