It has been suggested that increased consumption of high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS)-sweetener, as a substitute for sucrose, may have contributed to the obesity epidemic by increasing energy intake and therefore body weight. This paper examines the differences in the satiety effects of a HFCS-sweetened drink, a sucrose-sweetened isoenergetic drink, a diet drink, and a no-energy control. Drink responses were measured in terms of appetite profile using visual analogue scales and as a possible change in satiety hormones: glucagon-like peptide 1, insulin, ghrelin, and glucose. This study revealed that despite differences in the biochemical properties of preloads containing sucrose, HFCS, or milk and differences in satiety mechanisms in relation to glucagon-like peptide 1 and ghrelin release, no differences in satiety, compensation, or overconsumption were observed. This paper was accompanied by an excellent editorial by Harvey Anderson who emphasized that a causal relationship between replacing sucrose with HFCS in beverages and the prevalence of obesity is not supported based on HFCS composition, biological actions, and its short-term effects on food intake. Moreover, the author noted that many countries where trade barriers have prevented the replacement of sucrose with HFCS are also affected by the obesity epidemic.
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