Jessie Inchauspé: 90% of Pregnant People Are Missing THIS Nutrient (Follow THIS Simple Diet To Reduce Glucose Spikes & Protect Your Baby’s Brain & Metabolism)
In this episode of On Purpose with Jay Shetty, Jessie Inchauspé discusses how maternal nutrition during pregnancy affects a child's lifelong health. Drawing from her book "Nine Months That Count Forever," she explains how a mother's diet influences her baby's metabolism, brain development, and disease risk, while addressing common misconceptions about pregnancy nutrition and caloric needs.
The discussion covers specific nutrients crucial for fetal development, including choline, omega-3 fatty acids, and protein, along with practical dietary strategies for managing pregnancy-related challenges like morning sickness. Inchauspé also shares her personal experience with pregnancy loss, discussing the emotional impact of miscarriage and the role of community support in the healing process.
This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Feb 23, 2026 episode of the On Purpose with Jay Shetty
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1-Page Summary
Maternal Nutrition in Pregnancy and Child's Long-Term Impact
Jessie Inchauspé, in her book "Nine Months That Count Forever," reveals how a mother's nutrition during pregnancy profoundly influences her child's lifelong health. She explains that maternal diet shapes the baby's metabolism, brain development, and disease risk, with specific nutrients playing crucial roles in development.
Key Nutrients and Their Impact
According to Inchauspé, blood glucose levels during pregnancy can program a child's susceptibility to type 2 diabetes. She highlights that choline and omega-3 fatty acids are essential for brain development, recommending four eggs daily and omega-3 supplements. Additionally, she emphasizes that adequate protein intake (1.5-1.6 grams per kilogram of body weight) is vital for the baby's muscle development and metabolism.
Common Pregnancy Diet Misconceptions
Inchauspé challenges the myth that pregnant women should freely indulge their cravings. She explains that pregnancy only requires about 20% more calories, not double portions. She warns that modern diets often leave 90% of mothers nutrient-deficient, particularly in choline, protein, and omega-3s.
Managing Pregnancy Challenges Through Diet
For first-trimester nausea, Inchauspé recommends protein-rich foods and regular meals to stabilize blood sugar. She advocates for gentle exercise like walking, citing studies showing benefits for the baby's brain development and metabolism. To make dietary changes less stressful, she suggests practical solutions like taking pasteurized vinegar before carbs to reduce glucose spikes.
Personal Experience with Pregnancy Loss
Inchauspé shares her emotional journey through a silent miscarriage, highlighting the common yet rarely discussed nature of pregnancy loss. She describes the challenge of rebuilding trust during subsequent pregnancies and emphasizes the importance of community support in the healing process. Through therapy and conversations, she learned to balance grief with hope while accepting the unpredictable nature of pregnancy.
1-Page Summary
Additional Materials
Counterarguments
- While maternal nutrition is important, genetic factors also play a significant role in a child's health and development, which the text does not emphasize.
- The recommendation of four eggs daily may not be suitable for everyone, as individual cholesterol levels and dietary restrictions vary.
- Omega-3 supplements can be beneficial, but it's also important to consider the source and quality of the supplements, as well as potential environmental contaminants like mercury in fish oil.
- The protein intake recommendation of 1.5-1.6 grams per kilogram of body weight may not be appropriate for all pregnant women, as nutritional needs can vary based on individual health, activity level, and stage of pregnancy.
- The claim that 90% of modern diets leave mothers nutrient-deficient could be an overgeneralization and may not account for regional dietary differences and access to diverse food sources.
- The suggestion to take pasteurized vinegar before carbs to reduce glucose spikes is not a widely recognized or studied intervention and may not be effective or suitable for everyone.
- The benefits of gentle exercise like walking are well-documented, but the text does not acknowledge that some pregnancies may have complications that limit the ability to exercise.
- The discussion of pregnancy loss is important, but the text does not address the full range of medical, psychological, and social factors that can contribute to miscarriage and the healing process.
- The emphasis on diet and exercise may inadvertently imply that mothers have more control over pregnancy outcomes than they actually do, which could contribute to feelings of guilt or blame in cases of adverse outcomes.
Actionables
- You can create a personalized nutrition tracker to monitor your intake of key nutrients like choline, omega-3s, and protein. Use a simple spreadsheet or a free mobile app to log your daily food consumption, focusing on these nutrients. Set reminders to update your tracker after each meal and review weekly summaries to ensure you're meeting your nutritional goals.
- Develop a routine that incorporates gentle exercise into your daily schedule. Start with a goal of a 15-minute walk each day, gradually increasing the duration as you feel comfortable. To stay motivated, pair up with a friend or join a local walking group for pregnant women, making it a social activity as well as a health-promoting one.
