High Fructose Corn Syrup: Friend or Foe?

High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) has dominated the news recently. Have you seen articles or news stories about the health threat posed by HFCS? TV commercials contend that high fructose corn syrup can be a safe and healthy alternative to sugar. Food manufacturers note that their products are made with sugar and not HFCS.

What are the facts? Health and nutrition experts often send conflicting messages. Vibrant Horizons is on your side to find and share the facts so you can decide for yourself.

HFCS is made by changing the sugar in corn starch (known as glucose) to fructose. This helps extend the shelf life of products and is a cheaper alternative to sugar. It is heavily processed and is often found in equally processed and de-natured foods. HFCS is metabolized into fat more rapidly than any other sugar and has been linked to obesity and type-2 diabetes.

Most of the corn used to make HFCS has been genetically modified, which is suggested to produce long-term side effects and potential allergic reactions. Additionally, at least one of the enzymes used to convert corn starch into fructose is genetically modified. A recent study published in Environmental Health stated that nearly half of commercial HFCS tested contained mercury, which has been linked to a number of nervous system disorders.

The important thing to know is that HFCS is found in many products including yogurt, soda, bread, crackers, muffins, etc. Because of this, many people are consuming a large amount of HFCS without realizing it. Per capita consumption of HFCS increased from less than one pound per person per capita to over 60 pounds from 1970 to 2000 annually. (USDA Economic Research Service)

Don’t be deceived by headlines on the front of packages. “Natural Whole Wheat Bread” may contain HFCS so be sure to check your food labels before buying any products.

Regardless what the media or anyone else tells us, the bottom line is: know your body. Consider what you consume and its effect on your health. What is health-promoting for one person could be deadly for another. Begin to listen and pay attention to your body’s signals, and you will come to a new way of knowing what is healthy for you.