Eating habit dangerous for immunity revealed

Scientists have found that consuming high doses of fructose can interfere with the proper functioning of the immune system, Report informs, referring to the peer-reviewed journal Nature.

Experts from the Swansea University, the University of Bristol, and the Francis Crick Institute in London analyzed the effects of fructose on mice. It turned out that this compound reprograms cellular metabolic pathways, promoting glutaminolysis and oxidative metabolism - processes whose activation leads to an increase in the level of inflammatory cytokines.

The researchers concluded that excessive consumption of fructose causes inflammatory reactions of the immune system: they, in turn, provoke damage to cells and tissues, as well as disrupt the functioning of organs and body systems.

Scientists remind that fructose is commonly found in sugary drinks, sweets, and convenience foods and is widely used in food production. It increases the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.