No one ever thinks they’re going to develop gestational diabetes, but sometimes it’s out of our control. Here’s how the past month has gone after being diagnosed with gestational diabetes + meal and snack ideas.
↑ What I’ve been eating a lot of over the past month. GREEN STUFF.
Well, the post headline pretty much sums it up – I have gestational diabetes. Apparently the third pregnancy was not the charm for this ol’ gal!
Sooo, YEAH. I have several reasons for writing this post. One, it felt like I was hiding something by not telling you. Lying by omission is still lying in my book and, well, Mama don’t get down like that. Second, my post on Living with Celiac Disease has been one of my most popular posts here on IGE because it’s real and, most importantly, helped people, which I hope to accomplish with this post. Not only by sharing some of the meals and foods I’ve been eating over the past month, but simply to give anyone struggling with gestational diabetes a virtual pat on the shoulder and say you’re not alone. We’ll get through this! Third, the word “diabetes” is a loaded word and I hope to spread some knowledge about what gestational diabetes is and who can develop it.
What is Gestational Diabetes?
Gestational diabetes affects only pregnant women – 7-9% of woman are said to develop it during pregnancy – and it goes away after delivery of the baby. Hormones from the placenta interfere with the mother’s ability to use insulin, which your body needs to turn glucose (sugar) into energy. Glucose builds up causing high blood sugar, which can have negative effects on both mom and baby. Baby can be born overly large and with low blood sugar, have breathing problems, and face potential issues with obesity and Type 2 diabetes down the road. Mom can develop preeclampsia and has a strong risk of developing Type 2 diabetes in the future.
If you’ve ever been pregnant, you most likely dreaded the gestational diabetes screening test as much as I did. Generally occurring around the 24-26 week mark of pregnancy, in 5 minutes or less you must chug a drink that’s basically corn syrup, artificial flavor, and food dye (read: highly disgusting and extremely unpleasant) then your blood sugar is tested an hour later to see if your body is using the sugar properly. If it’s not then at a later date you drink an even more concentrated sugary beverage and your blood sugar is re-tested at the one, two, and three hour mark after drinking. If you fail any of those tests then you’ve earned yourself a pregnancy complication: gestational diabetes.
Risk factors for gestational diabetes include being older then 25, having a family or personal history of Type 2 or pre-diabetes, a BMI of 30 or higher, or if you are black, Hispanic, American Indian, or Asian (source). As I read in a book on the subject, unless you’re 25 or younger, white, and have no family or personal history of diabetes – there’s a chance you could develop gestational diabetes. I think there’s a stigma surrounding gestational diabetes and I’m here to tell you that it can happen to anyone. The dietitian I’ve met with through this process told me she’s seen marathoners in her office with gestational diabetes!
The risk factor I met was age. As I always tell the whipper snappers who will listen to this crotchety old bag – don’t grow up! Truthfully, the age thing was a tough pill to swallow and it hasn’t been as simple as telling myself, the only reason you got this is because you’re an old(er) mom.
Various thoughts ran through my mind when I got the call – why did I drink so many Chick-fil-A lemonades (to be fair, I didn’t drink that many!)? Why haven’t I been more active? HOW COULD I LET THIS HAPPEN?!
If getting Celiac Disease has taught me anything though, it’s that $@!& happens. Some things in life can’t be prevented, helped, or predicted. This didn’t happen because of the foods I was or wasn’t eating, hormones are to blame. Thankfully in many cases, and so far in my case, gestational diabetes can be managed through diet, which is something I have a ton of experience with.
The “prescription” for gestational diabetes is not only to focus on eating healthy fats, proteins, and vegetables (so many vegetables,) but more importantly watch your total carb intake and spread them out throughout the day. The way I made sense of this for myself is that I need a slow and steady burn of the right amount and type of carbohydrate all day long. I check my blood sugar 4 times a day (finger prick) and log everything I eat in a spreadsheet for my doctor to keep tabs on. Fun!
What’s been hard:
- Eating ZERO added/processed sugar and limited fruit and berries. I have a raging sweet tooth when I’m pregnant so going cold turkey has been slightly torturous. Fruit and berries are also my summertime jam and I’ve missed them a lot.
- No more pretzels, tortilla chips, crackers – aka empty carbs I used to eat when I needed a little something to crunch on during the day. Not so mad about this as I needed a reason to ditch the junk.
- Mega meal planning. Normally I plan 3-4 dinners a week. Now I need to plan a breakfast, lunch, dinner and 2 snacks every single day x 7 days a week. There is no winging it when you’re eating to manage gestational diabetes.
- Eating for fuel vs fun.
- Measuring and tracking everything I eat. It’s as annoying as time tracking at work.
- No food-related spontaneity. Celiac Disease pretty much killed this for me already (no “ooo there’s a new restaurant in town – we should go!“) but it’s even harder now that I have to make sure a restaurant has low-carb options in addition to gluten-free ones, and the timing has to be right for a meal or snack. Heck, I can’t even eat an apple past 6pm without it effecting the next day’s blood sugar.
- Getting bored of eating a lot of the same foods over and over each day.
- Knowing my chances of developing Type 2 diabetes down the road is high.
