High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a type of corn syrup that has been processed to contain higher levels of fructose. Corn syrup is made from corn starch and is composed of glucose molecules. HFCS also contains glucose, but it has been processed to convert some of the glucose into fructose.
Fructose is a simple sugar that is found in fruits and honey. It is also used as an ingredient in many processed foods and beverages.
HFCS has been used as a food sweetener since the 1970s. It is cheaper to produce than sucrose (table sugar) and has a longer shelf life. For these reasons, HFCS is often used in
NAFLD
A new study has found that consuming high fructose corn syrup may be linked to the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The new study, which was published in the journal Hepatology, looked at data from over 1,000 adults who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The participants were asked about their diet and lifestyle habits, and they underwent blood tests and liver scans.
NAFLD is a condition in which fat accumulates in the liver, and can lead to serious health problems such as cirrhosis and liver cancer.
Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis is a serious condition in which the liver becomes damaged and scarred. This can lead to a build-up of toxins in the blood, and can eventually lead to liver failure. People with cirrhosis often experience symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin).
Diabetes
High fructose corn syrup has been linked to the development of type 2 diabetes. This is because HFCS can increase the body’s resistance to insulin.
Type 2 diabetes is a condition in which the body does not properly use insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. When someone has type 2 diabetes, their pancreas either produces too little insulin or the body’s cells are resistant to insulin. This can cause the person’s blood sugar levels to rise, which can lead to serious health problems.
People with type 2 diabetes often experience symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, and increased thirst and urination.
Cardiovascular Disease
Cardiovascular disease is a general term for conditions that affect the heart or blood vessels. These diseases can include heart attacks, strokes, and high blood pressure.
High fructose corn syrup has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. This is because HFCS can increase the levels of triglycerides (a type of fat) in the blood. Triglycerides are a risk factor for heart disease.
People with cardiovascular disease often experience symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and irregular heartbeat.
Liver cancer
Liver cancer is a rare but serious type of cancer that can occur in people with NAFLD. Symptoms of liver cancer include weight loss, fatigue, and pain in the abdomen.
There are several risk factors for liver cancer, including obesity, diabetes, and hepatitis. Consuming high fructose corn syrup may also be a risk factor.
Factors other than HFCS are also involved majorly in damaging the liver. What can we do to protect our liver from diseases?
Prevention of liver diseases
To prevent any liver disease, you should follow the below mentioned ways
Maintain a healthy weight
Obesity is a major risk factor for NAFLD. Losing weight can help reduce the amount of fat in the liver and improve liver function.
Eat a healthy diet
Eating a healthy diet that is low in sugar, saturated fat, and calories can help reduce your risk of developing NAFLD.
Exercise regularly
Exercising regularly can help you lose weight, lower your cholesterol levels, and improve your insulin sensitivity. All of these factors can help reduce your risk of NAFLD.
Limit your alcohol intake
Drinking too much alcohol is a major cause of liver damage. If you drink alcohol, it is important to limit your intake to no more than two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women.
Get vaccinated
There are vaccines available that can help protect you from hepatitis A and B, two viruses that can cause liver damage.
Talk to your doctor
If you are at risk for NAFLD, it is important to talk to your doctor about ways to reduce your risk. Your doctor can also monitor your liver function and check for signs of liver damage. You can visit Best Hepatologist in Lahore or Best Hepatologist in Karachi.
