Fructose malabsorption is (surprisingly) an inability to absorb fructose properly. The fructose that is not absorbed causes an overgrowth of intestinal bacteria resulting in abdominal bloating, excess wind, abdominal pain, nausea, altered bowel habits and other gastrointestinal symptoms. Fructose malabsorption is diagnosed by a hydrogen or methane breath-test carried out by a gastroenterologist.
In order to avoid symptoms those with fructose malabsorption are required to follow a Low FODMAP (Fermentable Oligosaccharides Disaccharides Monosaccharides And Polylols) Diet. This diet is low in fructose but also low in other sugars that have been found to be problematic to fructose malabsorbers. The diet is administered by a dietician and varies from person to person depending on the severity of their fructose malabsorption and the types of sugars they are sensitive to.
Some further resources:
"Absorbing the Facts", The Age, June 21, 2011
Sue Shepherd & Peter Gibson (2010) Food Intolerance Management Plan (Penguin Viking)
Some further resources:
