A new study suggests high-fructose corn syrup may have something to do with the obesity epidemic facing the nation.

Princeton University researchers say consuming high-fructose corn syrup instead of regular table sugar (sucrose) leads to increased weight gain, even when the amount of overall calories remains the same.

In one study, scientists fed rats water sweetened with high-fructose corn syrup or sucrose in addition to their standard diet. Results showed that the rats who drank the high-fructose corn syrup water gained much more weight than the other group.

Another study found rats that ate a diet rich in high-fructose corn syrup over a six month period showed characteristic signs of a dangerous condition known in humans as the metabolic syndrome, including abnormal weight gain, significant increases in circulating triglycerides and augmented fat deposition.

"Some people have claimed that high-fructose corn syrup is no different than other sweeteners when it comes to weight gain and obesity, but our results make it clear that this just isn’t true," said professor Bart Hoebel.

Since high-fructose corn syrup was introduced into the American diet, rates of obesity have skyrocketed, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

It is found in a wide range of foods and beverages, including fruit juice, soda, cereal, bread, yogurt, ketchup and mayonnaise. On average, Americans consume 60 pounds of the sweetener per person every year.