(PCM)…When it comes to weight loss, that is.
Researchers from the Rippe Lifestyle Institute and the University of Rhode Island placed 247 overweight participants on one of four low-calorie diets. Each diet contained the same amount of total calories and the same amount of calories from sugar; the difference was in whether it was from high fructose corn syrup or sucrose (table sugar).
They found that at the end of the study, dieters from all four groups had similar results in terms of decrease in weight, BMI, waist size and overall body mass. The researchers (who were funded by the Corn Refiners Association) reported that there is no unique relationship between consuming high-fructose corn syrup and obesity, adding:
“Common misunderstandings about HFCS have distorted public perceptions, pressuring food manufacturers to replace HFCS with sucrose and municipal and state legislators to mandate removal of HFCS from school nutrition programs. Our data suggest that such actions are pointless and potentially misleading to consumers, since HFCS and sucrose are nutritionally interchangeable.”
However, previous research has found a link between high fructose corn syrup and brain functioning, diabetes, anemia, and a number of other health problems. So whether you’re trying to lose weight or not, it’s still a good idea to watch your intake. Cut back on the sweets, and when you do indulge, look for naturally-sweetened products, like those made with honey, agave nectar, and stevia.
