A Fructose Free Barbecue!

Hello! I found this great article from '09 about bbq's. I admit they are an issue. YOu'd think- ok hotdogs, burgers, easy! But you need the right buns, no ketchup (or just a little) no tomato of course...I always bring Nathan a bag of his own stuff. Good luck on your bbq's!

Lauren Schaffer

Jacksonville Fructose-Free Food Examiner

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Celebrate your independence from fructose 

It's Independence Day again, and time for the annual neighborhood barbecue! This year take a closer look at those cookout dishes and you won't be hoping the fireworks cover the sounds of your flatulence.

Burgers and hot dogs are great choices for fructose-free living, but don't think you're being healthier by trying tofu burgers. Tofu is made from soy, and soy is a fructan - a carbohydrate that can break down into fructose.

Buns and breads can also be a problem area. Avoid whole wheat buns, even though they're advertised as being healthier and containing more whole grains and fiber which is good for you. Wheat is also a fructan, and can aggravate your fructose intolerance symptoms.

Watch your condiments too! Mustard is the safest condiment. Ketchup is the worst possible thing to eat for the fructose intolerant; not only does it contain high fructose corn syrup, but tomatoes have one of the highest fructose contents of the fruits and vegetables. So don't put tomatoes on your burger either, avoid the relish, lettuce, onions and other vegetable toppings too.

Mayonnaise is another condiment usually made with HFCS. Avoid pasta and potato salads, even if they're made with Miracle Whip instead. If you're a big potato salad fan, you should take charge of bringing it to the cookout. Check out this recipe for homemade mayonnaise that is fructose free.

Don't forget dessert! People fight over who gets to bring what and whose recipe is the best. Those of you with FM can enjoy most homemade desserts as long as you're sure that the cook didn't burn the first batch and substitute the store bought brand to pass off as a homemade recipe. Jell-O is the safest desert, don't eat the kinds with fruit pieces and watch the whipped cream, some varieties do contain HFCS, especially Cool Whip brand.

As always, if you're not sure - don't eat it. Often times your best bet is to make your favorites and bring them. Celebrate the independence of our nation and your independence from fructose. Happy Fourth of July!