The utilization of selected minerals when sugars were supplemented to basal diets was investigated in two separate, laboratory-controlled human feeding studies. Fructose-fed subjects had higher fecal excretions of iron and magnesium than did subjects fed sucrose. Apparent iron, magnesium, calcium, and zinc balances tended to be less positive during the fructose feeding period as compared to balances during the sucrose feeding period. Conversely, high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) did not affect the mineral balances when compared to sucrose feeding. Subjects fed fructose experienced diarrhea which possibly decreased absorption of minerals and thus increased fecal mineral losses. No such adverse effects were noticed when HFCS was fed.