Is fructose consumption associated with diet quality?

The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the consumption of fructose and the score of the diet quality in healthy adults. This cross-sectional study included 100 healthy adults. A 3-day dietary record and a 24-item fructose frequency questionnaire were used to evaluate the nutritional status and fructose consump-tion of individuals. Anthropometric parameters were measured. The Dietary Quality Index-International (DQI-I) scores were calculated for the evaluation of dietary quality. The mean total DQI-I scores were 58.6 ± 7.7, and a total of 82% of adults had a DQI-I score in the “needs improvement diet” category. Total DQI-I scores of the moderate fructose consumption group were significantly higher than the high fructose consumption group. High fructose consumption was also significantly and negatively associated with the total DQI-I score (r = –0.369, p = 0.000). It was determined that there is a correlation between fructose consumption and diet quality. As fructose consumption increases, diet quality scores tend to decrease. To enhance diet quality in adults, it would be benefi-cial to regularly assess dietary habits and provide nutritional education.