- Playing poor me. I know – it’s childish – but when all I want is to sit down and watch trashy television at night with a glass of wine, pizza and giant brownie (dreaming big here,) the fact that I have gestational diabetes and Celiac Disease can be a bummer.
What’s been good:
- Knowing that I’m doing all I can to make sure we have a healthy baby and pregnancy.
- I get to eat A LOT. 3 meals + 2 snacks a day. Not mad about that!
- Learning about portion control. Let’s just say the amount of sweet potato fries that equals one carb choice is much smaller then I thought.
- Slower weight gain. I’ve never been one to care much about weight gain during pregnancy as long as I was in the healthy range and baby was growing at a healthy rate, but this has been a welcomed side effect.
- I’ve learned how my body processes carbs – at least during this pregnancy. Through trial, error, and testing, I’ve found my blood sugar hates white sugar, fruit in the morning and at night, super starchy vegetables, and even too many whole grain carbs. Totally changed my outlook on the (fun) foods I’ll be fueling my body with post-baby.
- I’ve never eaten healthier. My meals and snacks are filled with tons of vegetables, lean protein, nuts, and dairy – which thankfully my body handles well.
- I feel great! I was shocked to find out I had gestational diabetes in the first place because I’d felt the best this pregnancy out of all three prior to being diagnosed. Since changing my diet though, I’ve had more energy and feel better overall.
- This is temporary. Gestational diabetes ends when the gestation period ends. Yes, Type 2 diabetes is a very real risk for the future, but gestational diabetes specifically will end in a few weeks.
What I’ve Been Eating
It was a bummer to find out I had to start logging all my meals and snacks to share with my doctors and dietitian at every appointment, but it’s worked out well because now I can share some ideas with you!
NOTE: I am NOT a doctor nor dietitian so please discuss your meal plan with your care team, as I have, to identify what will work for you and your gestational diabetes care plan!
Breakfast:
- 1-2 slices peanut butter toast (I’ve been eating Canyon Bakehouse Gluten-Free 7-Grain Bread vs their Mountain White)
- 1 slice buttered toast + 2 scrambled eggs + 2 slices bacon (I like Applegate Naturals No Sugar Bacon)
- Grain-free granola + almond milk, 1 slice peanut butter toast
- Handful raw almonds or pecans, small square Maple Cinnamon Breakfast Bars
- Greek yogurt + sliced almonds or grain-free granola
- 2 scrambled eggs with shredded cheese, 1 slice toast
- 2 fried eggs, 2 slices bacon or sausage, big handful sauteed spinach
- 1 slice avocado toast + goat cheese, fried egg
- Small bowl oatmeal – 1/4 cup gluten-free oats cooked with 1/4 banana in 1/4 cup each almond milk and water. Add chia seeds, toasted unsweetened coconut chips, chopped nuts, tiiiiny drizzle maple syrup, cinnamon, and vanilla.
Lunch:
- Big salads with a mix of protein (turkey, chicken, nuts, seeds, cheese, hard-boiled egg, smoked salmon,) vegetables, and carbs like blueberries, diced apples, or dried cranberries + dressing
- Peanut butter sandwich, cheese stick, baby carrots
- Cheese quesadilla (2 small corn tortillas) with guacamole + salsa, 1/2 cup fruit
- Cheese stick, a few whole grain crackers, baby carrots, 1/2 an apple
- Burger (no bun) + pickles and ketchup. Salad with lots of vegetables + sliced almonds
- Meatballs + few Tablespoons marinara sauce + shredded cheese, baby carrots, 1/2 cup fruit
- Tuna salad + a few whole grain crackers and vegetable dippers, 1/2 cup berries
- 2 hard boiled eggs, salami, cheese, a few whole grain crackers, 1/2 cup fruit
- 2 hot dogs (local brand) sliced down the center and stuffed with cheddar cheese + ketchup, baby carrots
- Chicken salad + vegetable dippers and/or a few whole grain crackers
- Egg Salad Jars
Dinner:
- Zucchini Noodle Caprese Lasagna
- Crunchy Pesto Potato Chip Salmon
- Burgers (no bun), large vegetable-based salad, 1/2 cup berries
- Vegetable Stir Fry: 1/4 cup uncooked brown rice (max) cooked then stir fried with an egg + any/all vegetables and drizzled with gluten-free Tamari
- Crock Pot White Chicken Chili + shredded cheese
- 1/2 baked spaghetti squash + 3/4 cup marinara/meat sauce + parmesan or mozzarella cheese
- Skinny Shrimp (or Scallop) Piccata with Zoodles
- Crustless quiche, 1 cup fruit
- Buffalo Chicken Salad, 1/2 cup sweet potato fries
- Pan-Roasted Chicken Thighs, cauliflower rice, 1/2 cup sweet potato fries
- Cauliflower Fried Rice
- BBQ, Bacon, Avocado and Cheddar Chicken, roasted vegetables
- Grilled Pork Tenderloin, grilled vegetables
- Roasted Pork Tenderloin, roasted vegetables
- Perfect Roast Chicken, roasted vegetables or side salad
- Homemade Egg Drop Soup
- Grilled or seared steak, roasted or sauteed green beans, sauteed garlic butter mushrooms
Snacks:
- Beef jerky (Nick Sticks or Duke’s – buy at Costco)
- Enjoy Life Chewy Bars (in a pinch)
- Plantain chips (OBSESSED with these BBQ ones)
- Cottage cheese + 1/2 cup fruit
- Olives + cheese cubes + a pickle
- Raw nuts + 2 Tablespoons dried fruit
- Greek yogurt + grain-free granola or nuts
- Popcorn + raw nuts or seeds
- Salami + cheese stick + plantain chips
- Raw vegetables + guacamole
- 1/2 apple + cheese cubes + prosciutto
- 1/2 apple + 2 Tablespoons peanut butter
- Homemade Egg Drop Soup
- Raw vegetables
- Raw vegetables
- Raw vegetables
#notatypo. ;) Click here for all my low-carb recipes >
Moving forward
“You have gestational diabetes” are four words that no mother on earth wants to hear, and this has made a time when I already feel out of control of my body (ie pregnancy) much more difficult. To be crystal clear, I cannot wait for this to go away. That said, I am grateful for this experience. As of 2017, it is said that 29 million Americans have Type 2 diabetes and 8 million of them are undiagnosed. I can say with 100% certainty that had I not been diagnosed with gestational diabetes, the thought of getting Type 2 diabetes would have never crossed my mind. I eat a balanced diet – no fast food and limited junk food – exercise moderately, and have no family history of diabetes, so it’s never been on my radar until now.
