Fructose alters immune cells

[Wishful]

https://newatlas.com/fructose-immune-cells/

"Researchers from the Department of Nutritional Sciences at the University of Vienna have shown how when fructose comes into contact with free-roaming immune cells (monocytes) in the blood, they become far more sensitive and reactive."

Maybe those of us who developed ME without an obvious cause (viral infection) might have triggered on normal levels of bacterial toxins due to immune cells being hypersensitized from fructose. Just a thought. I expect plenty of people who developed ME without an obvious cause didn't chug down lots of fructose daily. I can't recall people here reporting that fructose makes their ME worse. Oh well, a hypothesis that can be immediately shot down is still a useful exercise. Brains need exercise too.

 

[linusbert]

now thats interesting, could have a relationship with allergies and mcas.

fructose by itself impairs metabolism pretty fast and causes mitochondrial dysfunction over time.

Spoiler

Fructose and Its Effects on Metabolism and Mitochondrial Function

1. Metabolic Impact of Fructose​

Fructose, when consumed in excess—especially in isolated form (e.g., high-fructose corn syrup)—has been shown to:

• Bypass key regulatory steps in glycolysis (notably phosphofructokinase), which can lead to unregulated substrate flow toward lipogenesis.
• Increase hepatic de novo lipogenesis, contributing to insulin resistance, hepatic steatosis, and metabolic syndrome.
• Elevate uric acid production, which can impair endothelial function and insulin signaling.

However, fructose does not immediately “block metabolism” in a general sense. The effect is more specific and gradual, involving dysregulation in liver energy balance and insulin sensitivity over time.

2. Mitochondrial Dysfunction​

Evidence from both animal models and in vitro studies suggests:

• High fructose intake can lead to oxidative stress via mitochondrial ROS generation.
• It impairs mitochondrial biogenesis and function, particularly in the liver.
• Chronic intake can result in reduced ATP production and altered mitochondrial enzyme expression, affecting energy homeostasis.

The dysfunction is not instant, but emerges with prolonged or high-dose exposure, especially in the context of poor diet or metabolic stress.

Conclusion​

Fructose does not "block" metabolism instantly, but chronic excessive intake—especially without accompanying glucose or fiber—can contribute to metabolic derangement and mitochondrial impairment, particularly in the liver. The severity and speed depend on dose, duration, and overall dietary context.