Although many will argue that High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) isn’t bad for you, there is a ton of debate that warrants avoiding the ingredient. Many nutritionists blame HFCS as a major reason for the rise in our nation’s obesity rates. Further, there is a theory that the body processes fructose in high fructose corn syrup differently than cane or beet sugar, which has an effect on how our metabolic-regulating hormones function and can cause our liver to release more fat into our bloodstream. This can result in our bodies wanting to eat more, while potentially storing more fat.
HFCS is a cheap ingredient and as a result, creeps into many foods that seem otherwise healthy. Whether or not you believe HFCS is bad, it is good to at least understand what kinds of foods actually contain HFCS, so that if you do want to avoid the controversial ingredient, you can do so. Here are some highly popular foods that contain HFCS, and ways you can circumvent consumption:
1. Juice Cocktails
If a juice drink is not made with 100 percent juice, it generally contains a large amount of HFCS, along with other artificial and natural ingredients and flavors. Some examples include: Ocean Spray Cranberry Juice, Capri-Sun Juices, and Tropicana OrangeAde.
Non-HFCS Solution: Opt for buying drinks that are 100 percent pure juice. Even better, eat the fruit. This will give you the fiber benefits as well.
2. Soda
Believe it or not, even sodas containing some juice have HFCS. This includes Orangina, a seemingly healthy soda.
Non-HFCS Solution: Try mixing 100 percent juices with seltzer for a sweeter, more natural alternative. Also, San Pellegrino soda flavors uses all cane sugar and no HFCS.
3. Breakfast Cereal
Even seemingly healthy breakfast cereals contain HFCS. For instance: Kellogg’s Raisin Bran Crunch, Special K, and Smart Start Healthy Heart.
Non-HFCS Solution: Read nutrition labels carefully when in doubt. However, some good brands to try include: Kashi and Nature’s Path.
4. Yogurt
Once again, seemingly healthy foods like yogurt often contain HFCS. Often, it is found in those that contain “fruit” and other sweetened varieties, such as Dannon and Yoplait.
