High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is considered bad for health primarily due to its high fructose content and the way the body metabolizes it. HFCS consists of about 55% fructose and 45% glucose. Unlike glucose, which is used directly by almost all cells in the body for energy, fructose is metabolized in the liver where it can be converted to glucose, stored as glycogen, or converted to fat. Excessive intake of fructose, such as from HFCS, is linked to several health risks:
- HFCS adds an unnatural amount of fructose to the diet, much higher than was traditionally consumed from natural sources like fruits, leading to metabolic stress.
- It increases the risk of fatty liver disease by promoting liver fat accumulation, which can progress to serious liver conditions.
- HFCS consumption is associated with obesity and weight gain, particularly visceral fat, which surrounds organs and contributes to diseases like diabetes and heart disease.
- It contributes to insulin resistance, a precursor to type 2 diabetes, and is linked to metabolic syndrome, which includes a cluster of conditions raising the risk for heart disease.
- Excessive intake promotes inflammation and increases harmful substances like advanced glycation end products, which can damage cells and exacerbate diseases including gout.
- HFCS provides empty calories with no essential nutrients, displacing nutrient-rich food in the diet.
Overall, the excessive intake of HFCS and high fructose intake from added sugars is linked to obesity, diabetes, heart disease, fatty liver, and other inflammatory conditions, making it a significant concern for health when consumed in large amounts.
