Your Baby's Metabolism is Being Decided Right Now | Jessie Inchauspé

Mar 25, 2026

Jessie Inchauspé, a French biochemist and bestselling author known as the Glucose Goddess, explains how pregnancy nutrition helps shape a baby’s metabolism and long-term health. She discusses blood sugar management, the importance of choline, higher protein needs, and DHA omega-3s. Practical tactics include reducing glucose spikes and simple dietary steps to support fetal development.

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ANECDOTE

Jessie's Silent Miscarriage Sparked Her Research

Jessie shared her first pregnancy loss: a silent miscarriage at three months that she discovered at ultrasound and found emotionally devastating.
She uses the story to normalize miscarriage and explain why she researched pregnancy nutrition afterward.

ADVICE

Never Eat Sugar On An Empty Stomach

Avoid sugar first thing in the morning and eat a protein-rich breakfast to reduce cravings and large glucose spikes.
Jessie recommends following WHO guidance (~25 g added sugar/day) versus typical pregnancy intakes (~80 g/day).

INSIGHT

Widespread Choline Deficiency Threatens Fetal Brain

Choline is critical for fetal brain development but 90% of pregnant women fall below recommended intake.
Major dietary sources are egg yolks and organ meats; one egg yolk's choline equals ~2 kg soybeans.

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Pregnancy is often filled with anticipation, excitement, and a lot of questions. But biologically, it’s also a powerful window when a baby’s metabolism and long-term health begin to take shape. On this episode of The Dr. Hyman Show, I talk with biochemist and bestselling author Jessie Inchauspé about how nutrition during pregnancy can influence a baby’s development and long-term health. Her new book, 9 Months That Count Forever, takes a closer look at the science behind these connections. Watch the full conversation on YouTube, or listen wherever you get your podcasts. We discuss: • Why pregnancy may be one of the most important windows for shaping lifelong health • Why balancing blood sugar during pregnancy matters—and simple ways to reduce glucose spikes • The nutrients that matter most during pregnancy, from choline and protein to omega-3s • How to make healthier choices during pregnancy without added stress or confusion This isn’t about being perfect. It’s about understanding what matters most and making small, consistent choices that support both you and your baby. View Show Notes From This Episode

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https://drhyman.com/pages/hyman-hive This episode is brought to you by Timeline, Sunlighten, Qualia, Korrus, Paleovalley and BIOptimizers. Receive 20% off a subscription at timeline.com/drhyman. Visit sunlighten.com and use code HYMAN to save up to $1400. Go to qualialife.com/hyman and use code HYMAN at checkout for an extra 15% off. Upgrade your lighting. Enjoy 15% off at korrus.com/drhyman. Head to paleovalley.com and use code HYMAN20 for 20% off your first order. Head to bioptimizers.com/hyman and use promo code HYMAN at checkout to save 15%.

(0:00) Impact of diet on baby's genetic plan and catching up with Jessie Inchauspé

(2:08) Influence of pregnancy on new book and personal story of miscarriage

(5:32) The importance of diet and placenta's role in pregnancy

(9:02) Explanation and importance of epigenetics in pregnancy

(12:12) Blood sugar management and pregnancy nutrition pillars

(20:12) The impact of glucose on pregnancy and neurodevelopment

(26:32) Managing blood sugar and gestational diabetes risks

(33:50) Interpreting symptoms and the importance of protein during pregnancy

(37:50) Practical dietary advice for pregnant women

(41:50) The role of omega-3 fatty acids and supplementation advice

(50:17) Dr. Hyman's experiences in patient care and epigenetic implications

(53:52) Jessie Inchauspé's book and social media details

(54:27) Closing remarks and podcast information