This experience has been a HUGE eye opener in terms of how I can make small, healthy improvements to my lifestyle moving forward though. Instead of white bread, I’ll choose whole grain. Instead of white rice, I’ll choose brown. Instead of brownies I’ll make a smoothie (ok maybe not every time!) Sit less. Move more.
I can’t pretend I don’t know I’m now at risk for developing Type 2 diabetes down the road but I’m super grateful to know how I can reduce my risk. Also grateful that I have just 5 more weeks of this “diet” left before meeting the sweet little lady who is worth every bite of carrot over cake!
Have you ever been diagnosed with gestational diabetes? What was your experience like?
Oh gosh! Hang in there! I failed the 1st test with my 2nd child but then passed the longer test. My daughter is 11 so maybe this isn’t even done anymore. I was sweating it big time. My good friend had GD with all 3 of her kids. Her youngest is 12 & knock on wood, she does not have diabetes yet. Thanks for the total honesty. I am trying hard to eat better. This is a good reminder for me too. Best wishes for a smooth end to the pregnancy!!!!
Thank you so much, HJ! GD with three pregnancies – I can’t even imagine. A good reminder that life could always be tougher then it feels in the moment!
I was lucky enough to avoid gestational diabetes (I thought for sure I’d get it due to age and family history) but now I’ve had to be dairy and soy free while breastfeeding and it is so dang hard! I basically eat the same few things on rotation as I don’t have the brain power to come up with more things to eat. Thank goodness it is grilling season. Hang in there as this is at least temporary!
Food restrictions on any level are so difficult to handle not only physically but mentally. Hang in there, Mama!!
Thank you for such a real and honest post! I work in a health field and much of my work is funded by the CDC. CDC supports a wonderful program throughout the country called, Diabetes Prevention Program. Having a history of gestational diabetes makes it more likely you qualify for the program. A few years from now when things settle down for you, I would look into it if you ever need some extra motivation or “me” time. Most YMCAs offer the program as do more and more hospitals.
Thank you so much for the information, Haley, I really appreciate it!
Thank you for sharing this! I think it’s so important for people to know that it really can happen to anyone!
I agree! I’ve had teeny tiny little friends get GD, as well as friends who struggled with weight get diagnosed – and clearly weight isn’t the only risk factor. It truly can happen to anyone!
I’m preparing to retake the 3-hour test because the lab botched my first 3-hour results. It was either retake it or be labeled GD by default. I’m preparing to change my diet in case I don’t pass, and it was a relief to see your blog post about your experience! I have cooked your recipes for years and trust you completely so I was so happy to find a familiar face to help me through this! I work at a high risk perinatal center in DSM so I definitely see the effects of GD and what noncompliance can do. I’m a very healthy person and eat very well as it is, but losing the ability to eat freely when I choose is going to be the hardest for me. I’m praying I pass, but if I don’t, I’m glad I have your recipes to get me through these last 10 weeks! Thank you so much! ♡
So sorry. It stinks but is totally manageable as you know. I had it twice (age and family history) and 14 years later I’m still vigilant with what I eat. It’s not to say I don’t have periods that all I want is Reese PB cups and all the chips I can eat but I always return to a healthy balance. Your baby girl will be here soon and this will all behind you. In the meantime use your blog to educate those who come after you. Thanks for sharing.
Totally relate. I think I would literally go insane without a brownie or something special every week – this has been very difficult mentally more so then physically – but good to know that I know how to come back to a healthy balance.
Well, that’s not fun. My ten-year-old has Type 1 Diabetes. She was diagnosed five years ago, so we’ve been at this for a while. A year after that she was diagnosed with Celiac Disease. Double whammy! These two diseases and a few others are commonly linked because they are linked to the same gene mutation. So that could be a second link you have besides being not-as-young (but still way younger than I am) on that list. I am glad that you are willing to be so open and help break the stigma.
