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High fructose corn syrup linked to liver disease

Category: Liver Diseases

Individuals who consume large quantities of high fructose corn syrup may benefit from a liver test, as a new study has found that, in addition to contributing to obesity, these compounds can lead to fatty build-ups in the liver than can cause scarring and other liver diseases.

Researchers tested the effects of the sweeteners on mice. One group was fed a diet rich in high fructose corn syrup, while another received a normal rodent diet. The tests found that the mice that received the less healthy diet developed fatty liver disease.

This disease can cause inflammation and scarring in the liver which can lead to fatigue, abdominal pain and, in severe cases, liver failure.

Rohit Kohli, who led the investigation, said that consumption of high fructose corn syrup has become extremely widespread, and that cutting back on them may help improve health.

"Fructose consumption accounts for approximately 10.2 percent of calories in the average diet in the U.S. and has been linked to many health problems, including obesity, cardiovascular disease and liver disease," he said.