By now, you've more than likely seen one of the ads put out by the Corn Refiners Association. The ads tell the story of a "natural" sweetener made from corn. They go on to insinuate that high fructose corn syrup has been unfairly portrayed and that this truly American ingredient is fine in moderation. The campaign claims that high fructose corn syrup has the "same natural sweeteners as table sugar and honey." Since then, the association has released a number of ads with the same message.

But when push comes to shove, what are the facts about high fructose corn syrup? How is it made? Is it healthy in moderation to the body and the planet? Here are the facts, so that the next time you're asked, you can confidently dispel any high fructose corn syrup rumors.

You may have to have your DP now, and the fizzier the better, but later you will need your MD. You have always heard that sodas are not good for you. You have been told that the caffeine, sugar, or the artificial sweetener is the problem. Well, there is a hidden problem that goes on inside a carbonated beverage that you probably don’t even know about, and it is considered by most people to be the best part.