Question

What is high fructose corn syrup, and why is it so problematic from a human health point of view? What foods contain it?

A) High fructose corn syrup is a natural sweetener with no health concerns found in fruits and vegetables.
B) High fructose corn syrup is a type of fat that promotes cardiovascular health.
C) High fructose corn syrup is a highly processed sugar linked to obesity and other health issues, commonly found in sodas and processed foods.
D) High fructose corn syrup is a complex carbohydrate with no impact on human health, commonly found in whole grains.

Answer 1

High Fructose Corn Syrup is a sweetener linked to obesity and metabolic issues, largely because it's found in many cheap, processed foods.

Step-by-step explanation:

High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) is a highly processed form of sugar that is derived from corn starch. Unlike natural sugars found in fruits, HFCS is created through a series of enzymatic reactions that convert glucose to fructose, resulting in a sweetener that is used extensively in the food industry.

The main health concerns with HFCS arise from its link to increased risk of obesity, as well as other metabolic issues, particularly because it is found in a wide array of processed foods and soft drinks that are easily accessible and often cheaper.