High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) is a
popular sweetener that is widely used in processed foods. Unlike sugars such as lactose and fructose, HFCS does
not occur naturally in nature.
HFCS is created in a laboratory from cornstarch and was first used in the food
supply in the 70’s when corn prices were inexpensive. HFCS quickly grew in
popularity. During this time, the country’s obesity rates also rose. The increased
consumption of HFCS left researchers wondering if there was an association
between the two.The most common foods that contain HFCS include breakfast cereals, beverages, canned fruits, snack foods, desserts, soups and dairy products. Due to a large population of kids and adolescents consuming HFCS-containing products and the staggering number of obesity rates among this group, researchers reviewed the literature on the association between childhood obesity and HFCS consumption.
The article, published in the Journal
of Pediatric Obesity, included four systemic reviews and two meta-analyses.
Results of these systemic reviews and meta-analyses were mixed; while two of
the systemic reviews concluded there was no association between consumption of
HFCS and childhood obesity, the other two systemic reviews demonstrated a
possible link between consumption of HFCS and childhood obesity. The
meta-analyses found that consumption of HFCS, especially from sugar-sweetened
beverages, may contribute to obesity in children. The researchers determined
that while the evidence linking consumption of HFCS and obesity in children is
inconclusive, there is well-established research on the association between
excess calorie intake and reduced physical activity and rising rates of
childhood obesity.
Bottom line: HFCS provides empty calories; it is recommended to limit the amount of empty calories in the diet as these add to total calorie intake but are devoid of nutrients. Since HFCS is used in processed foods, limiting your intake of processed foods will help reduce your consumption of HFCS. The American Academy of Pediatrics warns against frequent consumption of soda, fruit drinks and sport beverages and recommends paying close attention to portion sizes if these beverages are consumed. Following these recommendations and encouraging exercise are proven methods to help reduce and prevent obesity in children.
Bottom line: HFCS provides empty calories; it is recommended to limit the amount of empty calories in the diet as these add to total calorie intake but are devoid of nutrients. Since HFCS is used in processed foods, limiting your intake of processed foods will help reduce your consumption of HFCS. The American Academy of Pediatrics warns against frequent consumption of soda, fruit drinks and sport beverages and recommends paying close attention to portion sizes if these beverages are consumed. Following these recommendations and encouraging exercise are proven methods to help reduce and prevent obesity in children.
Source
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