Effects Of High Fructose Corn Syrup On The Human Body
High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a sweetener that is commonly used in many food and drink products. It is made by adding enzymes to corn starch, which break down the glucose molecules and convert them into fructose. The resulting mixture is then processed further to increase the concentration of fructose. This sweetener has become popular due to its low cost, long shelf life and ability to enhance the flavor of food and drink products. However, the consumption of high amounts of HFCS has several negative effects on the human body.
Increased risk of obesity
The consumption of high amounts of HFCS has been linked to an increased risk of obesity. This is because fructose is metabolized differently in the body compared to other sugars. Unlike glucose, fructose is entirely metabolized in the liver, which can lead to the accumulation of fats in the liver and an increase in insulin resistance. Insulin resistance is a condition where the body's cells become less responsive to insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. This condition can lead to the development of type 2 diabetes, which is strongly associated with obesity.
Increased risk of heart diseases
Consuming high amounts of HFCS has also been linked to an increased risk of heart diseases. This is because fructose can increase the levels of triglycerides in the blood. Triglycerides are a type of fat that can accumulate in the arteries, leading to the development of atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a condition where the arteries become narrow due to the accumulation of fats, which can lead to heart diseases such as heart attack and stroke.
Increased risk of fatty liver disease
Consuming high amounts of HFCS can also increase the risk of fatty liver disease. This is because fructose is metabolized exclusively in the liver, and excessive amounts of fructose can lead to the accumulation of fats in the liver, which can cause inflammation and damage to liver cells. Over time, this can lead to the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, which is strongly associated with obesity and insulin resistance.
Increased risk of kidney damage
Consuming high amounts of HFCS can also increase the risk of kidney damage. This is because fructose can increase the blood pressure and uric acid levels in the body, which can cause damage to the kidneys over time. High levels of uric acid can lead to the formation of crystals in the kidneys, which can cause pain and damage to the kidney tissue. Over time, this can lead to the development of chronic kidney disease, which is a condition where the kidneys lose their ability to function properly.
Cancer risk
There is also evidence to suggest that consuming high amounts of HFCS can increase the risk of cancer. This is because fructose can lead to the production of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which are compounds that can cause inflammation and damage to DNA. This can lead to the development of cancer cells over time. In addition, HFCS is often used in processed foods that are high in additives and preservatives, which are also known to increase the risk of cancer.
Conclusion
The consumption of high amounts of HFCS has several negative effects on the human body, including an increased risk of obesity, heart diseases, fatty liver disease, kidney damage and cancer. Therefore, it is essential to limit the consumption of this sweetener and opt for natural sweeteners such as honey, maple syrup or stevia, which are less processed and have fewer negative effects on the body.