You may already be aware the dangers refined sugars pose to your health. In the past few years, articles, news stories, researchers and doctors have made headlines opening your eyes to how much sugar is in your food, while also urging change in the American diet.

Did you know that Americans consume 13 percent of their calories from added sugars? In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), on average, Americans are consuming 156 pounds of added sugar each year. This is a 39 percent increase since the 1950s.

What about high fructose corn syrup (HFCS)? Does this ingredient have the same effect on your body as refined sugar?

HFCS is basically corn syrup that has gone through processing to convert its glucose into fructose. It's used to make your food sweeter.

One of the reasons it is so widely used is that HFCS is cheaper than sugar. In fact, 90 percent of sweetened cola drinks list HFCS as the most common ingredient after carbonated water. It is also found in processed foods such as breads, yogurts, salad dressing, cereals, crackers, children's vitamins, and desserts.

What kinds of illnesses can be traced to high-sugar diets?

When it comes to your health, sugar can be the biggest culprit to the millions of people who are suffering from obesity, diabetes and other health-related issues.

Why has HFCS been under the radar for all these years, even though it's one of the main ingredients in your food?

The corn industry is one of the most subsidized industries in the U.S. According to the USDA, U.S. corn production is expected to reach the 14-billion bushel mark. When you see HFCS on a label, you may associate corn as a vegetable and assume it's healthier than sugar. However, the corn used in HFCS is considered a grain (not a vegetable) and there is a difference between HFCS and an ear of corn.

What else do you need to know about refined sugar, natural sugars, and high fructose corn syrup?

Doug Ingoldsby, the founder of ALL ONE, joins Dr. Holly to discuss the difference between refined sugar and HFCS, why HFCS has been under the radar all these years, and why it's important to always read your food labels.