Fructose malabsorption is a common yet often misunderstood cause of gastrointestinal symptoms, frequently overlapping with irritable bowel syndrome and other disorders of gut–brain interaction.

This session will review the underlying mechanisms of fructose malabsorption, typical symptom patterns and current diagnostic approaches, including when testing is appropriate. A key focus will be differentiating fructose malabsorption from hereditary fructose intolerance, a rare but serious genetic condition requiring strict lifelong fructose avoidance.

Attendees will gain practical, evidence-based nutrition strategies for assessing and managing fructose malabsorption, with an emphasis on individualized care, food reintroduction, and minimizing unnecessary dietary restriction. This session is designed to support clinicians in providing accurate diagnosis, patient-centered education, and sustainable dietary guidance.