Embargoed for release until: Monday, October 22, 2001
Malaika Hilliard 202/973-5896 [email protected]
Sharon Burns-Pavlovsky 202/973-2934[email protected]
Fructose Intolerance a Common Cause Of Unexplained GI Disorder SymptomsDietary changes may provide symptomatic relief
LAS VEGAS (Oct 22, 2001) -- Fructose, the simple sugar found in honey and many fruits, may play an important role in the onset of common, and often unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms, according to research presented today at the 66th Annual Scientific Meeting of the American College of Gastroenterology. Fructose intolerance (an inability to digest fructose) may explain some symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a disorder affecting about 10 percent of Americans and the leading cause of referral to a gastroenterologist. IBS is characterized by abdominal discomfort, bloating, and change in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea).
In a prospective study of GI clinic patients, Young K. Choi, M.D., and colleagues from the University of Iowa performed fructose breath tests on 219 individuals with unexplained gas, bloating, and pain. The subjects also filled out a questionnaire and were assessed for IBS. After the patients were given fructose, the researchers collected breath samples. The analysis revealed the abnormal presence of hydrogen or methane gas in 78 percent of the patients. These gases are not present in breath unless fructose is not digested normally by the patient. During this fructose challenge, more than half (58 percent) reproduced their GI symptoms; 82 percent also were found to meet criteria for IBS.
A Common Problem"Fructose intolerance appears to be a common problem in patients with otherwise unexplained GI symptoms," said Choi, "and many of these people meet standardized diagnostic criteria for IBS.
"While lactose intolerance is well-recognized, the role of fructose intolerance has not yet been defined in the pathogenesis of gastrointestinal disorders," he added. "Future research will be needed to determine the precise nature of this relationship. Until then, it is important for clinicians to recognize this problem because institution of a low fructose diet may provide symptomatic relief for some patients."
The American College of Gastroenterology was formed in 1932 to advance the scientific study and medical treatment of disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. The College promotes the highest standards in medical education and is guided by its commitment to meeting the needs of clinical gastroenterology practitioners. Consumers can get more information on GI diseases through the following ACG-sponsored programs:
-- 1-800-978-7666 (free brochures on common GI disorders, including ulcer, colon cancer, gallstones and liver disease)-- 1-800-HRT-BURN (free brochure and video on heartburn and GERD)-- www.acg.gi.org (ACG's Web site)
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