Each sweetener has its own set of problems

I wonder if Al Schafbuch (“Corn sweetener gets sour reputation,” April 14) has a medical degree to go with his summation that high-fructose corn syrup is not harmful.

Some people have an intolerance for HFCS just as some have an intolerance for lactose. HFCS is the culprit in my case; it can cause a series of medical problems. I received this information from my gastroenterologist after performing a simple test to find out why I was having problems.

With the help of a Hy-Vee dietitian, I have learned to check every label before purchasing food products. I was amazed to find out how many products have HFCS as an ingredient: canned fruit, cereal, juice, bread as well as the sweet shoppe of candy, cakes, cookies.

Some companies making these products have learned of the misery of those with HFCS and have made adjustments to their products to fill a market for us. Learning about this has made a change in my life and I am sure others as well. Schafbuch can speak for himself, but not for me or the many others that suffer from this ailment. As we are learning more every day, the additives that are being put into our food can have serious health concerns for us all.

Janice Carson

Cedar Rapids