Hidden Names For High Fructose Corn Syrup
High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a type of sweetener that has been widely used in the food industry for many years. It is made by breaking down corn starch into glucose, and then converting some of that glucose into fructose. HFCS is often used as a cheaper alternative to sugar, as it is easy to use and has a longer shelf life. However, there are concerns about the health effects of consuming too much HFCS, as it has been linked to obesity, diabetes, and other health problems. To make matters worse, HFCS is often hidden in foods under different names, making it difficult for consumers to avoid. In this article, we will explore some of the hidden names for high fructose corn syrup and how to identify them.
What is High Fructose Corn Syrup?
High fructose corn syrup is a type of sweetener that is made from corn starch. Corn starch is broken down into glucose, which is then converted into fructose using enzymes. The resulting high fructose corn syrup is a mixture of glucose and fructose, with varying levels of fructose depending on the type of HFCS.
HFCS is commonly used in a wide variety of processed foods, including soft drinks, baked goods, and condiments. It is also used as a sweetener in some fruit juices and other beverages. The use of HFCS has increased dramatically over the past few decades, as it is cheaper than sugar and easier to use in manufacturing.
The Health Risks of High Fructose Corn Syrup
There are many health risks associated with consuming too much high fructose corn syrup. One of the biggest concerns is obesity. Studies have shown that people who consume high amounts of HFCS are more likely to be overweight or obese. This is because HFCS is metabolized differently than other sugars, leading to an increased appetite and a decreased sense of fullness.
HFCS has also been linked to other health problems, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and liver disease. Studies have shown that people who consume high amounts of HFCS have a greater risk of developing these conditions than those who consume lower amounts.
Hidden Names for High Fructose Corn Syrup
Despite the health risks associated with high fructose corn syrup, it is still widely used in the food industry. To make matters worse, HFCS is often hidden in foods under different names, making it difficult for consumers to identify. Here are some of the hidden names for high fructose corn syrup:
1. Corn Syrup
One of the most common hidden names for high fructose corn syrup is corn syrup. This is because corn syrup is a mixture of glucose and other sugars, including fructose. While not all corn syrup contains high fructose corn syrup, many do, so it is important to read labels carefully.
2. Glucose Syrup
Glucose syrup is another common name for high fructose corn syrup. Like corn syrup, glucose syrup is made from corn starch and is a mixture of glucose and other sugars, including fructose.
3. Corn Sugar
Corn sugar is another name for high fructose corn syrup. It is often used as a marketing term, as it sounds more natural than high fructose corn syrup.
4. Fructose
Fructose is a type of sugar that is naturally found in fruits and some vegetables. However, when added to processed foods, it is often derived from high fructose corn syrup.
5. Fruit Juice Concentrate
Fruit juice concentrate is often used as a sweetener in processed foods. While it may sound healthy, it can actually contain high levels of fructose, as it is often derived from high fructose corn syrup.
How to Avoid High Fructose Corn Syrup
The best way to avoid high fructose corn syrup is to read food labels carefully. Look for any of the hidden names for HFCS listed above, and avoid foods that contain them. It is also a good idea to choose whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible, as these are less likely to contain high fructose corn syrup.
Another way to avoid high fructose corn syrup is to make your own food at home. This way, you can control the ingredients and know exactly what you are eating.
Conclusion
High fructose corn syrup is a common sweetener that is used in many processed foods. However, it has been linked to a variety of health problems, including obesity, diabetes, and liver disease. To make matters worse, HFCS is often hidden in foods under different names, making it difficult for consumers to identify. By reading food labels carefully and choosing whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible, you can avoid high fructose corn syrup and improve your overall health.