I wondered if CD was another risk factor for me, though my doctors didn’t seem to think so (at least not for GD or Type-2). I know Type-1 and CD are linked. I’m so sorry to hear about your daughter and hope there is a cure found for her sooner then later!! <3
Kristin, this is such a great post – I’m so sorry that you have GD, as it is definitely not a fun diagnosis. When I was first diagnosed, I struggled to find real, helpful, non-scary information about how to proceed – this post is going to help so many mamas in the future! It felt like there was such a stigma with GD (especially since I wasn’t able to control it just with diet, but needed to add insulin 2x daily); thank you so much for talking about it!
Completely my pleasure – I was SO scared after my diagnosis too. It was reassuring that I’d had a couple friends go through it in the past and knew it wasn’t quite the end of the world, though it was still a shock.
Thank you for writing this!! I think there’s a stigma attached to GD, like only people who gain large amounts of weight or “don’t take care of” themselves get it. I wondered a little when you posted your last day in the life as I was struck by how balanced your eating was throughout the day. I’m nervous about my upcoming glucose screening as my age puts me at risk too. 😑 it was reassuring to read your post and remember, even if I have it, I will get through! Love how you’ve used your blog to help so many people – I’ve been reading since the beginning (LOVED the daily mom walks!) and it’s been so fun to see your life progress as we’re about the same age.
That was actually just before my diagnosis (like literally a couple days before) – no ice cream sandwiches with GD, unfortunately! :/ Best of luck with your screening, and congrats on your pregnancy! Either way it will be OK and if you DO get a GD diagnosis, you’ll come out better for it on the other side!
Thank you for sharing this!! My 2 year old was recently diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes and as Jennifer above said – Celiac Disease is more likely to happen once you have T1D. With my 2 year old being a 2 year old, it seems like all he eats is carbs. Your list has given me some new ideas on meals I could get him to try (ya know, after he rejects it the first 10x). Thank you for sharing your meals!
I’m so sorry to hear that news, CJ. :/ I totally know the 2 year old meal time struggle – hopefully he will be open to a few of these ideas!
Thanks for writing this post! I’m currently pregnant with my 2nd. I had GD with my first so I was tested at 16 weeks and yup have it again. I check off all the boxes, age, family history, miscarriage, previous GD diagnosis. This time around has been harder and diet isn’t enough as my fasting level isn’t staying down so insulin here I come. It is easy for me to feel sorry for myself but I’m trying to stay positive. I do love that it has slowed down my weight gain so less to lose post pregnancy! 15 weeks to go! I do miss donuts terribly, not gonna lie :)
I totally relate – ALL I want in life is a giant, warm brownie with hot fudge sauce. I hope the next few months fly by for you!
Hi Kristen – It’s a bummer to hear that you have gestational diabetes. With both of my pregnancies I had to do the short and the long test, because my short one always came back with an odd number. While I didn’t have gestational diabetes I understand the place in which you are coming from. My husband was diagnosed as a celiac and I can understand how difficult the menu selection was before and is now. Fortunately, you have a good plan to work from and I wish you all the best health! Bravo for sharing the knowledge too!
Thank you, Joann! I did wonder after going through my “training” how on earth women who don’t have a lot of experience with food/food labels would ever get through this because it’s so strict!
Kristin, I really really feel for you!! And am praying for yours and your baby’s continued health!! This is an inspiring and helpful list for a newly-pregnant gal like myself! How awesome that you’re impacting people’s decisions and habits long before they NEED/are forced to make a switch. Thank you and God bless!!!
Thank you so much, Bridget! Congratulations on your sweet baby – that is so exciting!
Hi Kristin – hang in there – I had it with #2 out of 4. My youngest is 13 and I’m still in the clear of type 2 but it very likely will show up eventually as it is in the genetics. We also have food sensitivities/ allergies – GF and DF does take a ton of planning ahead, so thank you for all your great recipes, I turn to your blog often for help!!
I’m so glad to hear the recipes are of value to you and your family, Carol!
Umm totally get you on the age thing. We’ve been thinking about a third but then I’m faced with a “geriatric pregnancy” — umm, I’m in my mid-30’s?!? This is so incredible to share and I’ll be sending good vibes your way. I didn’t have gestational diabetes with my two, but I did have to do the double screen with both. Pregnancy is already so hard because every day is a weird day (or at least my symptoms were that way!) so that’s hard to learn an complete new lifestyle when you have two little ones too. Good for you for embracing it and being honest — I know this article is going to give someone some amazing ideas.
What a word. ;) I feel 16 yet am considered geriatric when it comes to being a Mom. Lovely!
I just failed my one hour test yesterday and have my 3 hour scheduled. This is baby #5 and I failed the one hour with #4 (but passed the 3), interestingly I was under 25 with my first 3…
If I do get diagnosed, I’ll definitely be back to check out the meal ideas closer. I found I feel better limiting my gluten consumption so the gluten free ideas will be great! Thank you for writing about this. I feel like there is a storage of good, non-scary information out there. After failing the 1 hour with my last pregnancy, I made the mistake of doing some research and just freaked myself out.
Blessings on the last weeks of your pregnancy!
Google can be a scary place for sure!! Sending good vibes and positive thoughts your way. Congrats on baby number FIVE, too! Woo!
Hate hearing this news, hang in there and hope in time it’ll go away! Thoughts and prayers are with you through this new journey.
