Processed foods are high in added sugars, leading to several health risks.
Added sugar is an ingredient added to food during processing that is not naturally occurring.
Common examples of added sugars include white sugar, brown sugar, honey, molasses, corn syrup and high fructose corn syrup.
High Fructose Corn Syrup
High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a sweetener made from corn. It is found in many processed foods and drinks, including soft drinks, condiments, and bakery products.
While it has been used for decades, there has been a recent surge in concern about the health effects of HFCS.
The main concern with HFCS is that it contains added fructose, a simple sugar metabolized differently than other sugars.
Studies have linked high consumption of fructose to an increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic health conditions.
Additionally, it has been suggested that HFCS may contain contaminants from the manufacturing process, such as mercury.
Fructose
Fructose is harder to metabolize than other types of sugar because it is not readily absorbed in the small intestine. Instead, it has to undergo a series of metabolic processes in the liver before it can be used for energy. This process takes longer and is less efficient than the body’s absorption of other types of sugar, like glucose.
Fructose is also known to cause spikes in insulin levels, which can lead to several health problems.
These added sugars can be found in various processed foods, including breakfast cereals, yogurt, sauces and dressings, energy bars, and baked goods such as cakes and cookies.
While some added sugars could provide flavour and texture to foods, consuming too much-added sugar can harm health.
Eating a diet high in added sugar has been linked to an increased risk of obesity, type-2 diabetes, heart disease and other chronic diseases. Consuming too much-added sugar can also cause cavities and tooth decay.
For these reasons, it is important to read food labels and become aware of the added sugars in your foods.