HFCS Equal to Sugar Metabolically Says New Study

SHREWSBURY, Mass.High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is equal to sucrose or common table sugar on a metabolic level, according to a new study published in the review journal Advances in Nutrition. In addition, the article states current research shows no unique relationship between consuming HFCS and the rise of obesity rates in the U.S. Consumption rates of HFCS in the United States have declined by 14% since 1999, while obesity rates have increased.

The article, which reviewed available sucrose, fructose and HFCS research, concluded there is overwhelming evidence to demonstrate HFCS is nutritionally equivalent to sugar and the human body metabolizes both equally. This opinion is in-line with the American Medical Association and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, both of which concluded that HFCS is not a unique cause of obesity.

In addition, the article notes some recent randomized clinical trials also have suggested there are no adverse effects on total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol or HDL cholesterol when consuming caloric sweeteners containing fructose, such as HFCS and table sugar, in moderation.

These findings suggest that we must be very cautious when attributing adverse health effects of fructose, HFCS or sucrose at normal, moderate consumption levels," said lead author James M. Rippe, M.D., founder and director of the Rippe Lifestyle Institute, and professor of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Central Florida. More research needs to be done, but what we do know is that consuming all foods in moderation, combined with regular physical activity, is key to maintaining a healthy body."