Dr. Joseph Mercola - Take Control of Your Health

The Overlooked Environmental Trigger Behind Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes now affects nearly 1 in 10 U.S. pregnancies and raises long-term metabolic risks for both mother and child Research shows that exposure to PFAS, common industrial chemicals found in most people's bodies, increases the likelihood of gestational diabetes by disrupting normal blood sugar control PFAS exposure interferes with insulin signaling, increases insulin resistance, and forces your pancreas to work harder even before blood sugar levels appear abnormal Pregnancy magnifies the effects of chemical exposure, with PFAS posing greater risk during specific stages when hormonal and metabolic demands are highest Reducing PFAS exposure and strengthening insulin sensitivity before and during pregnancy lowers metabolic strain and supports healthier blood sugar regulation