I’m so glad that a friend of mine sent me a link to your website with myself being borderline Celiac. Your recipes have given me a 2nd chance at eating things that I love just in a different way.
Oh I’m so glad to hear that, Stacie! Let me know if you ever have a recipe request! :)
Well dang. CD and GD for an amazing Foodie blog writer??? That’s a lot of irony! I really hate it for you. That said – you got thrown the CD curveball very shortly after I did and you managed to become an even more mazing and creative chef with delicious recipes that I am grateful for! You have also introduced me to products I would not have found on my own. I am now insulin resistant and have been looking for ways to cut back on sugar. I know you will create more recipes with tons of flavor and not a lot of carbs and sugar and I look forward to even greater things from you! Hang in there. Its not easy, but its yet another challenge that will keep your work in the kitchen fresh and exciting. We are sometime forced to become uber healthy! Our bodies just demand it. :)
Such a nice comment all around, Paige – thank you for your encouragement! And yes, totally agree – sometimes our bodies demand action we don’t necessarily want to take, but I know it’s for the best. :)
I had GD with my little girl, which was controlled with diet. I found it super interesting, as I’d always suspected I had weird blood sugar, and sure enough!
I still test periodically when I’m feeling “off”.
2 things to have on your radar as a GD momma…
1. When Baby Girl is born, they will test and retest her blood sugar. Our Ivy’s was low ~ which I’ve been told is not unusual for a newborn before they are 8 hours old, as it takes that long for their bs to self-regulate after birth ~ but b/c of this, they gave her a big syringe of formula. This was sooo hard for me… not b/c I believe formula is evil, but b/c it stretched her little tummy, and made it so difficult to keep her full for a long time afterward. I wish I’d known this was a possibility beforehand, so it wouldn’t have been sprung on me 6 hours postpartum (and post-manual-placenta-extraction-with-no-epidural). So just be aware. 💕
2. On a happier note, have you tried Plain Chicken’s “Where Is The Crust?” pizza? I would think it would work for Celiacs (cream cheese, egg, Parmesan, &a garlic powder), and it was GREAT for GD. 🙂
Good to know about the syringe of formula – I knew that her blood sugar could be low but haven’t yet asked what they do about that. Thank you – I will definitely discuss with my dr to make sure we’re on the same page (since I’m a scheduled C-section I get to have my beloved doc do it – praise the lord!) I will also check out Plain Chicken’s pizza crust – sounds DIVINE!!
Having your doctor makes all the difference, doesn’t it?! I was a high-risk pregnancy with Ivy (before GD…and it turned out I had a Placenta Increta, so we’re just all super grateful to be alive!), but the silver lining was that I knew my OB would show up for her birth, no matter what.
Thanks for sharing your journey…and all the yummy recipes that result from its twists and turns. You are by far one of my favorite food bloggers out there (and I’m not even GF! 😉).
Thank you!! I was diagnosed with GD this pregnancy (due next week, eek), and I remember feeling completely blindsided when first diagnosed. Thank god for Cobb salads (my jam this pregnancy) and ALL the nut butters. I’ve found my fat intake def has needed to increase to fill caloric void from processed carbs, which made me realize how many carbs I was consuming!! I’m on insulin as well, which was so terrifying, but gets easier as time goes on.
Ahh – 1 week out – so exciting! I relate to your story. I wasn’t eating a TON of carbs prior to diagnosis, but they weren’t the best (crackers, brownies, lemonade,) and totally at the wrong time of day (usually at night.) Like I said, this really has been a blessing in disguise. Sending happy thoughts to you for a healthy, happy delivery!
Long time reader- first time commenter here. I’m a diabetic educator who had gestation diabetes with my first last year. I love that you are posting about this and sharing your experience! The things I like people to know is carbs are not villians- you need them for good baby development- but you need the right kinds of carbs and the right amounts at the right times. There is a learning curve to it, but managing GD is doable- and a lot of times it can be done without meds. Also as another poster mention- ask your doctor about what happens after delivery and how they monitor baby differently.
There is a link to increased type 2 diabetes down the road, but there are lots of things you can do to decrease your risk. For example: if not at a healthy weight (oops me neither), losing 5-7% of your body weight, decreases the risk. It’s not an automatic future diagnosis. Be aware of the risk and don’t assume it’s a given- you can do a lot to decrease the risk!
Good luck! Sounds like you are doing well at managing. And if you or anyone else has to be put on meds to manage- it’s not always because of something you did wrong, your body just needs a little help to use that insulin.
The biggest takeaway I’ll have from this experience is choosing the right carbs and eating them in the right amount at the right time. It’s so interesting to track my blood sugar and see how a combination of these factors leads to a normal (or not!) reading! Thanks for your input!
Such a good post – thanks for sharing!! I started following you before your celiac diagnosis and used your recipes after when we were trying to rule out gluten sensitivity with my type 1 daughter. I do want you to be aware that as you have 1 autoimmune disease (celiac) you are at risk for others (type 1) – may want to research and be aware of/discuss with you doctor. I have researched a lot with my daughter diagnosis – she is at risk for other autoimmune disorders and has thyroid, celiac labs yearly. I pray all goes well with your pregnancy and the gestational Diabetes goes away, but also want you to be informed.
