Fructose intolerance in children presenting with abdominal pain

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Using Multi-fluorinated Bile Acids and In Vivo Magnetic Resonance Imaging to Measure Bile Acid Transport
08:42

Using Multi-fluorinated Bile Acids and In Vivo Magnetic Resonance Imaging to Measure Bile Acid Transport

Published on: November 27, 2016

Robert E Gomara1, Michael S Halata, Leonard J Newman

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA.

Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition
|August 30, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Fructose malabsorption is common in children with functional bowel disorders. Dietary changes effectively reduce gastrointestinal symptoms in these patients.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Digestive Health
  • Clinical Nutrition

Background:

  • Functional bowel disorders are a common cause of abdominal pain in children.
  • Fructose malabsorption is increasingly recognized as a potential contributor to these symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of fructose malabsorption in pediatric patients with functional abdominal pain.
  • To assess the impact of fructose intake restriction on symptom reporting and severity.
  • To investigate the relationship between fructose dosage and symptom manifestation.

Main Methods:

  • A fructose breath test was administered to children with unexplained abdominal pain.
  • Participants received varying doses of fructose (1g, 15g, 45g) with breath hydrogen measured.
  • Positive test results were defined by elevated breath hydrogen and accompanying gastrointestinal symptoms.

Main Results:

  • None of the patients receiving 1g of fructose had positive results.
  • Positive fructose malabsorption tests occurred in 30% (15g dose) and 61.5% (45g dose).
  • Dietary restriction of fructose led to rapid and sustained improvement in gastrointestinal symptoms for most affected children.

Conclusions:

  • Fructose malabsorption is a significant factor in pediatric functional abdominal pain.
  • Managing dietary fructose intake is an effective strategy for alleviating gastrointestinal symptoms in children.
Abstract

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