Yesterday I mentioned the first of two headlines featured in the Denver Post that directly relate to Family Nutrition… bottom line of STORY #1: What is eaten during pregnancy can affect a baby’s health and weight status! Today I continue with STORY #2: “Toxic metal detected in corn syrup“… as if there weren’t enough reasons to lay off of the regular soda!  Although this study was small (just 20 samples) it has significant implications because high fructose corn syrup is so prevelant in the typical American diet… and even traces can add up, especially for young children and teens.  Researchers found that there were traces of mercury in 9 of the 20 samples examined.  The toxic metal exposure comes as a result of a manufacturing process that helps extract high fructose conrn syrup from corn kernels. So, what do we do as a family??? First, check food labels before you buy… realize how many of the foods you regularly eat contain corn syrup as an ingredient. Where does corn syrup hide? Condiments/seasonings/sauces, cereal, processed breads, beverages, canned fruit, flavored yogurt… and many more!  Second, if there’s a close alternative (ie. different brand or similar food item) that does not contain corn syrup, buy this alternative product instead.  Third… and most important… shop around the outside of the grocery store to find whole, unproccessed foods… start with fruits and vegetables and lean cuts of meat, fish and poultry and choose dairy products without added sugar (ie. lowfat milk, plain yogurt, cottage cheese).  Finally, carefully navigate the center isles of the store… look for whole grains (brown rice, oats, corn tortillas, whole wheat pasta), canned beans/legumes, and minimally processed staples.  BOTTOM LINE: More research is needed to warrant a complete removal of corn syrup from our diets… but to be on the safe side, begin to wean your family off of this often-present ingredient by choosing nutrient-rich whole foods instead of highly processed foods and beverages!