This is true! I have Hashimotos (autoimmune condition that can cause hypothyroidism) and know that I’m at much greater risk for other autoimmune conditions b/c of it. I’ve been able to reverse it (and am almost at full remission status–will hopefully be there later this year!) just by changing my diet. The Autoimmune Protocol Diet (AIP for short) has been one of the most powerful tools in reversing my autoimmune condition and it’s beneficial for all types of autoimmune conditions (thousands of ppl have done the same thing and recently there was a clinical trial proving the efficacy of it–I believe they tested it with those that have IBD). Just something to note for the future. AIP is a bit restrictive but also not meant to last forever and it’s introduced me to waaaaaay more veggies than I ate before. Just wanted to share this info in case it’s helpful for you or others. :)
Definitely on my radar!
I totally agree with you, but it was out was reversed for me. My gestational diabetes diagnosis (x2) made my celiac disease diagnosis easier to handle because I knew I could control how I felt just by making smart food choices.
For sure – having food knowledge because of either diagnosis definitely makes the other one easier to take on!
I pinned this for the food ideas when I finally get pregnant. I’ve been dealing with infertility for almost 2 years and have been so caught up in the stress of trying to get pregnant that I haven’t even thought about things I’ll need to know when I am, but I’m 38 so even though I don’t have any of the other risk factors I know I’ll need to be careful about my diet. Thanks for sharing and for the great information!
I’m so sorry to hear that you’ve been dealing with infertility for so long, and that stress might be playing a factor in that. I had trouble getting pregnant with our second (I think stress played a big part) and found acupuncture helped tremendously – I’m convinced that’s how I got pregnant! Either way Lindsay, hang in there!
I was GD with both kids. I just rolled with it, ate healthy, pricked my finger, tracked my food and did what I had to do to have a healthy baby. It’s only for a short time!
Exactly! Not the greatest experience in the world but it is what it is!
So glad you talked about GD being hormonally driven by the placenta. It doesn’t matter how your diet is before. I had it with both pregnancies and at age 24 and a healthy weight. Diet controlled it and I was induced at 40 weeks for both. GD has been a lifesaver for me because I was overdoing the carbs. Now I eat keto so really low carb and feel amazing!
I think that’s so important for people to understand – YOU CANNOT CONTROL YOUR HORMONES. I mean, you can to some extent in normal, everyday life, but the hormones your placenta is putting out are not in our control.
Thank you so much for this post! I am pregnant with baby girl #2 and did the glucose tolerance test early—around 12 weeks bc my BMI is right around where the risk goes up slightly, and I literally lost my mind about it. I was so anxious I was throwing up bc associating it with an already sensitive subject (weight) coupled with the idea I could have to track my diet while working full time and taking care of a toddler just put me over the edge. I failed the 1 hr, then passed the 3 hour. I’m 20 weeks now and have to be retested around 28 weeks and I’m so dreading it, but your post definitely brought me some light and perspective on the issue.
I’m so sorry hear to hear this, Lindsey. I think so much of this is harder mentally then anything else. Sending positive thoughts your way and no matter how your test goes at 28 weeks, everything will be ok!
Thanks for this post! I don’t have just stational diabetes but my 18 month old son just got diagnosed with type 1 3 weeks ago. I totally understand having to track everything plus that so this post was very helpful for just more ideas on what to eat and what to feed him. I also have been perusing your site for more low-carb ideas since he has been diagnosed so thank you.
I’m sorry to hear about your son, Jill. :( Let me know if there’s any meal ideas or recipes I could share that would make your lives easier!
I had it with both my pregnancies, and I was Uber healthy and active as well. So annoying to be restricted from hormonal eating!
FYI: your taco soup was magical when I had GD. I could eat a giant bowl with tons of tortilla chips, and would have great numbers.
Ooo, good to know – I will definitely make that! I’ve been making my Crock Pot Chicken Chili a bunch too, which my sugars respond really well to!
Thank you for being willing to share your experience with us! I’m 34 and at week 20 with my first pregnancy. I have had surprisingly little anxiety about pregnancy EXCEPT for my fear of GD. Hearing about how someone else is managing it helps alleviate this (although I’ve been a fiend for fruit the past few months, and I would be super sad to have to cut back).
However it goes, everything will be ok, and enjoy your fruit! The placenta hormones vs what you’re eating dictate your diagnosis!
Thank you so much for posting this! Crazy how familiar your story mirrors my own (except that I don’t have to deal with gluten free on top of all that – I can’t imagine adding another factor into the mix!). I am 33 weeks and was diagnosed with gestational diabetes at 28 weeks. Didn’t have it with my first pregnancy, and like you the only risk factor I had was being over 25 (I’m 32). It was SUCH a shock as I am a healthy weight, eat healthy (with occasional treats), and exercise. Such an emotional diagnosis at first, and I can relate so much to those feelings of guilt that I did something wrong (too much frozen yogurt, not enough exercise), although after meeting with the diabetes educator I did feel reassured that this was something out of my control and felt less guilt about it. It has been such an added stress though just in terms of meal planning and tracking. Luckily I have been able to control my results with diet alone, and like you I have found myself just eating the same things over and over because I know they work and it’s easier than coming up with new snacks/meals. Luckily it’s a short period of time, otherwise I would be going crazy! I do scrambled eggs with veggies and avocado toast every morning, plain greek yogurt with blueberries and almonds for a morning snack, and then lunches and dinners vary. I have found popcorn to be a good snack option as well, and feel like I have never eaten so many nuts, avocado, cheese and veggies in my life! :) Just wanted to share because I agree that there is not a lot of great info out there, and I found myself googling “gestational diabetes snack options” searching for ideas…so good for you for putting this out there! I have been reading your blog for years and love your recipes. xoxoxo
YES – so much cheese, nuts, avocado, and vegetables!! Luckily these are all foods I like – I can’t imagine having to do this with an aversion to any of them. Best of luck with the remainder of your pregnancy (sounds like we are maybe just a week or two apart!?) and congrats on sweet babe!
