Sometime ago, scientists discovered a definite link between fructose and leptin resistance. Nevertheless, new studies show that body weight is an even more powerful factor not only in developing leptin resistance, but also in how your body uses fructose. And rather shockingly, your fruit consumption may push you over the sensitive limit.

Fructose: The Hidden Sugar

Fructose is commonly referred to as the “hidden sugar” because it is found in a variety of foods and beverages. Processed foods and some healthy foods, like breads, cereals, and yoghurt, contain high fructose corn syrup. Even fruit contains fructose in its natural form. Therefore, most individuals have no idea how much fructose they are consuming. There are many health risks associated with high fructose intake including heart disease, cancer, and as many as 78 other conditions and diseases. But, leptin resistance and obesity serve as fructose’s lethal methods in causing these risks.

Leptin Resistance and Obesity—Are you at risk?

Leptin, a hormone produced by fat cells, controls how fast or slow your metabolism uses energy along with its partner, insulin. If you become leptin resistant this means your brain cannot determine when you are hungry or full. Therefore, you habitually overeat and become overweight or obese. In addition to increased appetite and weight gain, fructose actually inhibits your body from burning fat. This inability to burn fat causes severe fat storage throughout the body, which further increases your chance of developing obesity.

Obesity and Fructose: A slippery slope

The real danger with fructose and obesity lies in the fact that there is no mechanism in place within your body for regulating fructose. In other words, if you are obese, the more fructose you consume the more your body absorbs it, uses it for energy in place of fat and carbohydrates, and converts it to more fat. On the other hand, thin individuals consistently burn fat and carbohydrates for energy although fructose is available. Consequently, eating fruits or fruit juices high in fructose can further contribute to obesity and make it virtually impossible for you to lose weight. Fruits rich in fructose include pears, plums, and red apples.

How you can avoid Leptin Resistance and Obesity

• Watch your uric acid level

Uric acid is a by-product of the body metabolising fructose. So, the more fructose you burn, the higher your uric acid level will be—increasing your risk of diabetes, hypertension, and obesity.

• Always read the label

Before eating any food product, take some time to read the label and understand just how much sugar (or fructose) you are about to consume.

• Stay away from processed foods

Processed foods are the primary culprit for containing high fructose corn syrup, so try to steer clear of them all together.

• Closely monitor your fruit intake

Pay attention to how often you eat fruit as well as what type of fruit you eat. Preferably, eat fruits low in fructose, such as berries, grapefruit, kiwi, lemons, and limes.

• Make your weight a priority

Most people do not worry about their weight until they become overweight. Instead, you should make every effort to maintain a healthy body weight by eating raw, whole foods and exercising regularly.

Following these tips will protect you from the harmful effects of fructose while making leptin resistance the least of your worries. And for additional support, you can always, ‘Ask a Naturopath’ right here at Mr Vitamins.