High Fructose Corn Syrup vs. Evaporated Cane Syrup: A Dietitian's Perspective

Question
Hello there,

I am currently changing my diet lifestyle as much as possible to get over 'the plateau' in my weight loss.  I am eating more organic foods, avoiding processed foods as much as possible.  The main question I have is regarding High Fructose Corn Syrup.  I have heard/read so much that demonizes this, and I try to avoid it as much as possible.  However, I am finding that the alternative is usually Evaporated Cane Syrup/Juice.  Is this any better?  If not, please tell me why and if there are other options out there that I am not seeing.  Thank you very much for aiding in my quest to get rid of my abdominal fat!


Answer
Hello David!
 
   Thank you for your nutrition question. A growing number of nutrition experts believe that high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), the super sweetener Americans are consuming at unprecedented rates, is a leading cause of obesity. Organic evaporated cane juice is a better choice however, still has calories.  It comesr from sugar cane that goes through less processing than table sugars.    Some tips I would recommend in order to avoid HFCS are drinking unsweetened sparkling water drink- less apple juice or replace it with orange juice or grape juice. Grape juice is a high-calorie drink, but lower in natural fructose. Drop highly sweetened cereals (like some brands of Raisin Bran) in favor of sugar-free or low-sugar varieties. Look for yogurt that does not contain HFCS. Pancake syrup is out; real maple syrup is in.

For more answers to your nutrition questions check out "Ask the Nutritionists" by George Rapitis at www.authorhouse.com

-George Rapitis, Bsc. Nutritionist