Glyphosate isn’t just a buzzword—it’s something that affects all of us, especially when it comes to reproductive health. This widely used herbicide has made its way into our food, water, and even our bodies, raising big concerns about its impact on fertility and pregnancy.
If you’re trying to conceive, already pregnant, or just looking to support your overall health, understanding glyphosate’s effects is important. Let’s break down what glyphosate is, how it can impact fertility for both men and women, and what it means for pregnancy and newborn health. We’ll also share practical ways to reduce your exposure and highlight key nutrients that can help support your body’s exposure.
What is glyphosate?
Glyphosate, the active component in the herbicide Roundup, was introduced in 1974 to kill weeds. Its use skyrocketed in the 1990s with the introduction of genetically modified (GMO) crops engineered to resist glyphosate. This meant that farmers could spray glyphosate directly on crops without harming them, increasing its presence in our food supply and environment.
Concerns about glyphosate's health effects emerged in the early 2000s when studies suggested it could disrupt hormones. In 2015, the World Health Organization’s International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified glyphosate as "probably carcinogenic to humans." More recently, studies have linked glyphosate exposure to fertility issues and complications during pregnancy.
Related: Beyond the surface: Endocrine disruptors and their impact on fertility
Glyphosate and fertility: How it affects reproductive health
One of the most alarming effects of glyphosate exposure is its ability to disrupt reproductive health. Glyphosate is classified as an endocrine disruptor, meaning it interferes with hormone production and balance. This can have significant consequences for both men and women trying to conceive:
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Women: Glyphosate has been shown to impair ovarian function, disrupt estrogen production, and lead to irregular menstrual cycles, making conception more difficult.
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Men: Exposure has been linked to reduced testosterone levels, lower sperm quality, and decreased sperm count, all of which can impact fertility.
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Miscarriage risk: Some studies indicate that glyphosate exposure may increase the risk of miscarriage by affecting embryo implantation and early pregnancy development.
One of the first steps I recommend, when working with clients who are struggling with fertility, is assessing and reducing their exposure to environmental toxins, especially glyphosate. In practice, even small dietary changes, like choosing organic produce and avoiding processed foods made with conventional wheat, soy, and corn, can significantly lower glyphosate levels in the body over time.
Supporting detoxification through targeted nutrients can also make a meaningful difference. For example, N-acetylcysteine (NAC), known for boosting glutathione and promoting mitochondrial function, plays a key role in reproductive wellness, particularly egg quality. This is one reason why supplements like WeNatal Egg Quality+ include NAC, offering an added layer of support for those working to optimize fertility in a toxin-heavy world.
Glyphosate and pregnancy: Risks to mother and baby
For those who are pregnant, glyphosate exposure raises additional concerns. This chemical can cross the placental barrier, impacting fetal development in several ways:
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Birth defects: Studies have linked glyphosate exposure to an increased risk of congenital abnormalities.
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Low birth weight: Babies exposed to glyphosate in utero may be born smaller, which can have long-term health effects.
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Preterm labor: Exposure to glyphosate has been associated with a higher risk of preterm birth, which can lead to complications for newborns.
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Developmental concerns: Even at low levels, glyphosate exposure during pregnancy can impact fetal organ development and long-term health.
When working with expectant mothers, I emphasize the importance of minimizing toxin exposure by focusing on a clean, nutrient-dense diet. Eating a variety of colorful, antioxidant-rich foods and staying well-hydrated can help support the body’s natural detoxification pathways during pregnancy.
Glyphosate and newborn health
The risks of glyphosate exposure don’t stop at birth. Glyphosate has been found in breast milk, which means newborns can be exposed through breastfeeding. Since infants have underdeveloped immune and nervous systems, they are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of toxins. Potential impacts include:
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Disrupting gut bacteria: Glyphosate can harm beneficial gut bacteria, which are essential for digestion, immunity, and overall health.
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Affecting brain development: Some research suggests glyphosate may impact cognitive and neurological development.
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Weakening the immune system: Early exposure to toxins like glyphosate may impair immune function, making infants more susceptible to illness.
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Epigenetic concerns: Some scientists believe glyphosate exposure could have generational effects, impacting future children and grandchildren.
