Is high-fructose corn syrup healthy?
Television ads supporting the use of high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) are causing controversy among health advocates. These commercials, produced by The Corn Refiners Association, say that HFCS is no different than sugar. However this sweetener, which is added to many high processed foods and drinks, has been linked directly and indirectly to the widespead obesity epidemic. Are these ads misleading and how much HFCS is too much? Is HFCS ok in moderation? Interestingly HFCS has been around since the 1970’s yet earlier this year, the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) and other regulatory systems discussed the quality of this ubiquitous food additive. According to one spokesperson, HFCS is not natural and attributes this to the use of synthetic substances used in the manufacturing process. The corn industry argues that there are no regulations on the term, “natural” so therefore they have every right to continue marketing HFCS as safe and healthy. Consumer beware.
My friend and colleague Glen Colello of West Haven’s, Catch A Healthy Habit Cafe, recently produced a video on his views. The actors in the video apparently researched the topic prior to the taping and suggest that HFCS has no place in a healthful diet. I couldn’t agree more. To see the video, click here.
The low cost of HFCS means that it can inexpensively added to food and drink. Who doesn’t like sweet flavors? HFCS allows manufacturers to upgrade taste and also texture and shelf life. Did you know that HFCS will help reduce the chance of freezer burn? The truth is that this sneaky filler contains absolutely no vitamins or minerals and is void of anything nutritional. White table sugar can easily store as fat in the body and the same can happen when too much HFCS is part of someone’s diet. Not to mention blood sugar problems, diabetes, high blood pressure, etc.
It’s important to read your labels thoroughly because HFCS is hidden in so many different kinds of foods including things that appear healthy like yogurt and whole grain cereal. The best way to tackle the HFCS overload is to read your labels. Compare similar foods (perhaps the same food but from a different brand) and review the list of ingredients. Even small amounts of HFCS can hurt your your health so it’s best to avoid this ingredient if you can.