Why Jessie Inchauspé's Pregnancy Rewrote Her Health Beliefs

Meet the Expert

Jessie Inchauspé is a French biochemist, global bestselling author, and the creator of the widely popular Glucose Goddess platform. Through her research-backed education and accessible storytelling, she helps people understand the science of blood sugar and how small daily habits can improve energy, cravings, mood, and long-term health. Before launching her health education work, Jessie studied biochemistry at Georgetown University and worked in the field of genetics at 23andMe. She is also a new mom to a baby boy, which has brought even deeper insight into how profoundly pregnancy and postpartum shift the body, brain, and daily life.

The Unexpected Journey of Motherhood

In a candid conversation, Jessie opens up about the emotional and physical challenges of becoming a parent. She shares that even with her deep scientific knowledge, nothing could prepare her for the reality of pregnancy and postpartum.

Liz Tenety asked if there was anything about pregnancy or postpartum that surprised her. Jessie responded with an emphatic "everything!" She recounted her first pregnancy, during which she experienced a silent miscarriage at three months. This was a harsh reality check that challenged her previous assumptions about the certainty of pregnancy.

She also discussed the emotional rollercoaster of pregnancy, noting how her usual meals affected her differently, and how tired and emotional she felt. Postpartum, she found it even more challenging than she expected. She was unprepared for the amount of time spent on sleep-related tasks, such as rocking her baby to sleep.

Shifting Mindsets and Finding Grounding

Jessie reflected on how motherhood shifted her mindset, which had always been one of control and optimization. She realized that taking care of a baby required letting go of all control and embracing the unpredictability of life.

To stay grounded, she finds moments of connection during bedtime routines. These are the times when she feels present and grateful for her baby’s presence. She reminds herself that these early moments will be cherished in the future.

The Origins of the Glucose Goddess

Jessie's journey into health began at 19 when a traumatic experience led her to discover the impact of glucose on her well-being. After suffering from panic attacks and depression, she tried a glucose monitor and noticed a correlation between her symptoms and glucose spikes. This discovery transformed her life, leading her to explore the science of blood sugar and its effects on overall health.

Understanding Glucose and Its Impact

Glucose is the body's primary source of energy. While a little glucose is beneficial, too much can lead to spikes that increase inflammation and accelerate glycation. These spikes can cause fatigue, cravings, and even mental health issues.

Pregnancy and Glucose Management

During pregnancy, baseline glucose levels tend to be lower, and the body processes glucose more slowly. This means pregnant women need to be especially mindful of managing glucose spikes to maintain their health and well-being.

Practical Advice for Postpartum Women

Jessie acknowledges that postpartum can be exhausting, and eating well can feel overwhelming. Her advice is simple: focus on protein. Whether it's a hard-boiled egg, Greek yogurt, or peanut butter, protein is a reliable source of nourishment when other options seem unclear.

Sharing Health Information Responsibly

In today's online environment, Jessie emphasizes the importance of being cautious. She advises listeners to look for nuanced information and verify claims by checking original studies. With the help of AI, she suggests copying and pasting paper URLs to get balanced summaries.

The Role of Glucose Monitors

Jessie is a strong advocate for glucose monitors. She recently recommended a new brand called Stello, which offers an affordable option without a prescription. For those without access, she suggests keeping a food diary to track how different foods affect energy levels and cravings.

Superpowers of Motherhood

When asked about her superpowers as a mother, Jessie humorously noted her newfound efficiency. She has become more efficient at handling daily tasks, feeling more productive than ever before.