Effect of fructose on the intestinal microbiota: a systematic review of randomized clinical trials Effect of fructose on the intestinal microbiota

• Published in: H.U. revista Vol. 50; pp. 1 - 11
• Main Authors: Silva, Letícia Lourenço da, Lopes, Rayane Rodrigues, Guilarducci, Mariana Julião, Coelho, Olívia Gonçalves Leão, Cândido, Flávia Galvão, Guimarães, Nathalia Sernizon, Gomes, Júnia Maria Geraldo
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 14-05-2024
• ISSN: 0103-3123; 1982-8047
• DOI: 10.34019/1982-8047.2024.v50.42991

Background: Preclinical data suggest that at least part of the harmful effects of excessive fructose consumption are due to alterations in the intestinal microbiota, which may be associated with a number of metabolic diseases, such as diabetes mellitus, obesity, inflammatory bowel disease, metabolic syndrome, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Objective: The aim of this systematic review is to evaluate the effects of fructose consumption on the human intestinal microbiota. Methods: A systematic search was carried out in electronic databases: MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Library without restriction to a year of publication and language. Inclusion criteria were primary articles that evaluated the effect of fructose consumption on the human intestinal microbiota. Results: Five randomized clinical trials were include. It was observed that the composition of the human intestinal microbiota seems to be altered differently in response to fructose consumption at distinct sources and concentrations. Overall, fructose administration increased bacterial profile associated with inflammation, hepatic steatosis, butyrate production, and inhibition of microbial aerobic respiration in the ileum (Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Anaerostipes, and Faecalibacterium). The administration of fructose showed a negative correlation for Firmicutes and a positive correlation for Parabacteroides in relation to total cholesterol and LDL-c. However, studies had great methodological heterogeneity and presented high risk of bias. Conclusion: Fructose administration affects the composition of human intestinal microbiota. More studies are needed to reach definitive conclusions.