What is sucrose?

How is sucrose broken down?

Sucrose is classified as a disaccharide because it contains two monosaccharides—glucose and fructose. This structure distinguishes it from other sugars like glucose (a monosaccharide) and lactose (another disaccharide). When consumed, sucrose sugar is broken down by enzymes in the digestive system into its constituent sugars, which are then absorbed into the bloodstream to provide energy. Sucrose metabolizes quickly, offering an almost immediate source of energy, but it lacks fiber and other nutrients found in naturally occurring sugars in fruits and vegetables.

What are foods high in sucrose?

Common sources include:

• Candies and desserts
• Sodas and sugary drinks
• Baked goods like cakes and cookies
• Ice cream and other frozen treats
• Canned fruits and sweetened yogurts

Sucrose is also hidden in items such as condiments, salad dressings, and even savory sauces. Checking ingredient labels for terms like “sucrose,” “sugar,” or “syrup” can help identify sources of added sugars.

What is sucrose intolerance?

Causes and symptoms
Sucrose intolerance arises when the body lacks enough digestive enzymes to digest sucrose properly (1). This can lead to uncomfortable symptoms such as:

• Bloating and gas
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea

It’s essential to differentiate sucrose intolerance from other sugar intolerances, like lactose intolerance, which involves different digestive enzymes and affects the breakdown of other types of sugar.

How do i manage Sucrose intolerance?

Managing symptoms typically involves limiting or avoiding high-sucrose foods. Whole fruits, while containing sucrose, often provide fiber, which may help slow sugar absorption. Processed foods with high sucrose content are best minimized. If you don’t want to change your diet, you also can use digestive enzyme supplements

What enzyme supplements help with sucrose intolerance?

Invertase is an enzyme that assists in breaking down sucrose. Enzyme supplements with invertase can help to digest sucrose, this can help reduce symptoms when taken before consuming sucrose-rich foods (3). Starchway is an example of a product that contains invertase. Starchways also assists in the digestion of starches, such as corn starch*

If you suspect a food intolerance you can always contact one of our specialized dietitians for free or do our supplement advisort test below for more insights.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.