On September 14th, the Corn Refiners Association (CRA) submitted a petition to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to allow a new name for high fructose corn syrup to be used on food and beverage labels: corn sugar.
Given that many people have become aware of the negative health effects of this man-made, highly processed sweetener, the average annual American consumption of corn syrup has fallen to a 20-year low. Yet the controversy and debate still rages on between sugar and high fructose corn syrup (HFCS). Medical studies continue to trickle in proclaiming that not all sugars are metabolized the same way by the body. A new study from Princeton links excessive high fructose corn syrup consumption to obesity, regardless of caloric intake, while a recent study from UCLA showed that pancreatic cancer cells readily use fructose to multiply, preferring fructose over glucose to divide and proliferate. Some researchers claim that fructose doesn’t trigger satiety hormones like other types of sugar do, causing us to eat more without feeling full. Studies have also linked HFCS to elevated triglycerides and insulin resistance. Insulin resistance and obesity are two primary factors related to the condition called Metabolic Syndrome.
Metabolic Syndrome is characterized by increased waist circumference, hypertension, elevated fasting glucose levels and insulin resistance. It is estimated to affect 32 % of the American population. With rising levels of obesity and serious health problems related to insulin, we must all become aware of how much sugar we are really consuming. The ubiquitous high fructose corn syrup is an obvious suspect because it’s added to almost all packaged foods, from whole-grain” breads to yogurt to condiments.
Yet the Corn Refiners Association still claims that high fructose corn syrup is just the same as table sugar to the body, and it’s all natural. Due to the public relations crisis surrounding their flagship product, they want to change the name, not the ingredient.
If you are concerned about metabolic syndrome, our comprehensive Integrative Metabolic Formula promotes healthy blood glucose levels, supports healthy insulin levels, promotes reduction of fat absorption, and helps to fight sugar cravings. Using this effective formula with a healthy diet is a strong start towards a healthy weight and lifestyle.*
Decreasing your overall intake of sugar, regardless of the form or food it’s in, is a good way to take control of your health.