My sister has been diagnosed with an intolerance to high fructose corn syrup. I wondered what you know about this, because it seems that so many people have never heard of it. My allergist said she must be missing an enzyme that would help digest it. Any information you can give us would be greatly appreciated.

—Elaine T.

Dear Elaine,

High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is NOT fructose. HFCS is a refined sugar product that is contributing to illness in a big way in this country. This is the truth despite what the counter ads from food manufacturers say to promote the safety of HFCS.

Fructose is sugar found naturally in fruit. Our bodies do fine with this form of sugar. However, HFCS comes from a lab.

Simply check the labels and eliminate all foods with HFCS. To sweeten your sister’s food, tell her to purchase stevia—a sweet and natural herb powder—from a health food store. It can also be found in the liquid form, which may be the easiest.