High Fructose Corn Syrup: Just Say NO!

Articles by Dr. Erdman are for informational purposes, and are not to be taken as specific medical advice.

High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a somewhat controversial topic.  Let’s look at what it is, why it is used, where it is found, and finally how it affects your body.

HFCS is a sweetener made from corn.  They say it is 50 percent fructose and 50 percent sucrose, but research and analysis shows it is up to 65% fructose.

It is used because it is a cheap substitute for sugar.  The use of HFCS rose 135% between 1977 and 2001.  In 1966, sucrose (sugar) was used in 86% of sweeteners.  Today, 55% use corn.  That is good for corn farmers, but not for your health.  It is the #1 source of calories in the USA today.

Vitamin D, week 1 & 2

Articles by Dr. Erdman are for informational purposes, and are not to be taken as specific medical advice.

Week 1

One of the subjects I try to engage most patients in is that of nutrition and nutritional supplementation.  Coming into the winter months, a few words about vitamin D3 seem appropriate.

Did you know vitamin D is not really a vitamin at all?  It is a steroidal hormone precursor necessary to every cell in the body, yet not found in the natural food supply; except in eggs, liver and fatty fish.  Essentially, it affects your entire health condition.  Heart heath, skin health, the aging process, athletic performance, vascular system, immune system, bone health, carbohydrate and fat metabolism, and pregnant women all need optimal vitamin D levels.  If you are eating a low fat to no fat diet, you need even more vitamin D.  Dark skinned people need more than normal due to melatonin blocking UVB rays entering the skin.  Vitamin D regulates over 2000 genes in the body!