Dangers Of High Fructose Corn Syrup Mayo Clinic
High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a sweetener commonly used in processed foods and beverages. It is derived from corn starch and is chemically altered to convert some of its glucose molecules into fructose. This makes HFCS sweeter than regular table sugar and cheaper to produce. However, studies have shown that consuming too much HFCS can have negative effects on our health. In this article, we will discuss the dangers of high fructose corn syrup, as highlighted by the Mayo Clinic.
Obesity and Weight Gain
One of the most concerning dangers of high fructose corn syrup is its link to obesity and weight gain. The Mayo Clinic states that consuming high amounts of fructose can lead to an increase in abdominal fat, which is associated with a higher risk of heart disease and diabetes. This is because fructose does not stimulate insulin secretion, which is responsible for regulating our blood sugar levels and preventing fat storage.
Furthermore, HFCS is often found in sugary drinks such as soda and fruit juices, which are high in calories and do not make us feel full. This means that people who consume these drinks regularly may be consuming more calories than they need, leading to weight gain and obesity.
Type 2 Diabetes
Another danger of high fructose corn syrup is its link to type 2 diabetes. The Mayo Clinic explains that consuming high amounts of fructose can cause insulin resistance, which means that our cells do not respond properly to insulin. This results in high blood sugar levels, which can eventually lead to type 2 diabetes. In fact, studies have shown that people who consume sugary drinks regularly have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes than those who do not.
Heart Disease
High fructose corn syrup has also been linked to an increased risk of heart disease. According to the Mayo Clinic, consuming high amounts of fructose can increase our levels of triglycerides, which are a type of fat found in our blood. High levels of triglycerides are associated with an increased risk of heart disease, as well as other conditions such as stroke and fatty liver disease.
Dental Problems
Finally, consuming high amounts of high fructose corn syrup can also lead to dental problems. The Mayo Clinic explains that when we consume sugary foods and drinks, the bacteria in our mouth feed on the sugar and produce acid. This acid can erode our tooth enamel and lead to cavities and tooth decay.
Conclusion
While high fructose corn syrup may be a cheaper and sweeter alternative to regular table sugar, it comes with many dangers. Consuming too much HFCS has been linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and dental problems. Therefore, it is important to limit our intake of sugary drinks and processed foods that contain high fructose corn syrup, and choose healthier alternatives instead.