What is High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS)? It is a cheap sweetener found in almost all processed foods and soft drinks in the United States. It was introduced into our foods because it extended the shelf life of processed foods and cheaper than sugar. HFCS made it easier and cheaper for us to mass produce foods.
Is HFCS safe to consume? Well, I will let you decide that answer for yourself. HFCS is high in calories and low in nutritional value. Including it in your diet regularly has the potential to promote excess weight and obesity. Have you ever noticed you might be able to eat an entire bag of Twizzlers or another type of candy and still be hungry? (Like my husband). This happens because HFCS blocks the hormone leptin from telling your brain you are full. So you can eat and eat and eat, but never feel full. Sound familiar?
Are there alternatives to HFCS? Yes! You might try organic ketchup or barbeque sauce. Check out cereals or breakfast bars that are made with honey, agave nectar or cane juice instead. I recommend Kashi or Mom's Best. If you need a sweetener for your coffee or to bake with you can try agave nectar. It is lower on the glycemic index; therefore, you will not experience the peaks and lows with your blood sugar.
I challenge you to start reading your food labels and see how much HFCS you are consuming then try to replace it with healthier alternatives. Enjoy your new found sweeties!
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