How bad is high fructose corn syrup relative to the alternatives?
5 min read
Asked by: Justin Hough
The Bottom Line The most common form of high-fructose corn syrup, HFCS 55, is virtually identical to regular table sugar. Evidence to suggest that one is worse than the other is currently lacking. In other words, they’re both equally bad when consumed in excess.
Is high fructose corn syrup as bad as they say?
“High fructose corn syrup also contributes to diabetes, inflammation, high triglycerides, and something we call non-alcoholic fatty liver disease,” says Dr. Hyman. He says it increases all the fat in the liver which now affects over 90 million Americans. “It can even cause fibrosis or what we call cirrhosis.
Why you should never eat high fructose corn syrup?
HFCS and sugar have been shown to drive inflammation, which is associated with an increased risk of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. In addition to inflammation, excess fructose may increase harmful substances called advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which may harm your cells ( 21 , 22 , 23 ).
What is an alternative to high fructose corn syrup?
Maple syrup
It’s a great addition to many dishes and can be swapped in for an equal amount of corn syrup in most recipes, including glazes, frostings, and homemade jams.
Is cane sugar or high fructose corn syrup worse for you?
Perhaps you figured pure cane sugar is somehow better than processed food and drink that use high-fructose corn syrup. But this study suggests they both offer the same risk. LONGEVITY HACKS is a regular series from Inverse on the science-backed strategies to live better, healthier, and longer without medicine.
Is high fructose corn syrup OK in moderation?
In short, HFCS is essentially the same as table sugar in taste and metabolic effect. Though it is largely over-consumed in sweetened beverages and processed foods, contributing to excess calorie consumption and weight gain, it is safe to be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced, healthy diet.
What does high fructose corn syrup do to your brain?
Previous research led by Gomez-Pinilla found that fructose damages communication between brain cells and increases toxic molecules in the brain; and that a long-term high-fructose diet diminishes the brain’s ability to learn and remember information.
Which is worse aspartame or high fructose corn syrup?
Therefore, if people avoid the high fructose corn syrup but consume over the recommended limit for aspartame per day — often said to be three cans of diet soda — then they would perhaps be at a high risk for nervous system damage. A glass of diet soda containing aspartame.
Is corn syrup worse than sugar?
The Bottom Line. The most common form of high-fructose corn syrup, HFCS 55, is virtually identical to regular table sugar. Evidence to suggest that one is worse than the other is currently lacking. In other words, they’re both equally bad when consumed in excess.
Why is high fructose corn syrup in everything?
It’s Cheaper
High fructose corn syrup is actually cheaper than granulated sugar in America. The government pays subsidies to farmers for corn. Many products made with this ingredient are going to be more affordable than foods made with whole, natural ingredients. Fast food is also a cheap option.
Are there any sodas without high-fructose corn syrup?
Soda Without HFCS
On its Products Facts website, the Coca-Cola Company lists several sodas without HFCS, such as Diet Coke, Fanta Zero and Sprite Zero. Diet sodas typically use artificial sweeteners to cut down on calories.
What’s the healthiest sugar?
Stevia — in packet, drops or plant form — is a dietitian favorite. Not only does it contain zero calories, but stevia-based sweeteners are herbal as opposed to artificial. Stevia blended with a sugar alcohol called erythritol (Truvia®) works well in low-carb baked desserts, too.
Is honey better than high-fructose corn syrup?
Why is corn syrup used in ice cream?4,1
Why is high fructose corn syrup in everything?
It’s Cheaper
High fructose corn syrup is actually cheaper than granulated sugar in America. The government pays subsidies to farmers for corn. Many products made with this ingredient are going to be more affordable than foods made with whole, natural ingredients. Fast food is also a cheap option.
Is regular corn syrup bad for you?
Corn syrup contains high amounts of fructose, which can increase your appetite and lead to several health issues, such as obesity and diabetes.
Why do pickles have high fructose corn syrup?
Certain kinds of pickles (like sweet gherkins and bread-and-butter pickles) are given a touch of sweetness from high fructose corn syrup before they’re pickled. Making your own pickles with some vinegar and spices is easier than you think!
How much corn syrup can you eat?
Eating too much corn syrup can lead to health issues
“Eating a little bit of corn syrup such as a serving, which is a tablespoon, is not detrimental,” she said. “However, the amount that is being squeezed out of the bottle is way more than 1 tablespoon.
Does peanut butter have high-fructose corn syrup?
Peanut and other nut butters: Peanut butter might seem to be a savory treat, but it is actually very sweet. Many peanut butter manufacturers add sugar, and some add HFCS. The same is true of some other nut butters, such as cashew and almond butter.
How do you avoid high-fructose corn syrup?
6 easy ways to limit your intake of high-fructose corn syrup:
- Choose fresh whole produce most of the time, such as fresh fruit and veggies.
- Limit processed foods, and foods that contain added sugar.
- Avoid sodas and processed fruit juices – instead go for water, tea, or reduced fat milk.
