Snacks for Gestational Diabetes | Your Complete Guide

Helping Pregnant Mothers with Their Meal Plans

Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy, affecting many women. This condition can cause high blood sugar levels, which can be harmful to both the mother and the baby. To manage gestational diabetes, it is important to make dietary changes, including choosing healthy snacks.

What is Gestational Diabetes?

Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that an expecting mother can suffer from during her pregnancy, even though she didn’t have diabetes before falling pregnant. This type of diabetes is different from type 1 or 2 diabetes, as gestational diabetes isn’t ongoing but – usually – passes once the baby is born.

What is the Prevalence of Gestational Diabetes?

Approximately 2%–10% of US pregnancies are affected by gestational diabetes, according to the CDC. This number is also expected to rise as overweight and obesity become ever more prevalent in society (Kampmann, 2015).

Gestational Diabetes Symptoms

Although gestational diabetes may cause symptoms, these symptoms can be very slight. For this reason, it is a good idea to get tested for gestational diabetes when you are between 24 and 28 weeks pregnant – even if you have no symptoms.

10 Snacks for Gestational Diabetes

1. Nuts

Nuts are a great snack option for gestational diabetes because they are high in protein and healthy fats, which can help stabilize blood sugar levels. Examples of nuts that can be eaten as a snack include almonds, walnuts, pistachios, and cashews.

2. Fresh Vegetables

Vegetables are low in carbohydrates and can be paired with a healthy dip like hummus or tzatziki. Examples of vegetables that can be eaten as a snack include carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and bell pepper strips.

3. Fresh Fruit

While fruit contains natural sugars, it can still be enjoyed in moderation. Choose lower glycemic index fruits like berries, apples, and pears. These fruits are also high in fiber, which can help regulate blood sugar levels.

4. Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, making it a great snack option for those with gestational diabetes. It can be eaten on its own or mixed with fruit and nuts.

5. Hard-Boiled Eggs

Hard-boiled eggs are a great source of protein and can be eaten on their own or paired with a piece of fruit or some vegetable sticks.

6. Cheese and Crackers

Choose whole-grain crackers and low-fat cheese for a snack that is high in protein and fiber. This combination can help keep you feeling full for longer periods.

7. Hummus and Vegetables

Hummus is a healthy dip made from chickpeas, which are high in fiber and protein. Paired with fresh vegetables, hummus makes for a delicious and filling snack.

8. Peanut Butter and Apple Slices

Apples are a low-glycemic fruit, meaning they are less likely to cause a spike in blood sugar levels. Pairing apple slices with peanut butter can create a snack that is high in protein, healthy fats, and fiber.

9. Avocado Toast

Avocado toast is a trendy and healthy snack option that is also suitable for those with gestational diabetes. Choose whole-grain bread and top it with sliced avocado for a snack that is high in fiber and healthy fats.

10. Cottage Cheese and Fruit

Cottage cheese is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, making it a great snack option for those with gestational diabetes. Paired with fresh fruit, cottage cheese can make for a delicious and nutritious snack.

Smart Snacking with Gestational Diabetes

Choosing healthy snacks is important for women with gestational diabetes to help manage their blood sugar levels. By incorporating these 10 snack options into their diets, women with gestational diabetes can maintain a healthy and balanced diet during their pregnancy. As always, it is important to work with a registered dietitian or healthcare provider to develop a meal plan that works for your individual needs and blood sugar levels.

Top Snacks for Gestational Diabetes