Is Glyphosate the Biggest Threat to YOUR Health?! Weed Killers and Diquat Exposed!
Dr. Steven GundryPublished on August 18, 2025
Summary authored by editor@wellifi.com
TLDR Summary
Glyphosate and diquat, prevalent herbicides in the U.S., pose serious health risks and are found in many common foods. By making informed dietary choices and considering supplements like glycine, individuals can reduce their exposure and improve their overall health.
Key Points
- Glyphosate and diquat are harmful herbicides found in many foods.
- Over 80% of Americans have detectable glyphosate levels in their urine.
- Top foods contaminated include oats, wheat, corn, soy, and certain juices.
- Practical steps to reduce exposure include choosing organic foods and avoiding processed cereals.
- Supplementing with glycine may help mitigate the effects of glyphosate.
Understanding Glyphosate and Diquat: The Hidden Dangers in Your Food
In today's health-conscious world, many people believe they are making safe choices by opting for organic or non-GMO foods. However, a shocking reality lurks beneath the surface: harmful chemicals like glyphosate and a newer herbicide called diquat are prevalent in our food supply. In this article, we will explore the dangers of these chemicals, identify foods most affected by herbicide contamination, and suggest practical steps to reduce your exposure.
What Are Glyphosate and Diquat?
Glyphosate is the most widely used herbicide globally, initially developed to kill weeds while sparing crops. However, as weeds evolved resistance, farmers began applying glyphosate in increasing amounts. Unfortunately, glyphosate is not just a weed killer; it was patented as an antibiotic, capable of disrupting the gut microbiome by killing beneficial bacteria. This disruption has been linked to various health issues, including leaky gut, mitochondrial dysfunction, anxiety, depression, and even cancer. A 2019 study revealed a staggering 41% increase in the risk of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma due to glyphosate exposure.
Alarmingly, a CDC study showed that over 80% of Americans, including 87% of children, have detectable glyphosate levels in their urine, with some babies being born with it due to maternal transfer through breast milk.
Now, let's discuss diquat, a herbicide that has raised significant concerns. Often referred to as the 'son of paraquat,' diquat is a neurotoxin that can also harm the gut microbiome and cause leaky gut. Unlike glyphosate, diquat is banned in every country except the United States, raising questions about its safety and the agricultural practices that employ it.
Top Foods Contaminated with Herbicides
Here are ten foods that often contain high levels of glyphosate and diquat:
- Oats: Even organic brands show glyphosate contamination.
- Wheat: Bread, pasta, and crackers often carry herbicide residues.
- Corn: Approximately 90% of U.S. corn is treated with these chemicals.
- Soy: Same as corn, 90% of U.S. soy is affected, including in plant-based meats.
- Chickpeas and Lentils: Frequently sprayed to accelerate harvest.
- Breakfast Cereals: Many oat-based cereals and granola bars test positive for glyphosate.
- Apple and Cherry Juice: Fruits may absorb glyphosate from surrounding weeds.
- Dates and Dried Fruit: Around 65% of date crops are treated with glyphosate.
- Wine: Many wines, including organic ones, can contain glyphosate.
- Conventionally Raised Meats: Herbicides accumulate in animal tissues from grain feed.
Practical Steps to Reduce Exposure
While the prevalence of these chemicals can feel overwhelming, there are actionable steps you can take to minimize your exposure:
- Choose organic produce and products whenever possible.
- Shop at farmer's markets and inquire about their farming practices.
- Avoid processed cereals and granola bars, as they are often the worst offenders.
- Thoroughly wash your fruits and vegetables to remove residues.
- Opt for organic or biodynamic wines, ideally from countries with strict standards.
- Consider adding glycine to your diet, which could help mitigate the effects of glyphosate.
The Role of Glycine in Mitigating Glyphosate
Glycine is an amino acid that plays a critical role in DNA structure. Due to its similarity to glyphosate, there is a theory that supplementing with glycine can help ensure that glyphosate does not replace it in your DNA. Additionally, glycine, along with N-acetylcysteine (NAC), can boost glutathione production, a key antioxidant in mitochondria.
Conclusion
While we cannot completely avoid every toxin in our environment, making informed choices can significantly reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals like glyphosate and diquat. By carefully selecting your food and understanding agricultural practices, you can take control of your health and well-being.
Thank you for reading! For more insights on health and wellness, stay tuned for our next article, where we will explore common cleaning products that may be harming your health.
