Fructose Intolerance: Cause or Cure of Chronic Functional Constipation

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Gastroenterology
• Digestive Health
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Functional constipation is prevalent in children.
• The connection between fructose intake and constipation lacks extensive research.
• Dietary factors are increasingly recognized in pediatric functional gastrointestinal disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between fructose tolerance and functional constipation in pediatric patients.
• To review existing literature and present single-center data on fructose intolerance and constipation.
• To determine if fructose intolerance influences the presentation of constipation in children.

Main Methods:

• A literature review was conducted using PubMed for studies on constipation and fructose ingestion.
• A retrospective chart review of pediatric gastroenterology patients (January 2012-December 2015) was performed.
• The fructose breath hydrogen test (FBHT) was used to identify fructose intolerance in 367 patients.

Main Results:

• Out of 367 patients tested, 208 exhibited fructose intolerance.
• Clinical presentations analyzed included chronic abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, emesis, and nausea.
• Patients with fructose intolerance were statistically less likely to present with chronic constipation, emesis, or nausea.

Conclusions:

• Fructose intolerance may be a contributing factor to symptoms in pediatric functional constipation.
• Identifying and managing fructose intolerance could offer a therapeutic approach for chronic constipation in children.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms linking fructose metabolism and gut motility.