Foods With High Fructose Corn Syrup In Them
If you're one of the many Americans concerned about your sugar intake, it's important to be aware of foods that contain high fructose corn syrup. This sweetener is a popular ingredient in many processed foods, including beverages, condiments, and even bread. In this article, we'll take a closer look at foods that contain high fructose corn syrup and some of the potential health risks associated with consuming it regularly.
Beverages
One of the most common places you'll find high fructose corn syrup is in sugary drinks. Soda, energy drinks, fruit juices, and sports drinks are all notorious for their high sugar content. These beverages can contribute to weight gain, tooth decay, and other health problems when consumed regularly.
Condiments
Ketchup, barbecue sauce, and other condiments often contain high fructose corn syrup as a sweetener. While a dollop of ketchup on your burger might not seem like a big deal, it's important to pay attention to the total amount of sugar you're consuming when you factor in all the other foods in your diet.
Baked Goods
Baked goods like cookies, cakes, and pastries are often loaded with sugar, and high fructose corn syrup is a common ingredient in many recipes. It's worth checking the nutrition labels of baked goods at the grocery store, and considering making your own treats from scratch with less sugar.
Processed Foods
Processed foods like frozen dinners, canned soups, and snack foods often contain high fructose corn syrup as well. These foods can be convenient for busy lifestyles but are generally higher in calories and lower in nutrients than whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
The Health Risks of High Fructose Corn Syrup
While high fructose corn syrup is generally recognized as safe by the FDA, some research suggests that it may have negative health effects when consumed in excess. Studies have linked high fructose corn syrup to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other chronic health conditions. It's important to consume all foods in moderation and to pay attention to the total amount of sugar in your diet.
The Bottom Line
High fructose corn syrup is a popular sweetener in many processed foods, and it's important to be aware of where it's hiding in your diet. Beverages, condiments, baked goods, and processed foods are some of the most common places you'll find it. While high fructose corn syrup may be safe in moderation, it's a good idea to choose whole, minimally processed foods as much as possible and to be mindful of your sugar intake overall.