How glyphosate ends up in our food
Glyphosate is most commonly found in conventionally grown crops, particularly genetically modified (GMO) varieties. These crops are specifically engineered to tolerate glyphosate, meaning they can be sprayed repeatedly without dying. While this benefits large-scale agriculture by improving crop yields and reducing weed growth, it significantly increases the amount of glyphosate residue in the final food products we consume.
Additionally, glyphosate is often used as a pre-harvest desiccant, meaning it is sprayed on non-GMO crops like wheat, oats, and legumes just before harvest to speed up the drying process. This practice increases the amount of glyphosate found in food staples, even if they are not genetically modified.
Some of the worst offenders include:
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Non-organic oats found in cereals and granola
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Wheat used in bread, pasta, and crackers
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Corn found in corn syrup, tortillas, and chips
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Soy soybean oil, soy protein, and tofu
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Lentils and chickpeas are often sprayed before harvest
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Almonds and sunflower seeds
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Non-organic fruits and vegetables, especially the Dirty Dozen which are the top 12 most pesticide-laden produce items, per the Environmental Working Group
Even foods labeled “natural” or “non-GMO” can still contain glyphosate due to cross-contamination from water, soil, or processing facilities. This makes vigilance in food sourcing and label reading crucial for reducing exposure.
I encourage clients to prioritize organic versions of the most heavily sprayed foods, particularly grains and legumes. When switching to organic isn’t possible, focusing on diverse, whole-food choices can help limit cumulative exposure.
Related: What to know about the Mediterranean Diet for fertility—aka the fertility-boosting diet
How to minimize glyphosate exposure
I find in practice that many people can feel overwhelmed when trying to eliminate all sources of glyphosate from their diet. Instead of aiming for perfection, I encourage clients to start by switching out their most frequently eaten foods, such as oats, wheat, and legumes, for organic alternatives. Small, consistent changes lead to the biggest impact.
While it’s nearly impossible to avoid glyphosate entirely, there are several ways to reduce exposure:
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Choose organic: Organic foods are grown without glyphosate, making them a safer choice.
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Look for glyphosate residue-free labels: Some companies test for glyphosate and label their products accordingly.
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Eat locally and seasonally: Smaller farms using regenerative or organic practices often use fewer chemicals.
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Avoid processed foods: Processed products commonly contain glyphosate-contaminated ingredients like soy, wheat, and corn.
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Wash produce thoroughly: A water-and-vinegar rinse can help remove some pesticide residues, though it won’t eliminate glyphosate completely.
Nutrients to help combat glyphosate’s effects
Certain nutrients can support detoxification and reduce the harmful effects of glyphosate exposure:
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Magnesium: Helps counteract glyphosate’s effects on gut health by supporting the integrity of the gut lining and promoting healthy digestion. WeNatal Rest + Digest includes magnesium to help restore balance in the gut and endocrine system, offering added support for those working to reduce the impact of glyphosate exposure.
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Sulfur (found in cruciferous vegetables): Aids liver detoxification and helps the body process harmful chemicals.
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Glutathione: A powerful antioxidant that neutralizes toxins and supports liver function.
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Zinc: Plays a crucial role in hormone balance, immune support, and reducing inflammation caused by toxins.
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Probiotics: Help restore beneficial gut bacteria disrupted by glyphosate, improving digestion and immune health.
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Folate: Supports reproductive health, detoxification, and fetal development.
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Vitamin C: Enhances the body’s ability to fight oxidative stress and supports detox pathways.
By nourishing your body with these key vitamins and minerals, you can support detoxification, balance hormones, and create a healthier foundation for fertility and pregnancy.
A note from WeNatal on glyphosate and fertility
Glyphosate is a hidden threat in our food system, impacting fertility, pregnancy, and newborn health. While avoiding glyphosate entirely may not be realistic, making informed food choices, focusing on whole foods, and supplementing with key nutrients can help protect your reproductive health.
At WeNatal, we believe in empowering families with knowledge and high-quality prenatal support. By staying informed and proactive, you can take charge of your health and create the best possible foundation for your future family.
References
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