I wish I would’ve found this post sooner. I was diagnosed at 28 weeks with no risk factors. I exercise regularly and eat very healthy so it was a huge shock. Now at 33 weeks, the shock has worn off and I’ve got the whole process down. I’ve been doing so well with it, that I’m down to checking my blood sugars twice a day instead of four. It helps but I cannot wait to be done with it. Thank you for the encouraging post and meal ideas!
That is awesome!!! I was sooo overwhelmed at first too – the learning curve is steep – but am thankful that everything shook out quickly. Sounds like our due dates are close – best of luck to you throughout the rest of your pregnancy!
I am SO happy you and baby are healthy and doing well. This article will help a ton of mommies out there! I am on week 20 of pregnancy, so I have not had the glucose test yet but I am so thankful you shared this!!
Thanks Kelli!! Congrats on your pregnancy – so excited for you!
I also had GD during my pregnancy. For me it was due to being on steroids to manage my rheumatoid arthritis (steroids raise your blood sugar). It was a total pain to manage but it did limit my weight gain. It opened my eyes to how many carbs are in various foods. My favorite snack was the new Kind protein bars. Most protein bars are so gross but the Kind brand was great. I also loved fairlife chocolate milk. That was my sweet treat. It is filtered multiple times so is high in protein. What frustrated me was how the same meal would result in different levels of blood sugar. I would make something and my blood sugar would be fine. The next day I would eat it again and would get a high number.
YES – that is so, so frustrating. Feeling so out of control of my body is a Type A person’s worst nightmare. I will definitely check out those Kind protein bars (another friend with GF recommended them to me too) thank you for your note!
i had gestational diabetes with my pregnancy as well, and i am on the low end of normal weight for my height, ran a marathon when i was 13 weeks pregnant, white, and was 28 years old. only risk factor was a family history of diabetes. i played the poor me card SO HARD and it totally sucks given how limiting pregnancy already is- never mind with you having celiac too. good luck though and know that the first post-birth meal is SO GOOD (I had mashed potatoes and a grilled cheese just for the hell of carb so hard)
omg a grilled cheese – drooling!!! Thanks for sharing your story, Kae – just another example of how this thing can affect any woman!
I have PCOS which was my one and only risk factor, something I didn’t know was a risk factor until I found out I had gestational diabetes 9 years ago with my first, and was completely blindsided, stressed, scared, etc. about at the time. Felt like I was being smart and careful and doing all the right things and sometimes, it just doesn’t matter. But I got through it with diet and exercise and felt ALL the things you are feeling. With my 2nd I did the same basic RIGID routine out of an abundance of caution and just squeaked by on my 3 hours test without the official diagnosis (but let’s be real, that’s not flying colors and that was WITH me doing the diet/exercise already). I’ve recently found myself very surprisingly expecting again and this is what I dread the absolute most, and it’s hard for people who have not experienced this to understand. You are already giving up a lot of little luxuries during pregnancy and being able to reasonably reward yourself with food sometimes feels like a lot in those months. I’m much more actively exercising now and trying to eat healthy, but cut myself a little slack now while I still can, but I really appreciate the timing of your post. I don’t want to leave anything to chance if I can give myself a good headstart, so I’m trying to implement all these habits as I get further along. The boredom with foods is a huge frustration for me. I tend to want to stick with what I know works for my body and not stray, but oh my the 50th time you eat the same snack, you definitely want to lose it a bit. But I agree with you, it’s a hugely healthy way of eating and you have the right attitude. When it’s over, it’s a big relief and honestly helps ease the transition to new baby crazy, because you are so happy to be done with that part! But it taught me a lot that I still try to use in my daily eating habits. You will totally get through this just fine and tell anyone that comes to visit you in the hospital, they better come with food in hand!
Hi Kristen! Long-time reader who also had GD while pregnant with my now 9 month old daughter. I think this is such a great post. A couple of things in case you found them helpful: 1) My diabetes educator was emphatic in telling her students that we did not have to be perfect, we just had to make it through the next several weeks. I decided that since I had to give up virtually all of my food vices (and was saving money at the grocery store as a result) that I could justify paying like $19 a pop for Cowgirl Creamery’s Mt Tam Brie at Whole Foods. It is the best cheese in the world, and it made me so so happy to have as a snack. I know some people stay away from soft cheeses entirely during pregnancy, but it is pasteurized. :) Find your Mt Tam. Maybe it’s the fancy jerky, maybe it’s mini sugar free crustless cheesecakes (these magically appeared in the prepared food section of my Whole Foods with only 13g carbs per serving, and then seemingly disappeared as soon as I gave birth, as if put there by some angel in my time of need). 2) Your baby will be fine as long as you are taking care of yourself, which clearly you are. This was the part that scared me the most. You probably already know this, but sometimes it is just helpful to hear the words. My daughter had low blood sugar when she was born, so the nurses gave her a small amount of formula in the recovery room. That was it. Easy and relatively painless, other than those foot pricks for the blood test for her. Wishing you all the best, I have absolutely loved following your family and your food journey over the years.