- Form or join a support group for expectant mothers focusing on emotional well-being, especially for those who have experienced pregnancy loss. Use social media platforms or community bulletin boards to connect with others. Regular meetings, whether virtual or in-person, can provide a space to share experiences, coping strategies, and foster a sense of community during the pregnancy journey.
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Maternal Nutrition in Pregnancy and Child's Long-Term Impact
Jessie Inchauspé raises awareness about how a mother's nutrition during pregnancy can profoundly shape her child's future health.
Nutrition Sets a Child's Health Trajectory For Life
Jessie Inchauspé in her new book, "'Nine Months That Count Forever," illuminates how a pregnant woman's diet influences her baby's entire life, affecting metabolism, brain development, and disease risk. She presents a picture of the baby preparing for the world based on maternal diet, while also expressing concern that the current food landscape may not be aligned with the best interests of pregnant women or fetal health.
Maternal Diet in Pregnancy Shapes Child's Metabolism, Brain Development, and Disease Risk
The dietary choices made during pregnancy have a lasting impact on a child's development. Inchauspé explains that if the mother's diet is high in sugar, the baby may become more vulnerable to diseases and could be programmed for efficient fat storage. Moreover, high maternal glucose levels can lead to an overactivity of microglia in the baby's brain, impacting healthy neurons. Insufficient protein in the maternal diet signals to the fetus to prepare for survival in a low-protein environment, which can affect the child's muscle mass and metabolism.
Key Nutrients Impacting Baby's Long-Term Health
Gestational Glucose Levels Program Child's Type 2 Diabetes Risk
The amount of glucose in a mother's bloodstream can program the baby's DNA toward higher susceptibility to type 2 diabetes. High blood sugar levels during pregnancy not only increase the likelihood of the child developing type 2 diabetes, but studies also show a difference in diabetes rates by age 22 between babies born to mothers with gestational diabetes versus those without. Inchauspé cites correlation between a mother's glucose levels and the baby's fat mass at birth, highlighting that lower sugar intake during pregnancy can reduce a child's vulnerability to type 2 diabetes as seen during UK sugar rationing from 1940-1953.
Choline and Omega-3s Are Essential for Brain Development
Choline and omega-3 fatty acids are essential for brain development, w ...
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Maternal Nutrition in Pregnancy and Child's Long-Term Impact
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Clarifications
- Microglia are immune cells in the brain that protect and maintain neural health. They remove damaged cells and help shape brain development by pruning unnecessary neural connections. Overactivity of microglia can cause inflammation and damage healthy neurons. Proper regulation of microglia is crucial for normal brain growth and function.
- Maternal glucose levels influence the baby's development through epigenetic changes, which modify how certain genes are expressed without altering the DNA sequence itself. High glucose can trigger chemical tags on DNA or histones, affecting genes that regulate metabolism and fat storage. These changes can persist after birth, shaping the child's risk for diseases like type 2 diabetes. This process is called fetal programming and helps the baby adapt to the expected environment based on maternal signals.
- "Programming" a fetus refers to how the developing baby adapts its growth and metabolism based on signals from the mother's nutrition. When protein is low, the fetus adjusts by prioritizing vital organs and altering muscle and metabolic development to survive in a nutrient-poor environment after birth. This adaptive response can lead to long-term changes in the child's health, such as reduced muscle mass and altered metabolism. These changes may increase the risk of chronic diseases if the postnatal environment is nutrient-rich.
- Choline is vital for forming cell membranes and producing neurotransmitters, which support memory and brain signaling. Omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA, are key components of brain cell membranes and promote neural growth and connectivity. Deficiencies in these nutrients during pregnancy can impair cognitive function and brain structure development. They also influence gene expression related to brain health.
- Eggs are one of the richest natural sources of choline, a nutrient vital for brain development. One large egg contains about 147 mg of choline, making it an efficient way to meet daily requirements. Pregnant women need higher choline intake to support fetal brain growth and prevent neural tube defects. Consuming four eggs daily helps ensure sufficient choline levels without relying on supplements.
- Children's reaction times are often used as a simple measure of cognitive processing speed. Faster reaction times generally indicate more efficient brain function, which correlates with higher intelligence scores in adulthood. This relationship is supported by research showing that quicker responses in childhood predict better problem-solving and reasoning skills later in life. Therefore, improved reaction times linked to maternal nutrition suggest potential long-term cognitive benefits.
- The protein intake recommendation of 1.5 to 1.6 grams per kilogram means a pregnant woman should consume 1.5 to 1.6 grams of protein for every kilogram of her body weight each day. For example, a woman weighing 60 kg should aim for about 90 to 96 grams of protein daily. This higher intake supports fetal growth, placental development, and maternal t ...
