Tip of the Week

Hold the Fructose

Imagine. In a year, the average American consumes close to her entire body weight in high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) and refined sugar found in processed foods such as cookies, cakes, ketchup, canned and frozen fruits, juices and soft drinks. It's no wonder we have an obesity problem here in the U.S.

Whether HFCS is more or less responsible for obesity than refined sugar, a debate reported on in the New York Times on July 2nd, is basically beside the point. There is no debating the fact that when HFCS, which is cheaper than sugar, hit the market in the early 80s, soft drink consumption soared and super-sizing began in earnest. Nor is anyone debating the fact that starting also in the early '80s, there was a marked increase in obesity among both men and women.

Nutritionists widely agree that Americans consume too much fructose, which studies have shown the body metabolizes in a way that may promote weight gain. Apparently fructose does not prompt the production of certain hormones that help regulate appetite and fat storage. It does, however, produce elevated levels of triglycerides that researchers have linked to an increased risk of heart disease.

So what is there to debate on the matter? If diet and health concern you, then steer clear of highly processed foods, rich in fats and refined sugars. And if you are reading this, then consider following The Green Guide's "Eight Simple Steps to a Safer, Greener Diet" which have the added benefit of being good not only for you and your family but the planet. Now please, don't confuse the whole "green" thing with a life of bland tasting food and drink, we're not crunchy granola here. These simple measures are not about denial, but rather about bringing pleasure to a meal, whether it's a three course dinner or an afternoon snack eaten on the run. Go ahead, if you want that sweet thing, don't hold back. Just read the label carefully or if it's possible, add your own sweetener. Honey is great in an iced cappuccino, and provides some nutrients in the form of vitamins C, D, E and B-complex and traces of amino acids, enzymes and minerals. There's nothing to compare to fresh fruit in summer, now that's a sweet treat. Other sweeteners to choose: pure maple syrup; agave nectar; date sugar; xylitol, or birch sugar. Even raw cane sugar, maple sugar and Sucanat, a brand name for organically grown, dehydrated cane juice, to which no chemicals are added, will have some nutrients.

To buy the brochure, "Eight Simple Steps to a Safer, Greener Diet," with recipes and shopping suggestions, click here.

© The Green Guide, 2008

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