The High Fructose Corn Syrup Debacle
In recent years the literature grows on the dangers of high fructose corn syrup as a food additive. The corn industry and the sugar industry laud the substance but our bodies tell us different. Growing girths, increased rates of juvenile and adult onset diabetes tell a different tale.
Leptin
The fatty tissue in our body serve necessary functions. One of which is to secrete hormones that regulate our appetite and metabolism. Leptin is an important adipose derived hormone. Leptin is critical in controlling the appetite. Leptin resistance is a factor in obesity. According to a published study by the University of Florida a link between overconsumption of high fructose corn syrup exerts a dampening effect on the bodies ability to respond to the important communication this substance provides within the body.
UF researchers found that rats became resistant to leptin after being fed a diet high in fructose for six months. Although there were no visible signs this change was occurring, the fructose-fed rats gained considerably more weight than rats that never ate fructose when both groups were switched to a high-fat diet.
Typically, leptin resistance develops with obesity, but this study showed that high dietary fructose causes a “silent” leptin resistance, Shapiro said. It develops undetected, but when the high-fat diet is introduced it causes greater than expected obesity.
Tips for Healthy Eating
1. If buying packaged food, read the labels and avoid products that contain high fructose corn syrup.
2. Avoid eating in between meals.
3. Eating whole foods provide a steady release of energy so that cravings are reduced.
4. Eat only when hungry.
5. Avoid eating after 6pm – 7pm.
6. Shop around for exercise dvd’s you enjoy so you can make exercise a regular habit.
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