Doctors urge caution as glyphosate exposure rises 500%

7 in 10 people have glyphosate in their system, according to University of California at San Diego research. Over the 23-year study, the number of people with detectable levels of the chemical rose by 500 percent.

“Studies link glyphosate to endocrine disruption and imbalances in gut bacteria—both of which play a role in GI problems, weight gain and fatigue,” says Fred Pescatore, M.D. And while most studies were conducted in a lab and not on humans, Sara Gottfried, M.D., asserts, “There’s enough data to apply a precautionary principle on the chemical. I advise my patients to avoid it as much as possible.”

Genetically modified (GMO) crops are top sources of food-based glyphosate exposure, Dr. Pescatore says. He points to corn, soy, canola and sugar beets. According to the EPA, glyphosate is also used on wheat crops.

Your doctor can check glyphosate levels with a urine test, or try new athome tests (visit DetoxProject.org). And since glyphosate is hard to avoid entirely, consider the steps below. Says Dr. Pescatore, “My patients have reported increases in energy and improvements in gut issues in one to two weeks.”

To protect yourself, add a daily serving of raw sauerkraut or 1 Tbs. of apple cider vinegar. Both contain

acetobacter, a good bacteria shown to metabolize glyphosate. Dr. Pescatore’s top pick for good bacteria in supplement form: Lactobacillus fermentum

ME-3. “This strain boosts body levels of glutathione, which helps the liver flush toxins.” Try: Reg’Activ Detox & Liver Health (DrOhhiraProbiotics.com).

Choosing organic produce and non-GMO grains can cut pesticide exposure by 90 percent in 7 days.