Fructosamine is found in the plasma of both normal and diabetic individuals. “Fructosamine” is the term used to describe proteins that have been glycated (ie, are derivatives of the nonenzymatic reaction product of glucose and albumin). It has been advocated as an alternative test to hemoglobin A1c for the monitoring of long-term diabetic control. Fructosamine and hemoglobin A1c do not measure exactly the same thing, since fructosamine has a shorter half-life and appears to be more sensitive to short-term variations in glucose levels; however, this is not necessarily a disadvantage. Fructosamine is clearly superior in patients with abnormal hemoglobins because of the interference of abnormal hemoglobins in the anion-exchange chromatography methods for Hb A1c. Published reference interval for apparently healthy subjects between age 20 and 60 is 205−285 μmol/L and in a poorly-controlled diabetic population is 228−563 μmol/L with a mean of 396 μmol/L.

Emerging research seems to show a relationship between the rise in metabolic diseases and the increased consumption of fructose—particularly consumption of non-natural sources of fructose found in sugar-sweetened beverages and other processed foods.

Elevated fructose levels should be further investigated. Dietary fructose intake should be determined, modified if excessive, and monitored for metabolic changes.

Humans have a limited ability to metabolize fructose (fruit sugar). Fructose is metabolized differently from other sugars. A fructose load leads to accumulation of fructose-1-phosphate in cells which may partially deplete intracellular ATP levels in susceptible individuals.

Since fructose intolerance is a cellular event, rather than a single nutrient deficiency, symptoms may vary widely among persons. Preliminary evidence suggests clinical symptoms of fructose intolerance may include fatigue, headaches, weakness, dizziness, behavioral changes, and depressed immune function. Medical literature suggests that certain individuals with fructose intolerance may show hypertriglyceridemia, elevation of uric acid, and interference with copper metabolism.

Dietary sources of fructose are numerous; however, an excess intake of fructose should be avoided, rather than absolute removal of dietary fructose. In this manner, whole foods containing fructose (fruits and some vegetables) may be consumed, in order to benefit from their overall nutritional value.

Foods very rich in fructose include table sugar (sucrose), high fructose corn syrup, corn syrup, fruit juice concentrates and a large list of prepared foods containing sucrose and/or corn syrup. Reduction of excess dietary fructose intake by avoidance of foods very rich in fructose is suggested when fructose intolerance is exhibited.

The FT3 (Free Triiodothyronine) to Reverse T3 (rT3) ratio is a crucial biomarker for assessing thyroid function, particularly in the context of thyroid hormone metabolism and the body’s overall metabolic state. Triiodothyronine (T3) is the active form of thyroid hormone, essential for regulating metabolism, energy production, and numerous physiological processes. In contrast, Reverse T3 (rT3) is an inactive form produced when the body converts thyroxine (T4) into a metabolically inactive state. The FT3 to rT3 ratio provides insight into how effectively the body is converting T4 into its active form (T3) versus its inactive form (rT3), serving as an indicator of various health conditions and metabolic states.

Fumarate (together with Succinate and Malate) is used in the body’s metabolic pathway that generates cellular energy – the Citric Acid Cycle.

Fumarate (together with Succinate and Malate) is used in the body’s metabolic pathway that generates cellular energy – the Citric Acid Cycle. This cycle critically supports organ maintenance and neurological function. Fumarate is also a product of the urea cycle. Much like vitamin D, fumaric acid is formed by the body, in the skin, during exposure to sunlight.

Fumarate (together with Succinate and Malate) is used in the body’s metabolic pathway that generates cellular energy – the Citric Acid Cycle.

Fumaric acid, measured on the Organic Acids Test (OAT), is a key marker of your body’s energy production and detoxification pathways. It plays a vital role in the Citric Acid Cycle, which generates cellular energy, and the urea cycle, which eliminates excess nitrogen. Balanced levels support organ function, brain health, and overall vitality, while imbalances may indicate issues like mitochondrial dysfunction, nutrient deficiencies, or oxidative stress. Fumaric acid is also influenced by sunlight exposure, much like vitamin D. Abnormal levels can guide interventions such as optimizing nutrient intake, improving energy metabolism, and addressing underlying health concerns.

Fumarate (together with Succinate and Malate) is used in the body’s metabolic pathway that generates cellular energy – the Citric Acid Cycle.

Fumarate (together with Succinate and Malate) is used in the body’s metabolic pathway that generates cellular energy – the Citric Acid Cycle.

Fumarate (together with Succinate and Malate) is used in the body’s metabolic pathway that generates cellular energy – the Citric Acid Cycle.

Fumarate (together with Succinate and Malate) is used in the body’s metabolic pathway that generates cellular energy – the Citric Acid Cycle.

Fumarate (together with Succinate and Malate) is used in the body’s metabolic pathway that generates cellular energy – the Citric Acid Cycle.

Fumonisin B1 (FB1) is a type of mycotoxin produced by certain species of Fusarium, a group of molds that commonly contaminate crops like corn, maize, and other grains. Fumonisins, particularly FB1, are among the most toxic members of this group. When consumed by humans or animals through contaminated food, these toxins can pose various health risks.

Fumonisin B1 (FB1) is a type of mycotoxin produced by certain species of Fusarium, a group of molds that commonly contaminate crops like corn, maize, and other grains. Fumonisins, particularly FB1, are among the most toxic members of this group. When consumed by humans or animals through contaminated food, these toxins can pose various health risks.

Fusarium is one of the most prevalent fungi associated with contamination of corn and other agricultural products throughout the world.

Many different fumonisins have so far been reported, and they have been grouped into four main categories (A, B, C, and P).

The most abundant of the fumonisins is fumonisin B1 (FB1).

They can also be found in moisture-damaged buildings, and, therefore, exposure of humans to Fusarium mycotoxins including FB1 may take place.

FB1 bears a clear structural similarity to the cellular sphingolipids, and this similarity has been shown to disturb the metabolism of sphingolipids by inhibiting a key enzyme in sphingolipid biosynthesis.

FB1 is neurotoxic, hepatotoxic, and nephrotoxic in animals, and it has been classified as a possible carcinogen to humans. The cellular mechanisms behind FB1-induced toxicity include the induction of oxidative stress, apoptosis, and cytotoxicity, as well as alterations in cytokine expression.

References:

Peraica M, Radic B, Lucic A, Pavlovic M. Toxic effects of mycotoxins in humans. Bull World Health Organ. 1999;77(9):754-66. PMID: 10534900; PMCID: PMC2557730. [L]

Fumonisin B2 is a mycotoxin produced by Fusarium growing on moldy corn (maize) grain. FB2 and Fumonisin B3 (FB3) occur in lower concentrations than FB1. FB1 and FB2 are approximately equal in structure and toxicity but naturally occur in a ratio of about 3: 1 for FB1/FB2, thus has less toxicity than FB1.

Fumonisin B3 (FB3), a less commonly studied but significant mycotoxin, is an important marker in Total Tox Burden panels, reflecting potential exposure to toxins produced by Fusarium species, predominantly found in maize and its by-products. Structurally, FB3 is similar to other fumonisins like B1 and B2, but it is often present at lower concentrations in contaminated foods. Its inclusion in tox burden assessments is crucial due to its potential health implications. Although FB3's toxicity is generally considered to be lower than that of fumonisin B1, it still poses health risks, particularly hepatotoxic and nephrotoxic effects, and it may play a role in esophageal cancer and neural tube defects.

Fungitell®, an FDA cleared and CE marked diagnostic test, is used for the detection of (1→3)-β-D-Glucan, which is frequently associated with the presence of fungal pathogens. The majority of these are Candida and Aspergillus species.