Effect of fructose on weight gain

The sugar fructose is being used increasingly in processed and sweetened foods in the UK. Fructose is generally regarded as a healthier form of sugar compared to sucrose (table sugar), essentially on account of the fact that it is said to not cause blood sugar or insulin levels to rise.

Because of this, fructose has traditionally been seen in a favourable light as an added sweetener, and has generally been recommended as the sugar of choice for diabetics (who tend to have raised levels of sugar and insulin in their bloodstreams).

However, studies show that fructose can impair the body’s ability to handle sugar and can reduce the effectiveness of sugar. Furthermore, animal experiments reveal that long term consumption of fructose can lead to elevated levels of both blood sugar and insulin. These effects strongly suggest that added fructose in the diet may increase the risk of weight gain and diabetes.

Other studies show that fructose may push up blood levels of unhealthy blood fats called triglycerides and seems also to have the capacity to raise blood pressure. These effects would be expected to increase the risk of conditions such as heart disease and stroke.

Generally foods rich in fructose such as fruit juice and processed foods sweetened with fructose or ‘high fructose corn syrup’ should be eaten in moderation.

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