Corn syrup sources, health risks

Corn syrup is the liquid sugar that was obtained by processing corn. The product, commonly confused with the harmful high-fructose corn syrup, is made from 100 percent glucose. An entry posted on the Cooking Light website noted that corn syrup is commonly used as a smoothing agent that inhibits sugar crystal formation in a variety of sugary products. According to the article, adding corn syrup to melted granulated sugar may inhibit the crystals from reforming and prevent ice cream and various sauces from turning gritty.

Harmful effects that can be caused by corn syrup

Corn syrup is made from pure glucose and is a commonly used additive and sweetener in sodas, sugary drinks, and other processed foods. This signals an increased risk of developing adverse metabolic conditions. Consuming foods high in corn syrup are known to raise blood sugar levels and elevate the risk of metabolic syndrome. Likewise, corn syrup is associated with high likelihood of excess weight and diabetes. The harmful food sweetener is found to increase the risk of high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels as well. This raises the red flag for heart attack and other cardiovascular diseases.

An entry featured on the Live Strong website also noted that consuming foods high in corn syrup may pose various detrimental effects on mental health, especially among children. The article cites an ADDitude study that found a link between corn syrup intake and child hyperactivity. Another study conducted by a team of researchers at the University of South Carolina also revealed that children who had higher corn syrup intake exhibited a more destructive and reckless behavior.

In another study, corn syrup has been implicated in mercury-related behavior changes. The study conducted at the Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy cautions that corn syrup may contain trace amounts of mercury that may negatively impact brain health. Health experts stress that mercury exposure has a detrimental effect on memory, attention, language skills and fine motor skills. Likewise, scientists warn that mercury exposure may cause brain and nervous system damage.

Corn syrup intake is associated with the onset of tooth decay and the overall decline in oral health as well. The harmful chemical is found to compromise blood circulation and may even lead to blood disorders such as anemia, according to an article posted on the Earth Clinic website. The artificial sweetener is also linked to a weaker immune system and a greater susceptibility to allergic reactions. Scientists note that allergic reactions stemming from corn syrup intake may include fatigue, irritability, and anxiety as well as night-waking and crankiness in children. Adults may also experience other reactions such as lightheadedness and headaches.

Body systems harmed by corn syrup

Corn syrup raises the odds of obesity and diabetes, which signals its negative effects on the body’s digestive tract. Likewise, the artificial sweetener is particularly harmful to heart health and blood circulation. The harmful ingredient is also detrimental to brain health and the body’s overall immunity.

Where to learn more

• Surprise! Corn syrup is playing hide-and-seek
• STUPID: Corn syrup for the apocalypse? Food storage companies use corn syrup solids to fatten you up
• Infant formulas loaded with corn syrup and sugar
• Salad dressings often loaded with corn syrup and other junk ingredients
• Nearly all gum and candy contain either toxic GMO corn syrup or nerve-disrupting aspartame

Summary

Corn syrup causes metabolic disorders including obesity and diabetes.

Corn syrup raises the risk of  heart disease and other cardiovascular issues.

Corn syrup triggers child hyperactivity, brain and nervous system damage.

Corn syrup ups the risk of anemia and compromises the body’s immunity.

Corn syrup is particularly detrimental to both heart health and digestive profile.

Corn syrup poses negative effects on brain health and the immune system.

Sources include:

CookingLight.com

LiveStrong.com

EarthClinic.com