High fructose corn syrup not an unhealthy choice

Drew Robert Winter's advice to avoid high-fructose corn syrup, or HFCS, because it is harmful, metabolizes differently than other sugars and contributes to obesity in "Weight problems" (SN 8/1), is misleading.

Recent scientific studies have shown the human body appears to metabolize HFCS and sugar in much the same way.

Kathleen J. Melanson, et al. at Rhode Island University recently reviewed the effects of HFCS and sucrose on circulating levels of glucose, leptin, insulin and ghrelin in a study group of lean women. The study found "no differences in the metabolic effects" of HFCS and sucrose.

Linda M. Zukley, et al. at the Rippe Lifestyle Institute reviewed the effects of HFCS and sucrose on triglycerides in a study group of lean women. This short-term study found "no differences in the metabolic effects in lean women [of HFCS] compared to sucrose." Their paper was presented at the June 2007 meeting of The Endocrine Society.

No single food or ingredient is the sole cause of obesity, but too many calories and too little exercise are primary causes. HFCS is not higher in calories than any other nutritive sweetener.

Both sugar and HFCS contain four calories per gram.

There is no credible scientific evidence to suggest that HFCS is a unique contributor to obesity. Dr. Walter Willett, chairman of the Harvard School of Public Health Nutrition Department, told The New York Times, "There's no substantial evidence to support the idea that high-fructose corn syrup is somehow responsible for obesity."

HFCS is a safe, natural, nutritive sweetener that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. In 1983, the Food and Drug Administration listed HFCS as "Generally Recognized as Safe" for use in food and reaffirmed that ruling in 1996.

According to the American Dietetic Association, "Consumers can safely enjoy a range of nutritive and non-nutritive sweeteners when consumed in a diet that is guided by current federal nutrition recommendations … as well as individual health goals."

Audrae Erickson

president of Corn Refiners Association

Published on Friday, August 3, 2007