AMA declares high fructose syrup just as safe as other sweeteners

CHICAGO The American Medical Association yesterday announced its conclusion that high fructose syrup does not seem to contribute any more to obesity rates or other ill health effects than other calorie-containing sweeteners. However, the AMA asked for further investigations into the effects of high fructose syrup and other sweetening products on individuals’ health. The AMA reported its findings at its annual policy meeting in Chicago this week.

“At this time there is insufficient evidence to restrict the use of high fructose syrup or label products that contain it with a warning,” William Dolan, M.D., an AMA board member yesterday told the media. “We do recommend consumers limit the amount of all added caloric sweeteners to no more than 32 grams of sugar daily based on a 2,000 calorie diet in accordance with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.”

Sweeteners in the high fructose group are those items made from starches that come from staples like rice and wheat. High fructose syrups are commonly used as additives in foods like breakfast cereal, bread, desserts and soft drinks.

So far, only short term effects of high fructose use have been studied. The AMA has suggested that people should maintain a minimal use of items like high-caloric sweeteners, in order to control obesity and avoid some types of diabetes.