Fructose consumption correlates with triglyceride-glucose index and glycemic status in healthy adults

Abstract

Background and aims: The aim of this study was to evaluate the glycemic parameters, lipid profiles, uric acid levels, and triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index of individuals who consume different amounts of fructose. Additionally, the relationship between the TyG index and the homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) values was investigated. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on healthy adults aged between 18 and 55 who applied to a university hospital in Istanbul, Turkey. Demographic characteristics and food consumption were recorded using the face-to-face interview method. Participants were divided into two groups according to their fructose consumption (≤50 g/day: moderate; >50 g/day: high). The glycemic parameters, lipid profiles, and uric acid levels were measured and TyG index was calculated. Results: Fructose consumption of >50 g/day was reported by 25% of the participants. There was no relationship between lipid profile, uric acid, and fructose consumption. The fasting blood glucose (FBG), fasting insulin, HOMA-IR, and TyG index values in the moderate fructose consumption group were significantly lower than those for the high fructose consumption group (P < 0.05). The TyG index was associated with fructose consumption and HOMA-IR (P < 0.05). High fructose consumers exhibited FBG and HOMA-IR levels 1.18 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] = 1.01–1.37) and 1.42 (95% CI = 1.09–1.84) times higher than those for the moderate fructose consumers (P < 0.05). Conclusions: The results of this study confirmed that high fructose consumption negatively affects glycemic status in healthy adults. Additionally, this study revealed that there is a significant association between daily fructose consumption and TyG index.