Phthalates, Bisphenol, and Gestational Diabetes: The Link

Your plastic food containers and personal care products are likely leaching phthalates into your system. A new study published in the Journal of the Endocrine Society found a direct link between these chemicals and gestational diabetes mellitus.

Researchers tracked pregnant participants and found that exposure to DEHP (a common phthalate) and other high molecular weight phthalates was positively associated with impaired glucose tolerance and higher blood glucose responses. In short: the chemicals used to make plastic flexible are actively messing with your metabolic health during pregnancy. You can read the full study here.

It is infuriating that these chemicals are still standard in consumer products. You cannot shop your way out of a broken regulatory system, but you can limit your daily intake. Start by ditching plastic food storage for glass or stainless steel and swapping out synthetic fragrances in your home.

We know how overwhelming this feels when you are expecting. You do not have to replace everything at once. Focus on the items that touch your food or your skin first. We have curated a list of non-toxic baby alternatives to help you make safer swaps for your nursery and home without the guesswork.

Source: Ard N, Baghsheikhi H, Shahin S, Albergamo V, Cowell W (2026). J Endocr Soc.