High fructose corn syrup – a common liquid sweetener made from corn and commonly known as HFCS - has been the target of food and beverage industry scrutiny for many years, but what is the truth behind this often controversial ingredient?  You may have heard that HFCS puts people at higher risk of becoming obese or causing diabetes.  However, the science shows that this simply is not the case.  In fact, the American Medical Association has concluded that HFCS is not a unique contributor to either obesity or type 2 diabetes in the U.S.  The reality is that HFCS and sucrose (table sugar) are so similar that our bodies can’t even tell the difference between the two ingredients and process both in the same way.

So what does this mean for your diet?  When consumed in moderation HFCS is no more "dangerous" than other types of sugar.  It all comes down to moderation in all that we eat and drink. And, as we've said before, balancing the calories you consume from all that you eat and drink with those you burn through physical activity and exercise is the key to maintaining a healthy weight.

To find out more about some of the common ingredients in your favorite beverages visit LetsClearItUp.org.