High fructose diets could cause immune system damage

Recent research has indicated that consuming a diet high in sugar fructose might hamper the proper functioning of peoples' immune systems, Report informs, citing Nature.

Fructose is commonly found in sugary drinks, sweets, and processed foods and widely used in food production. It is associated with obesity, type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and its intake substantially throughout the developed world. However, understanding the impact of fructose on the immune system of people who consume it at high levels has been limited until now.

The new study published today [22 February] in the journal Nature Communications shows that fructose causes the immune system to become inflamed. That process produces more reactive molecules associated with inflammation. Inflammation of this kind can damage cells and tissues and contribute to organs and body systems not working as they should and could lead to disease.

The research also brings a deeper understanding of how fructose could be linked to diabetes and obesity - as low-level inflammation is often associated with obesity. It also builds on the growing body of evidence available to public health policymakers about the damaging effects of consuming high levels of fructose.

Dr. Nick Jones, of Swansea University's Medical School, said:

"Research into different components of our diet can help us understand what might contribute to inflammation and disease and what could be best harnessed to improve health and wellbeing."

Dr. Emma Vincent in the Bristol Medical School: Populational Health Sciences (PHS) added: "Our study is exciting because it takes us a step further towards understanding why some diets can lead to ill health."