Fructose

Fructose is a simple sugar found naturally in fruits, honey, and vegetables. Makes up 50% of table sugar (sucrose) and ~55% of high-fructose corn syrup. The negative effects of fructose are DOSE and CONTEXT dependent - moderate intake from whole foods is not problematic, but excessive intake from added sugars (especially in hypercaloric diets) is linked to NAFLD, metabolic syndrome, elevated triglycerides, and insulin resistance. Fructose is metabolized primarily in the liver (unlike glucose). Not recommended as a supplement; relevant for understanding dietary sugar impact.

Quick Answer

What it is

Fructose is a simple sugar found naturally in fruits, honey, and vegetables. Makes up 50% of table sugar (sucrose) and ~55% of high-fructose corn syrup.

Key findings

  • Grade C: Triglycerides (Metabolic Health)
  • Grade C: Hepatic Fat Content
  • Grade C: Uric Acid (Metabolic Health)

Safety

No specific caution or interaction language was detected in the current summary/outcome notes.

ℹ️ Quick Facts: Fructose

Quick Facts: Fructose

  • Best Evidence:Grade C
  • Conditions Studied:2
  • Research Outcomes:5
  • Key Effect:Metabolic Health
Outcomes by grade:
A0
B0
C4
D1
2 conditions · 5 outcomes

Detailed Outcomes

|
C
Triglycerides
High fructose intake increases blood triglycerides, especially in hypercaloric conditions
15 studies
moderateImproves
C
Uric Acid
Fructose metabolism increases uric acid production
8 studies
moderateImproves
C
Hepatic Fat Content
Excessive fructose intake associated with increased liver fat accumulation
10 studies
moderateWorsens
C
Endurance Performance
Fructose + glucose combination may improve endurance vs glucose alone (different absorption pathways)
5 studies
smallImproves
D
Body Weight
Isocaloric exchange of fructose for other carbs does not cause weight gain; hypercaloric intake does
20 studies
small

Evidence by Condition

Best grade per condition (each condition may have multiple outcomes)

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