A common piece of health advice is to eat plenty of fruit, but a medical expert has issued a warning that popular choices like apples, strawberries, and pears can trigger unpleasant symptoms for some individuals.
Dr Donald Grant, a GP and Senior Clinical Advisor at The Independent Pharmacy, has highlighted that difficulties in digesting fructose, a natural sugar in fruit, can lead to significant discomfort.
Understanding Fructose Malabsorption and Allergic Reactions
Dr Grant explained that it is "not uncommon" for people to struggle to metabolise fructose. This can result in symptoms such as bloating, increased flatulence, and even diarrhoea. For those affected, he recommends avoiding fruits with high fructose content, specifically naming apples, pears, and mangoes.
Beyond digestion issues, the GP also warned that fruits can provoke allergic responses. "While reactions towards certain foods vary from person to person, it is not uncommon to experience a reaction to fruit, including apples," he stated.
The Risk of Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS)
A specific condition linked to fruit consumption is Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS). Apples are cited as one of the most common triggers for OAS. This occurs when the immune system mistakes proteins in the fruit for similar proteins found in pollen, leading to an allergic reaction.
Symptoms of OAS typically include swelling around the lips, mouth, and tongue. Dr Grant noted that other fruits like pears, plums, and cherries are also frequent causes of this syndrome.
Which Fruits Are Most Likely to Cause a Problem?
The list of fruits that can cause common reactions extends beyond those triggering OAS. Strawberries, kiwis, and avocados are among the fruits people most commonly have allergic reactions to.
As with other allergies, the body's response can range from hives and nausea to the severe, life-threatening reaction of anaphylaxis.
For those suffering from diarrhoea as a result of fruit consumption, Dr Grant mentioned that products like Dioralyte Sachets can be a useful treatment to replace lost fluids and restore hydration.
Seeking Professional Medical Advice
Dr Grant emphasised that developing an intolerance or allergy to food, including fruit, can happen at any stage in life. This can make pinpointing the cause of symptoms challenging.
He strongly advises anyone with concerns to have an open discussion with their licensed GP to determine the best course of action, which may include avoiding certain foods in the future.
It is important to note that the NHS continues to recommend eating at least five portions of a variety of fruit and vegetables daily as part of a healthy, balanced diet for the general population.
