Moderation of Sugars - From the Experts
James M. Rippe, M.D., Cardiologist and Biomedical Sciences Professor at the University of Central Florida discusses family nutrition concerns, moderation and high fructose corn syrup.
HFCS Facts & Stats
Research confirms that high fructose corn syrup is safe and nutritionally the same as table sugar and honey. More quick facts are available.
Sweetener FAQ
Why did food and beverage manufacturers switch from sugar to high fructose corn syrup to sweeten products? Find answers to questions about sweeteners.
HFCS Health Effects
High Fructose Corn Syrups, Part 2: Health Effects
Nutrition Today. 41(2):70-77, March/April 2006. Schorin, Marilyn D. PhD, RD, FADA
Author Marilyn D. Schorin, Ph.D. concludes, “Given what we know about the metabolism of orally ingested sugars, it is difficult to identify a plausible physiological explanation for how approximately equal amounts of fructose and glucose should have differential effects when chemically bonded (such as in sucrose) or not (such as in HFCS). Thus, the current evidence does not support claims of a specific unique effect of HFCS on health.”
Abstract:
High fructose corn syrup use in food gradually increased from its introduction in 1980 until the late 1990s. The monosaccharide components of high fructose corn syrup and sucrose are identical. Part 2 of this article explores the health effects of high fructose corn syrup, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, blood lipids, and dental caries.
Sweet foods and beverages have traditionally been part of Western dietary patterns. The Old Testament refers to "the land of milk and honey" to convey sweetness and comfort. Enjoyment of sweets is inborn and so ingrained in us that even infants respond positively when tasting something sweet. But nutrition professionals are wondering if the recent shift in sweetener use in the United States from sucrose to high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) has specific good or ill health effects.
High fructose corn syrup is similar in composition and sweetness to sucrose (table sugar). It is absorbed and metabolized like sucrose. Introduced into the food supply in 1968, high fructose corn syrup gained rapid acceptance by both the food industry and consumers after 1980. Consumption of high fructose corn syrup has stabilized since the late 1990s. This article reviews research relating the health effects of high fructose corn syrup to obesity, appetite, glycemic control, and hyperlipidemia. The term health effects is used, rather than adverse effects, because consumption of high fructose corn syrup includes some beneficial characteristics; for example, sugars provide energy that may be essential in some diets.
© 2006 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.