HFCS

If you're watching your sugar intake, take extra care to watch out for high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS). And if you're reading this and concerned about what you eat, you're probably already aware of high-fructose corn syrup. If not, read the links below or search for other articles for more information. Research has shown that HFCS is a huge contributor to obesity and various illnesses; especially because it comes in processed "foods." Here's an excerpt from an article by Dr. Mark Hyman, "The main reason you should give up high fructose corn syrup is that it's a big red flag for very poor quality food. If you see this ingredient on a label, I guarantee you the food is processed junk. So, if high fructose corn syrup is anywhere on the label, put it back on the shelf. You should never eat this food."

The problem I've encountered is that HFCS is EVERYWHERE. You know it's in soda, but it also likely in your ketchup, barbecue sauce, syrup, bread, yogurt, applesauce, peanut butter, salad dressing, crackers... you name it. Have I said this before - read the labels! Now most of you probably agree with me, but most of this "food" in the picture is not food. Though it is eaten regularly by many people and occasionally by a few people; it should not make up most of your caloric intake.

This is why we should try to stick with foods that are natural (in their natural state) or foods that have very few ingredients (ie. three to five). It's a challenge, but those foods are out there. In some stores, they stick all the healthy foods in one section which cracks me up and makes me sad for too many reasons to name.


These are two condiments that we like with no HFCS and low total sugar and/or sodium. Better yet, if you are efficient and good with time management and/or really want to save money and eat healthy, then try making your own ketchup or barbecue sauce. Looking for a yummy whole wheat cracker, try Triscuits Thin Crisps Original: they have only three ingredients!

Let me know your thoughts and if you have any great recipes for making these products or others on your own! Especially salad dressing, I need some good ones.


Action Item: Check your cabinets again. Are you eating HFCS that you don't know about?

For further reading: High Fructose Corn Syrup: Any Concerns? and The Not-so-sweet Truth About High Fructose Corn Syrup