A new review of the scientific evidence suggests that fructose
may not be as bad as some research has suggested, and may even
provide some health benefits. The review – published in Diabetes
Care – analysed 18 studies that assessed the effect of fructose
consumption on blood sugar levels in people with diabetes,
finding that overall fructose significantly improved blood sugar
control. Even more promising, the researchers add is that
benefits were seen without adverse effects on body weight, blood
pressure, uric acid (gout) or cholesterol. "Over the last
decade, there have been connections made between fructose intake
and rates of obesity," said Dr. John Sievenpiper, senior author
of the study. "However, this research suggests that the problem
is likely one of overconsumption, not fructose." The review
analysed data from 209 participants with either type 1 or type 2
diabetes from 18 separate trials. In all trials included in the
review participants were fed diets where fructose was
incorporated or sprinkled on