“NAFLD is a serious problem and it is increasing in the population,” said researcher Dr. Theodore Friedman. “There is a racial/ethnic difference in the prevalence of NAFLD. People consume high fructose corn syrup in foods, soft drinks, and other beverages. Some studies suggested that consumption of high-fructose corn syrup is related to the development of NAFLD.”
Long-term health risks
The researchers analyzed data from over 3,200 people enrolled in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2017 to 2018. Participants reported on their food and drink consumption in 24-hour windows, and the researchers compared their self-reports with their long-term health outcomes.
Ultimately, the team found a link between consuming high fructose corn syrup and liver disease. Participants who consumed the most high fructose corn syrup had the highest risk of developing liver disease.
The researchers also found that there were significant differences in high fructose corn syrup consumption among racial and ethnic groups. Nearly 50% of Mexican Americans consumed the highest levels of high fructose corn syrup, followed by 44% of non-Hispanic Blacks and 33% of non-Hispanic whites.