In the health and wellness world, there are certain ingredients in food that when found, cause a sort of record scratch moment of horror. High fructose corn syrup is one example. At this point, it is well-known that this ingredient is detrimental to the health of anyone. However, what exactly is high fructose corn syrup? How does it affect the body? Where does it lurk?

High fructose corn syrup, a common ingredient in processed foods, is a major factor in the current worldwide obesity epidemic of the modern age. When ingested by the body over a certain threshold, high fructose corn syrup is converted into fatty acids and stored in the body as fat. A study of Princeton University finds that the small intestine is usually responsible for processing this fructose, but a high dose results in “fructose spillover” to the liver and colonic microbiota. This means that an overconsumption of high fructose corn syrup can overwhelm the body’s metabolic processing and undermine your health. Beyond this, it can induce insulin resistance which may eventually cause diabetes as well as increases triglycerides in the blood. This worsens atherosclerosis, or the buildup of fats and cholesterol on artery walls and increases the risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, and peripheral arterial disease. In short, the overconsumption of high fructose corn syrup can be very dangerous for the human body.

Now that the risks have been outlined, how can one go about removing this troublesome ingredient from their diet? The key is to locate the culprit, especially in unassuming places. Certain foods may seem healthy, but they are not always as they appear. Food items such as soda, candy, sweetened yogurt, and store-bought baked goods might be the spot one would expect to find high fructose corn syrup. Yet foods like salad dressings, bread, juice, granola bars, breakfast cereal, and even coffee creamer can contain high fructose corn syrup as a prevalent ingredient. Be sure to read the labels when you purchase items at the grocery store, and seek healthier alternatives.

If you are struggling with how to remove high fructose corn syrup from your diet, or are looking for healthier alternatives, reach out to Pria Wellness today. Our experts can guide your diet in the right direction, and towards a much healthier lifestyle. Reach out over our website or call 410-565-6552 today.

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/20-foods-with-high-fructose-corn-syrup#section19https://www.sdxtraining.com/articles/how-the-body-absorbs-sugar-high-fructose-corn-syrup