Fructose Seems To Be The Sweetener That Increases Health Risks

Glucose may deliver more calories than fructose, but fructose contributes more to weight gain and other health problems, according to a study in lab animals by Spanish scientists.Animals that were fed fructose in addition to their regular diet showed more markers of vascular disease and liver damage than the glucose group (and the control group). These markers included high triglycerides, increased liver weight, decreased fat burning in the liver (contributing to fatty liver disease) and impaired relaxation of the aorta, which affects blood pressure. The findings suggest that increased calories from sweeteners isn’t the only factor in long-term health risks. The type of sweetener may be more important in increasing risk factors for heart disease, diabetes and other chronic diseases.  [ Image credit: © Fritzs  ]