More Study Urged
“High fructose corn syrup does not appear to contribute more to obesity than other caloric sweeteners,” was the conclusion of the American Medical Association (AMA), laying to rest criticism of HFCS in previous articles and studies.
The AMA arrived at their conclusion after studying current research, noting that “at this time, there is insufficient evidence to restrict the use of HFCS or label products that contain it with a warning.” The AMA did call for further independent research to be done on the health effects of high fructose syrup and other sweeteners.
The AMA also expressed continued concern over obesity: “Obesity continues to be a major public health problem in this country. Overweight and obese adults and children are at an increased risk for chronic health conditions like heart disease and diabetes … Eating a healthier diet can help maintain a healthy weight and drastically reduce your chances of developing weight-related illnesses.”
For consumers who would like to control their caloric intake, The Coca-Cola Company offers a wide variety of low- and no-calorie beverages at pricing similar to that of our caloric sparkling soft drinks.
A Few Facts on HFCS, Body Weight & Healthy Lifestyles
- High fructose syrups are sweeteners produced from starches such as corn, rice and wheat. They can be found in a variety of food products, including breakfast cereals, soft drinks and breads.
- Despite its name, HFCS is generally only about half fructose, and there is little difference between HFCS and sucrose (table sugar), both of which contain glucose and fructose.
- No long-term human studies exist to support the claim that HFCS affects body weight any differently than onsuming an equal number of calories from sucrose.
- It is well accepted that increases in body weight and body fat occur when energy intake exceeds energy expenditure, regardless of the source of the calories.
- Two important steps both children and adults can take to achieve and maintain a healthy lifestyle are to eat a variety of foods in moderation and to get between 60 to 90 minutes of physical activity a day.
Source: American Medical Association. Report 3 of the Council on Science and Public Health (A-08): The Health Effects of High Fructose Syrup. Available at http://www.ama-assn.org/ama/no-index/about-ama/18641.shtml (Accessed 6/30/2009)
Additional Resources:
American Dietetic Association. High Fructose Corn Syrup and Weight Status. Available at http://www.eatright.org/cps/rde/xchg/ada/hs.xsl/nutrition_19399_ENU_HTML.htm (Accessed 6/30/2009)
Corn Refiners Association. Sweet Surprise website. www.sweetsurprise.com (accessed 6/30/09)
School Nutrition Foundation: High-fructose Corn Syrup and School Wellness: Science-Based Facts for Healthful School Nutrition Operations Webinar hosted by the School Nutrition Association (SNA) and the School Nutrition Foundation (SNF) in partnership with the International Food Information Council (IFIC). Available at http://www.schoolnutrition.org/Content.aspx?id=10572. (accessed 6/30/09)