Counterarguments
- The relationship between maternal diet and child health is complex, and while nutrition is important, genetic factors and postnatal environment also play significant roles in a child's development and health outcomes.
- The recommendation to consume four eggs daily for choline may not be suitable for everyone, considering individual health conditions, dietary restrictions, or concerns about cholesterol intake.
- The advice to supplement with two grams of omega-3 fatty acids daily may not account for the varying quality of supplements and the importance of obtaining nutrients from whole food sources when possible.
- The impact of maternal glucose levels on the child's risk of developing type 2 diabetes is influenced by multiple factors, and while maternal diet is significant, it is not the sole determinant.
- The historical data on sugar rationing and its impact on type 2 diabetes risk may not account for other lifestyle and environmental changes that occurred during the same period.
- The assertion that 75% of pregnant mothers do not meet the recommended protein intake could be based on specific populations and may not reflect global maternal nutrition trends.
- The emphasis on specific nutrients may overshadow the importance of a balanced and varied diet that includes all essential vitamins and minerals.
- The idea that insuffi ...
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Navigating Myths and Misconceptions in Pregnancy Diet
Jessie Inchauspé and Jay Shetty shed light on the myths surrounding pregnancy diets, addressing the misinformation that can compromise the health of both babies and mothers.
"Free Reign to Indulge Cravings Is a Harmful Myth"
Jessie Inchauspé confronts the myth that pregnant women have a license to indulge their cravings without limitations. She stresses that such beliefs can lead to negative consequences. For instance, cravings during pregnancy might be tied to nutritional deficiencies; cravings for strawberries and kiwi could indicate a lack of vitamin C, while a penchant for pickles might be related to a need for salt and iodine, which are crucial during pregnancy.
Babies Need a Slight Caloric Increase, Not Double
Inchauspé clarifies that pregnant women only need to consume food for approximately "1.2" individuals, not two. This means the caloric requirements during pregnancy are modestly heightened – at the end of pregnancy, the baby requisites just about 70 grams of glucose daily, which equals a cup and a half of rice.
High Sugar Intake in Pregnancy Programs Child's Metabolic Health
Inchauspé addresses the pitfalls of high sugar intake during pregnancy, urging mothers to stay within the World Health Organization's recommended limit of 25 grams per day — certainly not the 80 grams that most mothers currently ingest, which hikes the risk of diabetes in the baby. She explains that excessive glucose leads to inflammation and fat storage, both in the mother and the baby, setting the latter up for potential metabolic conditions later in life.
Pregnancy Is Active Co-creation With Mother's Diet
"Bun In the Oven" Metaphor Misleads - Diet Shapes Baby's Development
Countering the passive "bun in the oven" metaphor, Jessie Inchauspé emphasizes that pregnancy is an active co-creation, with the mother's diet playing ...
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Navigating Myths and Misconceptions in Pregnancy Diet
Additional Materials
Actionables
- You can track your nutritional intake using a food diary app to ensure you're meeting your dietary needs during pregnancy. By logging your meals, you can monitor your consumption of key nutrients like choline, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids, and adjust your diet accordingly. For example, if you notice you're not getting enough omega-3s, you might add a daily serving of walnuts or flaxseeds to your breakfast routine.
- Create a "craving substitution chart" to satisfy pregnancy cravings with healthier alternatives that provide similar flavors or textures but are more nutrient-dense. If you're craving something sweet like candy, you could swap it for a piece of fruit or a smoothie that includes fruits high in vitamin C, such as strawberries or kiwi. For salty cravings, try a handful of lightly salted nuts instead of reaching for chips or pickles.
- Engage in a weekly meal planning session to design a balanced diet that supports both your and y ...
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Coping With Pregnancy Challenges Through a Healthy Diet
Jessie Inchauspé provides practical advice for pregnant women to cope with various physical challenges by adopting specific dietary habits.
First Trimester Nausea: Nutrition Hacks to Help
Jessie Inchauspé suggests nutritional strategies to manage first-trimester nausea with a focus on balancing blood sugar levels.
Protein-Rich Snacks and Meals Can Ease Nausea
To help with pregnancy-related nausea, Inchauspé recommends including protein, such as eggs and almonds, in the morning and throughout the day. She personally kept almonds by her bed and preferred starting the day with protein over carbs, which seemed to balance the nausea effectively. Inchauspé emphasizes that eating protein regularly can be quite useful for managing this discomfort during pregnancy.
Fatigue and Cravings in Later Trimesters Require Balance
In addressing cravings and fatigue, Inchauspé warns against consuming sugar on an empty stomach due to blood sugar spikes that might affect both the mother and the baby.
Protein-Rich Meals Stabilize Blood Sugar and Energy Levels
As pregnancy advances, Inchauspé advises small meals that are well-rounded and protein-rich, like those containing fish and eggs, to stabilize blood sugar and maintain energy levels.
