Understanding The Dangers Of High Fructose Corn Syrup
Many people do not think much about what goes into the product they purchase for consumption. All they know is that it tastes good, has passed manufacturing requirements, and so forth. The majority do not realize the dangers of high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), which is a common additive to these products.
Cane sugar has long been America’s choice as a sweetener however, in the 1970′s a cheaper sweetener was developed from corn. Less expensive than cane, which contains 50% glucose and 50% fruit sugar, the ratio was changed to 80% fructose and 20% glucose. There was no concern regarding calories as both only contain 4 calories per gram.
The medical profession has noted the increase in obesity, kidney disease, and metabolic syndrome, as well as heart disease. Currently efforts are being made to determine the relationship between HFCS and this disease increase. It has also been connected with kidney stone formation, gout, and the aging process.
Diabetes is a health condition that is suffered by many people. A study was conducted in 2004 to compare HFCS with the dramatic increase diabetic 2 conditions. They found that the use of these sweeteners had increased 2,100% from 1909 to 1997. The conclusion was that there was a definite relationship between the two.
Today, there are many food and beverages that contain this product. Things such as sweetened, carbonated soft drinks are one which are very popular. Since HFCS is cheaper than regular sugar, it can also be found in jams, jellies, dairy products, and candy.
There are ways to avoid the dangers of high fructose corn syrup. All sweetened soft drinks should be avoided, substituting homemade herbal or green tea, and sparkling water. Read product labels and avoid those that contain this type of ingredient, use a natural non-caloric sweetener in desserts, and find supplements to lower the risk of this highly dangerous syrup.
