Facts About High Fructose Corn Syrup
High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is commercially used as a sweetener and preservative. During the procedure of manufacturing HFCS from corn, glucose in cornstarch is changed to fructose. High fructose corn syrup is used as an ingredient in almost all processed and canned foods like, pizzas, candies, breads, sweetened yogurts, ketchup, baby foods, cookies, soft drinks, beer, sodas, juices, etc. It extends the shelf life of processed food and it is cheaper than sugar. Hence, it is a popular ingredient in all the ready-made food items. Now, everybody knows that white sugar is bad for health but HFCS is said to be worse than white sugar and the scientists are still researching on high fructose corn syrup dangers. Before knowing about the high fructose corn syrup health risks, let us first have a look at the facts associated with the increased consumption of high fructose corn syrup.
High Fructose Corn Syrup Facts
In the US, on almost all the grocery store shelves, you can find high fructose corn syrup used as an ingredient in the checklist displayed on the products. According to the 'U.S. Agriculture Department', consumption of 'high fructose corn syrup' is far more than the consumption of white sugar. The available statistics reveal the facts about the annual consumption of HFCS. Today, it is estimated that more than 60 pounds of HFCS per person is consumed, while only '1/2 pound of HFCS per person' was consumed in 1970. The food industry is fond of it because it is cheap and easy to transport in tankers and it is not susceptible to freezer burn as is sugar. The government trade policies are responsible for making it cheaper than sugar in the market and farmers are thus encouraged to grow more corn. We know that it increases the shelf life of so many processed food products but it also prevents the food from drying and gives bread and baked products a wonderful color. So the fast food chains opt for it in spite of knowing about the possible dangers of high fructose corn syrup and it is also preferred by the manufacturers of foods and drinks. Now, let us have a look at the high fructose corn syrup dangers.
High Fructose Corn Syrup Dangers
Following is the list of high fructose corn syrup dangers. These are not proved scientifically. These are based on the observations and statistical analysis.
• Everyone is astonished by the increased obesity and its association with the increased consumption of high fructose corn syrup. The beverages and foods having HFCS are high in calories but low in nutritional values. Various early studies have shown an association between increased consumption of sweetened beverages containing high-fructose corn syrup and obesity, though, some recent studies do not hold HFCS responsible for obesity.
• As insulin production is not stimulated by high fructose corn syrup, you tend to eat more. Insulin offers you the feeling of 'being full'. This can also be the reason behind increased obesity as HFCS makes people eat more than they should. Fructose suppresses the sensation of fullness.
• When HFCS is used to sweeten the soft drinks, they are found to be high in harmful carbonyl compounds, like methylglyoxal, which can cause complications like foot ulcers and eye and nerve damage in diabetic persons.
• Nine of the twenty samples of the high fructose corn syrup in the US in 2005, when tested, did contain measurable amounts of mercury. A pilot study has reported that the mercury concentrations in the samples testing positive, ranged from 0.012 to 0.570 micro-grams per gram.
• The manufactured fructose, in this highly refined and artificial product named HFCS, is digested by our body in a totally different way. As it goes directly to the liver, liver releases enzymes, which instruct the body to store more fat.
• The released enzymes in the liver can also lead to an increase in cholesterol level.
• Sometimes, an increase in triglyceride levels is also noticed.
• Chromium levels are lowered because of the increased consumption of high fructose corn syrup, leading to type 2 diabetes.
• Excessive consumption of HFCS can lead to coronary artery disease or high blood pressure.
• Low cost of HFCS encourage more consumption, which is bad for health leading to several diseases.
While the scientific research continues, limited use or avoiding the suspicious product is better. If you can avoid processed food, or the food containing added sugar, you can automatically stay away from the high fructose corn syrup dangers. Similarly, you can avoid drinking soda or you can just reduce the consumption of sodas or soft drinks. You can opt for fresh fruits rather than drinking fruit flavored drinks or fruit juices. You should never replace milk, especially for children, with sweetened beverages. If you can select the fruits canned in its own juices instead of heavy syrups, you will be successful in reducing the consumption of high fructose corn syrup. As usual, the consumers are left confused since most of the information about the high fructose corn syrup dangers, lacks scientific merit.
"Know the labels of what you eat and drink. Have a healthy life."...:>)
No comments:
Post a Comment