High fructose corn syrup is a nasty ingredient. Unfortunately, it's in a lot of products that people consume daily if they're eating a standard American diet. The most common way most people consume high fructose corn syrup is through soft drinks.
A recent study found that even just one 12 oz. can of soda sweetened with high fructose corn syrup can increase one's risk of colorectal cancer. High fructose corn syrup is high in fructose, just like it sounds. Fructose is a form of sugar. High consumption of sugar directly feeds cancer cells, boosting their growth.
We know that high sugar consumption is harmful to our health because it promotes obesity and all of the diseases associated with it. Cancer is one of those diseases. However, the study found that the risk of colorectal cancer increased with the consumption of high fructose corn syrup independent of obesity. In other words, people do not have to be obese to be at risk of colorectal cancer if they're consuming sugary beverages that contain high fructose corn syrup.
In the past 30 years, the incidence of colorectal cancer in adults ages 25-50 has sharply increased. Obesity rates in this age group have risen as well. High fructose corn syrup could be to blame. So think about that the next time you reach for an ice cold can of soda. Actually, don't reach for soda. Diet is no better than regular. Train yourself to not need soda. I promise that you can sit through a movie without it. Some people tell me that they can't, but then they try to do it, and find that it really is possible.
Ideally, I encourage my clients to choose plain water over any other beverage. However, I know this is easier said than done for a lot of people who have been drinking soft drinks (either regular or diet) for so long. There are soft drinks with alternative sweeteners that aren't as bad for you. Zevia is one brand that some people enjoy. Personally, I don't consume it, but I don't think there's any harm in using it to transition yourself off of corn syrup sweetened soft drinks. If you're feeling brave, you can quit soda cold turkey and go straight for sparkling water. Some people like the flavored varieties from Waterloo or La Croix. I'll consume these very occasionally, maybe in a social situation or something. My favorite is plain sparkling spring water, and this is what I recommend to my clients who aren't willing to forego their bubbles.
Are you a regular soda drinker who needs help quitting this stuff? I provide nutritional services in person in the Boise, ID area as well as online. You can contact me to learn more and to schedule a FREE 30-minute discovery call.
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