January 14, 2014

High Fructose Corn Syrup Again In the News

Now that the Food and Drug administration has declared trans fat unsafe, consumer groups already have their next target in the cross hair for elimination, or tighter regulation. This target is high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) and there is a lot of anticipation that there will be success. Those of us with diabetes won't feel hurt if they are successful in removing it from foods.

#1. It is a highly processed ingredient shrouded in secrecy.

#2. It causes damage to the liver and spikes the blood glucose for people with diabetes.

#3. The corn processors spend millions on lobbyists, TV ads, and highly paid advocates in an attempt to convince consumers that their product is safe.

#4. As health concerns escalate, food companies, supermarkets, and restaurants will voluntarily remove this ingredient.

#5. Some communities are banning or restricting HFCS to halt the ever-increasing medical costs associated with HFCS.

#6. When lawsuits start multiplying and claiming HFCS causes serious health damage, the product will become less prevalent.

As clinical evidence against HFCS mounts, independent researchers are going on record to alert consumers about its health risks. This includes Dr. Robert H. Lustig, Dr. Mark Hyman, Chairman of the Institute for Functional Medicine, and Dr. Michael Goran, Director of the Childhood Obesity Research Center.

Citizens for Health has filed a petition asking the FDA to take action against food and beverage manufacturers that use HFCS concentrations above approved limits, and to require accurate HFCS labeling information. This is the one area I feel will be the greatest help and reducing the amount of HFCS in our foods.

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