Diagnosing and Treating Intolerance to Carbohydrates in Children

Nutrients. 2016 Mar 10;8(3):157. doi: 10.3390/nu8030157.

Abstract

Intolerance to carbohydrates is relatively common in childhood, but still poorly recognized and managed. Over recent years it has come to the forefront because of progresses in our knowledge on the mechanisms and treatment of these conditions. Children with intolerance to carbohydrates often present with unexplained signs and symptoms. Here, we examine the most up-to-date research on these intolerances, discuss controversies relating to the diagnostic approach, including the role of molecular analysis, and provide new insights into modern management in the pediatric age, including the most recent evidence for correct dietary treatment.

Keywords: FODMAPs intolerance; breath test; fructose malabsorption; glucose-galactose malabsorption; lactose intolerance; molecular analysis; sorbitol intolerance; sucrase-isomaltase deficiency; trehalose intolerance.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Age Factors
  • Carbohydrate Metabolism, Inborn Errors / diagnosis*
  • Carbohydrate Metabolism, Inborn Errors / diet therapy*
  • Carbohydrate Metabolism, Inborn Errors / epidemiology
  • Celiac Disease / diagnosis*
  • Celiac Disease / diet therapy*
  • Celiac Disease / epidemiology
  • Child
  • Diet, Carbohydrate-Restricted*
  • Dietary Carbohydrates / adverse effects*
  • Food Hypersensitivity / diagnosis*
  • Food Hypersensitivity / diet therapy*
  • Food Hypersensitivity / epidemiology
  • Humans
  • Lactose Intolerance / diagnosis
  • Lactose Intolerance / diet therapy
  • Predictive Value of Tests
  • Risk Factors
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Dietary Carbohydrates