Difference Between Table Sugar And High Fructose Corn Syrup
Table sugar and high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) are both common sweeteners used in many food and beverage products. These two sweeteners have been the subject of much debate, with some experts arguing that one is healthier than the other. In this article, we will explore the differences between table sugar and high fructose corn syrup.
What Is Table Sugar?
Table sugar, also known as sucrose, is a disaccharide made up of glucose and fructose. It is derived from sugarcane or sugar beets and is most commonly used as a sweetener in food and beverages. Table sugar is commonly found in sugar cubes, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar. It is also used in the production of baked goods, candy, and soft drinks.
What Is High Fructose Corn Syrup?
High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a sweetener made from corn starch. It is a mixture of glucose and fructose, with varying amounts of each depending on the type of HFCS used. HFCS is commonly used in soft drinks, baked goods, and processed foods. It is less expensive than table sugar and has a longer shelf life.
Differences Between Table Sugar And High Fructose Corn Syrup
The main difference between table sugar and high fructose corn syrup is their composition. As mentioned earlier, table sugar is made up of equal parts glucose and fructose. HFCS, on the other hand, can contain varying amounts of glucose and fructose, with the most common types containing around 55% fructose and 42% glucose. This difference in composition can affect how our bodies process these sweeteners.
Another difference between these two sweeteners is how they are metabolized. Glucose is the primary source of energy for our bodies and is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream. Fructose, on the other hand, is metabolized in the liver and is more slowly absorbed into the bloodstream. This difference in metabolism can affect how our bodies respond to these sweeteners.
Health Effects Of Table Sugar And High Fructose Corn Syrup
Table sugar and high fructose corn syrup both provide empty calories and can contribute to weight gain and obesity. However, HFCS has been shown to have a greater impact on these conditions than table sugar.
A 2011 study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that HFCS consumption was associated with higher levels of triglycerides, a type of fat found in the blood, than consumption of table sugar. High levels of triglycerides are a risk factor for heart disease.
Another study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that people who consumed large amounts of HFCS were more likely to develop obesity and type 2 diabetes than those who consumed less. This study also found that consuming large amounts of table sugar did not have the same effect.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both table sugar and high fructose corn syrup are commonly used sweeteners in many food and beverage products. However, HFCS has been shown to have a greater impact on weight gain, obesity, and other health conditions than table sugar. It is important to consume all sweeteners in moderation and to be mindful of their potential health effects.