Forty one pounds. That’s how much high fructose corn syrup Americans consume each year. High fructose corn syrup is used to replace sweeteners in sodas, breads, desserts and other processed foods. Why? American subsidies and tariffs have made corn products a cheaper option. This sweetener which can be found is almost everything you pick up in the grocery store has caused quite a stir. Experts cannot agree on the safety of HFCS which has caused confusion by consumers. Some people have decided to agree with the corn industries “sweet surprise” campaign and insist HFCS is safe. Others maintain it is not only unsafe but a large contributor to obesity in America. It’s hard to get a clear and unbiased answer on the bottom line of safety of HFCS.
What is High Fructose Corn Syrup?
HFCS is 55% fructose and 45% glucose. The primary ingredient is corn syrup which is mainly glucose. It was discovered how to convert corn glucose into fructose but the result was a very sweet high percentage of fructose. So the fructose made from corn glucose is mixed with glucose until the 55/45 blend is achieved. (As per Mayo Clinic website)
Where can I find high fructose corn syrup?
HFCS has been used for decades in sodas, cake mixes, cookies, breads and almost all processed foods. The manufactures of HFCS say the caloric intake of HFCS is the same as cane sugar and is equal in sweetness.
Other than cost are there other benefits to using HFCS in foods?
One being that it acts as a preservative and two it dissolves easily in liquid. (as per the Almighty Dad website) However the Sweet Surprise website says that HFCS enhances flavors, retains moisture in cereals and energy bars, and maintains a consistent flavor in juices and sodas.
Are there dangers to consuming HFCS?
This is where the conflict begins as experts seem not to be able to agree. On one hand they say that HFCS is just as natural as sugar and contains the same amount of calories as regular sugar. Basically this is simply a less expensive option that poses no more harm or risk than regular sugar. There has been no evidence presented to show that HFCS is more dangerous than any other sweetener on the market.
On the other hand some claim that consuming HFCS can lead to insulin resistance, diabetes has increased since HFCS has been added to foods and drinks, and causes obesity. Beverages that contain HFCS have a damaging reaction on cells and tissue resulting in diabetes. It has been noted that HFCS contains small levels of mercury.
Confused?
The most important thing is moderation. Watch your food labels and make the proper choices for you and your family. Since HFCS in liquid has been shown to contribute to obesity more so than in foods, you may want to limit your consumption of sodas and juices which contain HFCS. So far the jury is still out and knowing which studies to trust and which not to remains a mystery. Personally, I buy very little which contains HFCS. Do you make a habit of checking labels for high fructose corn syrup?
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