854. The Science of Pregnancy Nutrition (What Most Doctors Don’t Tell You) with Jessie Inchauspé - Almost 30 Recap

Podcast: Almost 30

Published: 2026-03-19

Guests: Jessie Inchauspé

What Happened

Jessie Inchauspé, known as the 'Glucose Goddess,' appears on the 'Almost 30' podcast to discuss her latest book, 'The Nine Months That Count Forever: How Your Pregnancy Diet Shapes Your Baby's Future.' She focuses on the vital role of prenatal nutrition, which includes key nutrients like choline, DHA, protein, and glucose, in shaping the lifelong health of a child.

Inchauspé recounts her personal experience with a silent miscarriage, describing the emotional toll it took and how it informed her approach to pregnancy nutrition. She stresses that the common belief that 'your baby will take what he needs from you' is a myth, highlighting that inadequate nutrient intake can have long-term effects on a child's health.

Choline emerges as a critical nutrient, with 90% of mothers not consuming enough during pregnancy. It is essential for brain development, and its deficiency is linked with lifelong brain deficits. Inchauspé notes that eggs are a particularly good source of choline, while vegans may need to rely on supplements.

The episode also covers the importance of glucose management, as elevated glucose levels in the mother can lead to high glucose levels in the baby, resulting in potential health issues like inflammation and increased fat gain. Gestational diabetes is discussed as a risk factor for both mother and child.

Protein and omega-3s are other key nutrients highlighted. Pregnant women are advised to increase their protein intake, as inadequate consumption can affect both maternal and fetal muscle mass. Omega-3s, particularly DHA, are crucial for brain development and can reduce the risk of allergies and asthma in children.

Inchauspé underscores the impact of a mother's diet on epigenetics, which can influence a child's risk of developing conditions like diabetes later in life. The World Health Organization's recommendation to limit sugar intake during pregnancy to 25 grams per day is contrasted with actual intake levels, which are much higher.

Jessie Inchauspé's book serves as a science-based guide to navigating pregnancy nutrition, aiming to debunk myths and provide practical advice. The insights shared are rooted in her personal experiences and extensive research, offering a comprehensive overview of the nutrients that most significantly affect a child's future health.

Exercise during pregnancy is also addressed, not only for the physical benefits but for its positive impact on the baby's brain development. Physical activity can elevate BDNF levels, which help reduce anxiety symptoms in children and contribute to overall brain health.

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