A new US study shows that high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) used to sweeten certain beverages has a similar impact on hunger and satiety as sucrose.

Researchers from the University of Washington asked 37 adult volunteers to consume cola sweetened with either sucrose, HFCS 42 (containing 42% fructose) and HFCS 55 (containing 55% fructose) in a random order. The calorie levels were identical. Standard breakfasts and lunches were provided in order to test the impact of the various colas on appetite, while profiling was used to assess subjective hunger and satiety. There were three control conditions involving a diet beverage, 1% fat milk, and no beverage.

The results showed no significant differences in how subjects responded to the various calorific beverages. While the milk and drinks containing HFCS and sucrose suppressed energy intake at lunchtime, the results were statistically significant only for the milk. The study did not provide evidence that commercial cola beverages sweetened with either sucrose or HFCS have significantly different effects on hunger, satiety, or short-term energy intakes.

For more information, see
Monsivais P et al (2007). Sugars and satiety: does the type of sweetener make a difference? American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vol 86, pp 116-23.

EUFIC related material:
Nutrition-Carbohydrates
Nutrition-Sugar
Nutrition-Understanding food