4 Reasons Why You Should Limit Fructose

The average American consumes almost a half a pound of sugar a day, which is a strong contributing factor as to why Americans are overweight.

The average American woman weighs about as much today as the average American man did in the early 1960s, which is about 162 pounds.

Weight gain is associated with diabetes, heart disease, cancer and stroke.

I recommend to my patients to try to keep their total sugar intake to less than 25 grams of sugar per day. That equals about 4 teaspoons of sugar. If you have diabetes, or pre-diabetes, you should consult your physician, but your sugar consumption should be about half that amount.

Here are 4 reasons from "Food Matters" to reduce your sugar consumption:

1. Fructose for IBS - Dr Sue Shepherd, who pioneered the low FODMAPs Diet, identified certain natural sugars (called ‘FODMAPs’) that may cause symptoms of IBS. Fructose is classified as one of these FODMAPs,
so some people with IBS may find that moderating their intake of high-fructose fruit relieves their symptoms. However, most people with IBS can still tolerate lower FODMAP fruit.

2. Fructose for Autoimmune Disease - Some evidence has emerged that excess sugar and fructose may contribute to poorer gut health and ultimately, Leaky Gut Syndrome. Tiny ‘leaks’ in the gut may allow toxins to seep into the bloodstream and trigger autoimmune conditions. Therefore, there may be a benefit to moderating fructose intake in the presence of autoimmune disease.

3. Fructose For Candida - Many natural health experts agree that candida overgrowth may be worsened by a high sugar diet. Unfortunately, candida doesn’t distinguish fructose from other sugars and will use all forms as a food source to thrive and multiply. If you have chronic issues with candida, it may be beneficial to minimize your sugar intake (including fructose) whilst pursuing other holistic treatment options. Please note that this is a short term measure and that moderate fruit intake can usually be resumed once the candida
infection is resolved.

4. Fruit For Dental Decay - Dental caries are all too common and diet is one known contributing factor. The following high-fructose foods may contribute to tooth decay:
a. Fruit juices are acidic and may erode enamel with regular consumption
b. Dried fruit and bananas ‘stick’ to teeth and are food for the bacteria that cause decay
c. Canned fruits in sugar syrup also provide an environment for dental bacteria to thrive in

Fresh fruit best for your teeth! Limit juice, dried fruit, jellies and jams.

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