The following information is from Children’s Health Defense.

A new review of 42 studies published in Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology found that exposure to glyphosate, the main ingredient in Roundup, is strongly linked to fatty liver disease and liver damage in both children and adults. The authors wrote that glyphosate and its metabolite AMPA “greatly increase” the risk of liver damage.

Glyphosate is the world’s most widely used herbicide. Researchers found that early childhood exposure is especially harmful: doubling AMPA levels at age 5 was associated with a 55% higher chance of metabolic syndrome by age 18. Children living within a half-mile of glyphosate-sprayed agricultural fields had higher liver enzyme levels and more signs of metabolic syndrome.

A UC San Diego study in adults found that higher glyphosate in urine correlated with more severe liver scarring and inflammation, independent of weight, diabetes, or other factors. Women ages 40–60 with borderline diabetes appeared especially vulnerable.

Scientists also noted mechanisms that explain the risks: glyphosate disrupts the gut microbiome, interferes with hormones, and increases oxidative stress, all of which can drive liver disease. Beyond liver damage, glyphosate has been linked to hypertension, kidney disease, obesity, and diabetes.

Dr. Paul Mills of UC San Diego, who led one of the adult studies, said:

“We observed higher levels of glyphosate in patients with more advanced stages of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, suggesting a strong association between exposure and progression.”

To reduce exposure, experts recommend the following steps:

• Buy organic foods whenever possible.
• Filter drinking water with a high-quality system, such as reverse osmosis.
• Avoid processed foods that commonly contain soy, corn, and seed oils.
• Choose whole, unprocessed foods over packaged items.
• Eat pasture-raised meats and dairy to avoid glyphosate in animal feed.
• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating.
• Grow some of your own food if possible.
• Support local farmers who avoid glyphosate use.
• Avoid herbicides and lawn chemicals in home and garden care.
• Read labels carefully and limit foods with genetically modified ingredients.

Researchers say glyphosate exposure is widespread, but small changes in diet and lifestyle can significantly lower long-term risks.

For more information, read the full article here.