The Impact of Fructose Consumption on Human Health: Effects on Obesity, Hyperglycemia, Diabetes, Uric Acid, and Oxidative Stress With a Focus on the Liver

• Published in: Curēus (Palo Alto, CA) Vol. 16; no. 9; p. e70095
• Main Author: Baharuddin, Baharuddin
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Cureus 24.09.2024
• Subjects: Epidemiology/Public Health; Internal Medicine; Nutrition; nafld; type 2 diabetes; excessive fructose intake; insulin resistance; uric acid; human health; obesity; oxidative stress
• ISSN: 2168-8184; 2168-8184
• DOI: 10.7759/cureus.70095

Excessive fructose consumption, primarily through processed foods and beverages, has become a significant public health concern due to its association with various metabolic disorders. This review examines the impact of fructose on human health, focusing on its role in obesity, insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, type 2 diabetes, uric acid production, and oxidative stress. Fructose metabolism, distinct from glucose, predominantly occurs in the liver, where it bypasses normal insulin regulation, leading to increased fat synthesis through de novo lipogenesis. This process contributes to the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and elevates the risk of cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, fructose-induced adenosine triphosphate depletion activates purine degradation, increasing uric acid levels and exacerbating hyperuricemia. The overproduction of reactive oxygen species during fructose metabolism also drives oxidative stress, promoting inflammation and cellular damage. By synthesizing recent findings, this review underscores the importance of regulating fructose intake, implementing public health policies, and adopting lifestyle changes to mitigate these adverse effects.