Incomplete intestinal absorption of fructose

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Gastroenterology
• Nutritional Science
• Human Physiology

Background:

• Fructose malabsorption is a common issue, potentially leading to gastrointestinal symptoms.
• Understanding sugar absorption mechanisms in children is crucial for dietary recommendations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate D-fructose absorption in children using breath hydrogen measurements.
• To determine the impact of co-ingested glucose and galactose on fructose absorption.

Main Methods:

• Breath hydrogen analysis after oral D-fructose (2 g/kg) ingestion in 31 children.
• Comparative tests with fructose combined with glucose or galactose in a subset of children.

Main Results:

• 71% of children exhibited incomplete fructose absorption, indicated by elevated breath hydrogen levels.
• Abdominal symptoms were reported by 4 children with incomplete absorption.
• Co-ingestion of glucose or galactose significantly reduced breath hydrogen increases compared to fructose alone.

Conclusions:

• Children possess a limited capacity for intestinal D-fructose absorption.
• Glucose and galactose may enhance fructose absorption, possibly by activating the fructose transporter.
• High fructose-to-glucose ratios, as found in apple juice, may trigger symptoms in susceptible children.