High-fructose corn syrup is a liquid sweetener made from corn, and is sugar that turns into glucose. High-fructose corn syrup was introduced in the 1970s and is cheaper than sugar, has better flavor, longer shelf life, more stable and consistent (WebMD, 2021). As a result, much of the commercial food you enjoy contain high-fructose to appeal to the consumer.
Fructose is a natural sugar present in fruits, fruit juices, certain vegetables, and honey (Nail, 2021). In these forms, fructose sugars can be part of a nutritious diet. The high consumption of foods with high-fructose can contribute to obesity, type 2 diabetes, fatty liver disease, high triglycerides (or fat in your blood ie. high cholesterol) and other issues (Anania, 2011).
The following foods contain high-fructose corn syrup:
- Fast food items
- Breakfast cereals
- Bread and baked goods
- Sweetened dairy products like yogurts
- Candies
- Canned foods like soups and fruit
- Soft drinks
Minimize your risk by reading labels, reducing your consumption of foods high in fructose, and making healthy food choices. Home cooked meals are also an excellent alternative to an unhealthy diet. Cooking at home may not be popular or convenient but you will reduce your risk of disease and other health issues related to eating foods made with high-fructose. Remember food is medicine.
Just keeping you informed.
References
Anania, F.A., (2011). Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and fructose: Bad for us, better for mice. Journal of Hepatology, 55:1, pp.218-220.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhep.2011.01.029.
Nail, R. (2021). Is Fructose bad for you? https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323818
What to Know About High-Fructose Corn Syrup (2021). https://www.webmd.com/diet/what-to-know-about-high-fructose-corn-syrup
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