High-Fructose Corn Syrup vs. Sugar

"Critics believe HFCS plays a direct role in obesity by disrupting normal metabolic functions. According to a recently published Princeton study, rats fed a diet rich in HFCS accumulated more belly fat and had higher levels of circulating triglycerides (i.e., fat) -- both of which are factors in metabolic syndrome, a precursor to heart disease -- than their sugar-fed peers. However, a number of nutrition experts dispute these findings, suggesting that the data produced inconsistent results. Previous studies have shown that fructose is metabolized differently than glucose and excessive amounts of fructose interfere with appetite-regulating hormones and lead to increased fat accumulation. But HFCS is not any higher in fructose than table sugar -- both are about 50 percent glucose and 50 percent fructose. And an excess of either is unhealthy." - AOL Health

High-Fructose Corn Syrup vs. Sugar - AOL Health

Michelle Obama Rejects Demonizing Twinkies In Her Anti-Obesity Crusade -- Politics Daily

Michelle Obama Rejects Demonizing Twinkies In Her Anti-Obesity Crusade -- Politics Daily

The 300-member grocery trade group Mrs. Obama spoke to on Tuesday represents major food, beverage and consumer products companies. The industry is already responding to consumer and government demand for healthier products and cutting back on ads tempting children with food heavy in sugar, salt, and calories. In introducing Mrs. Obama, Richard Wolford, the chairman, president and chief executive of Del Monte, and chairman of the Grocery Manufacturers Association, said the industry is "willing to do more" and "willing to go the extra mile."

Using her toughest language yet, Mrs. Obama told the group, "The truth is we don't have a moment to waste -- because a baby born today could be less than a decade away from showing the first signs of high cholesterol, high blood pressure, Type II diabetes, if he or she is obese as a child. A recent study even found that 3-year-olds who were obese already had one of the symptoms of heart disease."