Walking Benefits Baby's Brain and Metabolism
Exercise, such as walking and light weightlifting, is beneficial according to Inchauspé. She shares a study indicating that offspring of physically active pregnant rats performed better in mazes and showed fewer anxiety symptoms, suggesting that gentle movement like walking or even calf raises post-meals ...
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Coping With Pregnancy Challenges Through a Healthy Diet
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Counterarguments
- While protein-rich snacks and meals may ease nausea for some, others may find that high-protein foods exacerbate their nausea, and they may need to explore alternative foods that are more tolerable.
- The advice to avoid sugar on an empty stomach is generally sound, but it's important to note that some pregnant women may have specific dietary needs or medical conditions that require a different approach to managing blood sugar levels.
- The recommendation for small, protein-rich meals to stabilize blood sugar and maintain energy levels may not be suitable for all pregnant women, as individual nutritional needs can vary greatly.
- The benefits of gentle exercise for fetal brain development and metabolism are supported by some research, but it's important to acknowledge that not all pregnant women may be able to engage in physical activity due to health concerns or complications.
- Animal studies, such as the one mentioned about physically active pregnant rats, may not directly translate to humans, and more human-specific research is needed to confirm these findings.
- The suggestion to use vinegar to reduce glucose spikes is interesting, but pregnant women should consult with their healthcare provider before trying this, as vinegar can cause issues for some individuals, and its safety and eff ...
Actionables
- You can create a morning routine that includes a protein-packed breakfast and a short walk to balance blood sugar and reduce nausea. Start your day with a smoothie containing Greek yogurt, chia seeds, and a handful of spinach to get a protein boost. Follow breakfast with a 10-minute walk around the block to aid digestion and stabilize glucose levels.
- Develop a snack strategy by prepping protein-rich snacks to have on hand throughout the day. Make a batch of hard-boiled eggs or almond butter energy balls on the weekend, and pack them in small containers. This way, you can quickly grab a snack when you feel nausea creeping in, ensuring you maintain stable blood sugar without the stress of meal prep.
- Integrate gentle movement into your dai ...
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Personal Experience of Pregnancy Loss and Grieving Process
Jessie Inchauspé shares an emotionally raw account of her encounter with pregnancy loss and articulates the complex grieving process that follows.
Miscarriage Despite "Doing Everything Right" Is Common and Painful
Jessie Inchauspé opens up about her excruciation following a "silent miscarriage," a heartrending event where the embryo ceased developing without any forewarning symptoms. She speaks to the stark reality that, despite abiding by every precaution, such as taking vital supplements and avoiding risk factors, she still suffered a miscarriage. Her story echoes the tales of many, as Jay Shetty acknowledges, putting a spotlight on the oft-shrouded grief and associated guilt that wrap around the struggle of conceiving post-miscarriage.
Grief Over Pregnancy Loss Is Often Misunderstood
Inchauspé sheds light on the loneliness that swamps many after a miscarriage, lamenting over how rarely individuals discuss these losses. She confesses her own search for solidarity in the experiences of public figures like Beyonce, who have navigated similar paths. She acknowledges that miscarriage-related grief is a specter not easily discerned, often leading to a spectrum of responses, from oblivious to empathetic.
Rebuilding Trust and Hope in a New Pregnancy Can Be Tough
Jessie reflects on the psychological toll of her miscarriage, discussing the challenge of letting joyful anticipation and love for her unborn child coexist with the dread of potential loss during a subsequent pregnancy. Her hesitancy to share news of a second pregnancy until six months in underlines the fragility of trust and hope in the face of prevous trauma.
Holding Space For Grief in Pregnancy Loss Is Crucial
The importance of community and support in the healing journey after a miscarriage is a crucial theme in Jessie's narrative.
Seeking Support and Community Provides Solace and Connection
In the aftermath, she discovers that many family members and friends had also endured miscarriages but ...
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Personal Experience of Pregnancy Loss and Grieving Process
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Actionables
- Create a personal ritual to honor the experience of loss, such as planting a tree or writing a letter to the unborn child, to help process grief in a tangible way.
- By establishing a personal ritual, you give yourself a physical and symbolic way to acknowledge your loss and the emotions that come with it. For example, planting a tree can serve as a living memorial that grows over time, symbolizing the ongoing journey of healing.
- Start a private online journal or blog to document your feelings and experiences after a loss, which can serve as a therapeutic outlet and a personal record of your emotional journey.
- Writing can be a powerful tool for healing. By keeping a journal or blog, you create a safe space to express your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. This can help you track your emotional progress and may even provide insights that lead to greater acceptance and understanding of your experience.
- Reach out to a friend o ...
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