Fructose

Fructose is a type of simple sugar that makes up 50% of table sugar (sucrose). Table sugar also consists of glucose, which is the main energy source for human body’s cells. Fructose is a monosaccharide and bonded with glucose, another monosaccharide, forms sucrose, or table sugar.

However, fructose needs to be converted into glucose by the liver before it can be used by the body. Fructose is absorbed somewhat more slowly from the intestines and makes its way to the liver without causing the pancreas to release insulin.

Unlike glucose, fructose causes a low rise in blood sugar levels. Therefore, some health professionals recommend fructose as a “safe” sweetener for people with type 2 diabetes.

Fructose is a simple sugar. Fructose occurs naturally in berries and fruits, such as cherries, raisins and apples, and can make up 5–8% of their weight. Fructose comprises about 40% of honey.

Researchers found excess amounts of dietary fructose seemed to cause inflammation that could lead to insulin resistance (Nutrients. 2017 Apr; 9(4): 405).

Insulin resistance means glucose can build up in the blood, causing a range of health problems, including type 2 diabetes.
Fructose