Fructose

Simple sugar (monosaccharide) naturally present in fruits, honey and some vegetables. Unlike glucose, fructose is metabolised almost exclusively by the liver, without significantly stimulating insulin or leptin. In moderate amounts in whole fruits, it is accompanied by fibre, polyphenols and water that slow its absorption. However, concentrated added fructose in processed foods can contribute to hepatic steatosis and insulin resistance when consumed excessively.