Products That Have High Fructose Corn Syrup
High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a sweetener made from corn starch. It's commonly used in processed foods and beverages as a cheaper alternative to sugar. While it may make these products taste better, consuming too much of it can be harmful to your health. In this article, we'll take a deep dive into products that have high fructose corn syrup and why you should be cautious of your intake.
Soda and Energy Drinks
One of the most notable products that have high fructose corn syrup is soda and energy drinks. In fact, they are among the top sources of added sugar in the American diet. A single 12-ounce can of soda contains up to 10 teaspoons of added sugar! Consuming too much sugar has been linked to an array of health problems, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and more. If you're looking to cut back on your sugar intake, swapping sugary drinks for water, unsweetened tea or coffee, or low-sugar alternatives like kombucha or flavored sparkling water can be a great first step.
Candy and Sweet Treats
Candy and other sweet treats are also known for being high in fructose corn syrup. These products tend to be high in calories and low in nutrients, making them a "sometimes" food rather than a regular part of your diet. Instead of reaching for candy or other sugary snacks, try satisfying your sweet tooth with fresh or dried fruit, yogurt with honey, or homemade baked goods using natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup or fruit puree.
Baked Goods and Breakfast Cereals
Baked goods and breakfast cereals are other common products that have high fructose corn syrup. Many of these products are marketed as "healthy" or "whole grain," but they often contain high amounts of added sugar. When purchasing baked goods and breakfast cereals, be sure to read the label and ingredient list carefully. Look for products with little to no added sugar or consider making your own at home with natural sweeteners and whole food ingredients.
Canned Fruits and Vegetables
Canned fruits and vegetables may seem like a healthy option, but many of these products have high fructose corn syrup in them as a preservative. To make sure you're getting the most out of your fruits and veggies, opt for fresh or frozen varieties whenever possible. If you do buy canned fruits and vegetables, be sure to read the label carefully and choose options with no added sugar or preservatives.
Condiments and Sauces
Ketchup, barbecue sauce, salad dressing, and other condiments and sauces are often high in added sugar, with high fructose corn syrup being a common culprit. To cut down on your sugar intake, consider making your own condiments and sauces at home using natural sweeteners like honey or pureed fruit. When purchasing pre-made options, read the label carefully and choose products with little to no added sugar.
Conclusion
High fructose corn syrup is a common ingredient in processed foods and beverages, but consuming too much of it can be harmful to your health. To reduce your sugar intake and improve your overall well-being, be mindful of your consumption of products that have high fructose corn syrup, and opt for whole, natural foods whenever possible. Remember to read labels carefully, and choose products with little to no added sugar. Small changes can make a big difference in your health in the long run.