High-fructose corn syrup is an added sugar, meaning that it’s risky if an individual eats too much of it. According to Harvard Medical School, added sugars may increase a person’s risk of fatty liver disease, obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Research is ongoing into whether HFCS increases a person’s risk of these conditions more than other types of sugar.
High-fructose corn syrup breaks down more quickly in the gut than table sugar, and it’s easier to absorb, according to Cleveland Clinic. Insulin is not necessary for the body to absorb fructose, the way it is for glucose, and only liver, gut, muscle, and kidney tissue can absorb it.
Fructose may also contribute to a leaky gut and widespread inflammation. Leaky gut syndrome, a medical theory more than a true diagnosis, may increase a person’s risk of obesity, diabetes, chronic fatigue syndrome, arthritis, fibromyalgia, and asthma.
Cleveland Clinic also suggests that foods containing HFCS can trigger gout flare-ups for those with the condition.
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