Obese people who consume high amounts of fructose - simple sugar - may have high levels of uric acid, which impairs liver function, the researchers say.
High uric acid, or hyperuricemia, is associated with lower levels of liver adenosine triphosphate (ATP), a compound involved in the transfer of energy between cells, scientists at the Duke University Medical Center explained.
Researchers who published their new report in the journal Hepatology noted that liver energy depletion can lead to liver damage in people with a metabolic condition known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, as well as in people at risk for this disease. They emphasized that the public should be aware of the risks associated with a fructose-rich diet.
Liver ATP and uric acid levels were evaluated in more than 100 patients who participated in the study. Researchers measured the difference in ATP content in patients with low fructose intake (less than 15 grams per day) and high (more than 15 g per day).
It was noted that participants with high uric acid levels caused by high fructose intake had lower ATP levels in the liver.
"Our results show that increasing dietary fructose intake can worsen the energy balance of the liver. But new research is needed to determine the clinical consequences of these results."
Fructose is a simple sugar found in fruits and vegetables. In combination with glucose, it is used to produce high fructose corn syrup, which is used as a sweetener in many processed foods. Now we know that when consuming fructose, all people, both sick and healthy, need to exercise moderation, as in everything else.
