Heart Risks Associated With High Fructose Corn Syrup

Dec 19, 2010 | By Ashley Tyson

High fructose corn syrup, also referred to as corn sugar, is a common ingredient in a variety of food items, particularly fruit juice and soda. MayoClinic.com says that this sugar is the most commonly used sweetener added to processed foods and beverages. American women should not consume more than 100 calories a day from added sugar and men, no more than 150 calories. High fructose corn syrup is also linked to an increased risk of heart conditions.

High Cholesterol

An April 2009 study published in "The Journal of Clinical Investigation" suggests of potential dangers related to high fructose corn syrup. The study found that the sweetener led to high blood levels of low-density lipoprotein, or bad cholesterol, in the tested population -- a group of 32 overweight men and women. LDL can accumulate in the arteries forming a plaque that restricts blood flow to and from the heart, appendages and the brain. This can lead to an increased risk of stroke and heart attack.

High Triglycerides

High fructose corn syrup may also increase the level of triglycerides in the blood, which is a fat the body uses for energy. An abundance of this substance, however, thickens the blood leading to an increased risk of stroke, heart disease and diabetes, according to MayoClinic.com. Normal triglyceride levels should be less than 15 mg per dL.

Coronary Heart Disease

The increase in cholesterol and triglycerides present in the blood significantly increases the chance of coronary heart disease. This condition affects more than 12 million Americans and is directly related to arterial plaque build-up, improper diet and triglycerides, according to Barry Cohen and Bobbie Hasselbring in the book "Coronary Heart Disease."