Ban High-Fructose Corn Syrup

This Processed Sweetener Is Everywhere

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30 days to green your siet - cut down on high fructose corn syrup

Photo: Travis Manley / Istock

By Annie Bell Muzaurieta

30 Days to a Greener Diet - Day 23

Up for a challenge? Good. Because avoiding high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is hard. HFCS is a cheaply produced sweetener and preservative made from cornstarch, and it’s found in many of the processed foods we eat. These foods are often high in calories but low in nutritional value — snack foods, fruit-flavored items, condiments and soda all contain HFCS.

Some experts believe our high consumption of HFCS is contributing to our obesity problem, and increased rates of diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.

To begin the removal of HFCS from your diet, read the ingredient lists on the foods you regularly buy. Try to cut down on the ones that contain it. HFCS is found in common products such as bread; condiments such as ketchup, salad dressing and BBQ sauce; cereals; soda; and fruit-flavored drinks.

Aside from reading labels, you can buy artisan breads. Go with organic ketchup made with organic sugar, and make your own salad dressing. Avoid sugary cereals. You already know that water is always your best hydration bet, and that soda and artificially flavored fruit drinks should be consumed in moderation.

Try making your own salad dressing:
Arugula Vinaigrette