How Fructose Increases Inflammation And Harms Immunity
Recent research from the University of Vienna strikes another blow against fructose, a simple sugar present in many processed foods and beverages. It found that even short-term fructose consumption can heighten inflammation by changing how immune cells respond to bacterial toxins. In two randomized studies, healthy adults who consumed fructose-sweetened drinks showed increased levels of Toll-like receptor 2 on monocytes, which are immune cells that circulate in the blood. This made the cells more sensitive to bacterial toxins and triggered higher release of certain inflammatory molecules.
The findings suggest that fructose, unlike glucose, can prime the immune system toward stronger, potentially harmful inflammatory responses. Researchers warn that long-term high fructose intake may further elevate infection risk, especially in people with metabolic conditions such as type 2 diabetes or fatty liver disease.
Try this recipe today: Immunity Soup
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