Whether you’re a diligent parent trying to make healthy choices for your family or an adult looking to cut down on processed foods, you’ve probably heard that high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is something to avoid. But what is it, and why is it bad for you? In this post, we’ll take a closer look at HFCS and explain why it’s best to steer clear of it.

What Is High Fructose Corn Syrup

High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a sweetener that is made from corn starch. It is found in many food products, including soft drinks, breads, cereals, condiments, and snacks. HFCS was first introduced into the food supply in the early 1970s. At that time, it was used only in a few industrial food products. Today, high fructose corn syrup is used in a wide variety of foods and beverages.

There are two main types of High fructose corn syrup:

1. High fructose corn syrup 55 is mostly used in processed foods, such as soft drinks, baked goods, and snacks.
2. High fructose corn syrup 42 is used mostly in desserts, yogurt, and some condiments.

How is High Fructose Corn Syrup Made

High fructose corn syrup is made by processing corn starch to extract the glucose syrup. Then, enzymes are used to convert some of the glucose into fructose. The resulting syrup is a mixture of glucose and fructose.

High fructose corn syrup is sweeter than sucrose (table sugar). It is also cheaper to produce than sucrose. That is why High fructose corn syrup is used in so many food products.

Health Concerns

High fructose corn syrup has been linked to several health problems, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. Some studies have also suggested that High fructose corn syrup may contain harmful chemicals that can leach into food.

If you are concerned about your health, you should avoid foods that contain High fructose corn syrup. You can find out if a food contains High fructose corn syrup by reading the ingredient list on the label. If High fructose corn syrup is listed as an ingredient, put the product back on the shelf.

Many delicious and healthy foods do not contain High fructose corn syrup. When you are grocery shopping, look for foods that are made with natural sweeteners, such as honey or maple syrup. You can also find High fructose corn syrup-free products at some natural food stores.

The Effects HFCS Has On Children

Obesity

Some studies have shown that high fructose corn syrup can make kids more likely to be obese. This is because it is very sweet and makes food “taste good”. When you eat a lot of sweet things, your body gets used to it and wants more and more sugar. Over time, this can make you gain weight and become unhealthy.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

HFCS can make it hard for children to pay attention and it can also make them act out more. Why? Because high fructose corn syrup contains a lot of sugar which negatively affects the way the brain works.

Diabetes

High fructose corn syrup can cause diabetes in children because it makes the child’s body resistant to insulin, which is a hormone that helps the body turn sugar into energy. High fructose corn syrup can also increase the risk of developing diabetes because it can raise blood sugar levels.

Depression

High fructose corn syrup can cause depression in children because it reacts with their serotonin levels. Serotonin is the hormone that makes people happy, and when there is too much high fructose corn syrup in a child’s body, it can decrease energy and make them tired. Cue the tantrums and the aggression. I know and understand that children love sweet things but there are better options. Options not containing this harmful ingredient. Always choose natural sugars over HFCS.

Learning Disabilities

Life scientists from UCLA conducted a study to learn the effects of fructose on rats’ brains. The scientists looked at how fructose could alter human brains. UCLA found that 200 genes that help regulate memory and learning were affected by fructose. This could lead to a variety of brain diseases. The UCLA Newsroom reported,

“Previous research 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.”

That tells you all you need to know about consuming HFCS and healthy brain development. Yet another strong reason to get HFCS away from your children and out of your home.

The Difference Between Fructose In Fruit & Fructose In HFCS

Simply put, fruit fructose is healthy for you, while high fructose corn syrup is not. This is because fruit fructose contains other nutrients that are good for you, while high fructose corn syrup does not. When you’re eating fresh fruit you are consuming naturally occurring fructose along with minerals, vitamins, and nutrients that are vital to your body and healthy brain development. HFCS consumption is extremely high concentrations of artificial fructose void of any health benefits.

Deceiving Names For High Fructose Corn Syrup

If you didn’t know the USA uses a ridiculous amount of harmful ingredients in our food. The FDA database has a list of over 3000 ingredients added to our foods. That is scary! It’s our responsibility to be diligent and make sure that we are making the best food decisions for our children.

High fructose corn syrup has many names and I wanted to share this list with you so you know exactly how to pinpoint this harmful ingredient because sometimes it won’t be as clear as “High fructose corn syrup”

• Corn syrup
• Glucose syrup
• Glucose/fructose syrup
• Maize syrup
• Isoglucose
• Tapioca syrup
• Dahlia syrup
• Fruit fructose

A List Of Foods Containing HFCS

• Fast Food
• Breakfast Cereal
• Snacks Bars
• Packaged Desserts
• Canned Fruits
• Condiments (ketchup, BBQ sauce, etc.)
• Snacks (candy, chips, etc.)
• Salad Dressings
• Some Breads/ Crackers

A List Of Beverages Containing HFCS

• Most Sodas
• Energy Drinks
• Sports Drinks
• Fruit Juice
• Some Wines

In Conclusion

If you are a parent, you may be wondering if High fructose corn syrup is safe for your kids. The answer is no. Many studies have linked High fructose corn syrup to obesity and other health problems in children. You can help protect your kids by feeding them healthy food that does not contain High fructose corn syrup. At first, it may seem daunting because HFCS is literally in everything but I guarantee you it’s worth it and the alternatives are much better. Try to steer clear of added sugars.

When you are grocery shopping, read the ingredient labels carefully. You can also make your own healthy snacks and desserts at home. There are plenty of recipes online that do not use High fructose corn syrup. By avoiding High fructose corn syrup, you can help keep your kids healthy and happy.

As you can see, there are many good reasons to avoid High fructose corn syrup. It is linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other health problems. There are absolutely no health benefits. If you are concerned about your child’s health, avoid foods that contain High fructose corn syrup. And lastly, if you are a parent, you can help protect your kids by eliminating this garbage ingredient from your lives and only feed them healthy whole foods that nourish their growing bodies.