Thanks for being transparent about this. While I have no plans for children, I have family history of several diseases (cancer, diabetes, heart disease) on BOTH sides so it’s always something I’ve worried about. I can always do better. Need to move more and eat a little better. I liked your post about 80/20%. If I could curb my gelato habit I’d probably be better off ;)
*ETA I’ve been following since the beginning when you used to post ALL your meals every day ;) and refer people here regularly whether they just want tasty recipes or need something GF. We’ve tried several and love them all. Keep them coming :) We could probably all use more veggies. Good luck with the rest of your pregnancy, and can’t wait to see posts of the baby girl!
Sorry to hear of this new development in your health, but I think you may have helped others in sharing your meal-plans and thoughts about this set back in your pregnancy. I have always enjoyed your recipes and the sharing of what is going on in your life. Take care
Bummer, mama! I had a GD diagnosis in just one of my 3 pregnancies (the middle one). It totally rocked me, because I was in good shape and only 27 and had passed the 1 hour test easily during my first pregnancy. Going into my third, I was 10lbs heavier and 4 years older, and I passed easily. Pregnant bodies are wonderful and strange and unpredictable. Thanks for shedding some light on a medical issue that can be very sensitive and upsetting in the moment!
Such a bummer! I had it twice, so I feel you. The mental aspect was really rough for me – I was an active Crossfitter right up to delivery! Glad you have so many good recipes to help keep things interesting menu-wise. The end is in sight and not only will you have a sweet baby girl to snuggle, you can spend some time dreaming of your first carb-ful meal!! 💕
I’m not pregnant and have never had gestational diabetes, but I am gf and don’t want to eat the gf processed foods and my hubby is trying to reduce his blood sugar by watching his carbs. So we eat A LOT of vegetables. Thank goodness we love veggies and salads, we limit meats. We even have veggies with breakfast, some sliced tomato or roasted zucchini. We have even had spinach salad with an fried egg on top for breakfast.
Another thank you from a long time reader! I had GD in both of my pregnancies (over 25, family history of Type 2, Hashimotos which is also linked to insulin resistance).
One GD-friendly sweet treat idea for you – Yasso frozen Greek yogurt bars! They are delicious for a summer snack and worked well for my numbers.
Best of luck to you! ❤️
I too had gestational diabetes with my third pregnancy. It was quite frustrating, but I was able to manage well and have been able to continue healthier practices post pregnancy, keeping my weight down. One thing I used to curb my sweet craving was sugar free pudding. It really helped when I was struggling. I could also sneak in some graham crackers with them which made me feel like I was cheating when I really was not! Exercise also helped fairly dramatically with my sugar control. Wishing you well as you continue through your pregnancy!
I had GDM with both pregnancies and what you wrote describes the experience — the emotions, the food, the EVERYTHING — so very perfectly. I wrote about it on my blog four years ago after my oldest was born. It truly was a blessing for me, like you said. Great education, great awareness of risks, and a perfect way to make the pregnancy a healthier one. At the end of my second pregnancy my husband and I went on a babymoon to Minneapolis and ate at a fantastic Thai restaurant. Tons of meat and veggies later, I checked my sugar and it was skyrocketing! Off to the hotel weight room I went for a workout (at 10:30 pm). I was surprised to hear later that Thai food actually has a bunch of sugar hiding in it?! What the heck. Thank you for sharing this. Best of luck to you. The time will fly and soon you’ll have that lil sweetheart right there with you (and a lemonade and a brownie and some chips). :)
Sorry to hear this has happened. I had GD with my first of four children 32 years ago. While it was mild my doctor put me on a very strict diet not anything like what you are eating. I was allowed one carb serving for the entire day, two servings of dairy, 6 ounces of protein and very little fat. I was surprised to be told to eat five servings of fruit a day and I ate everything allowed as I was hungry for 22 hours of every day. I lost weight for the last three months of the pregnancy which upset my doctor but I doubt I ate more than 1200 calories a day. To this day I hate eating raw vegetables (love them cooked or in a salad). This is on my medical record and I will hear about it until the day I die. Just today I had blood work done for a visit and my A1c is being checked yet again. Last time it was 5.0 and the doctor was amazed but this is like the former smoker who hears it talked about at almost every doctor’s visit. When I got pregnant with my second child my doctor told me to expect it to happen again and I thought you had better think again. Three more children without GD and no type 2, 32 years and counting. This taught me to be extra careful with my health as the risk for diabetes is there but I am not happy how they overreacted and starved me for three months while pregnant.
I was diagnosed with Type II diabetes around 2009. My doc wanted me to take metformin. I said I would change my diet, as I’d read a great deal about the complete elimination of grains from the diet in relationship to diabetes. I am not giving medical advice, but I suggest your readers look into this. For the most part, this is what I have done. Just had my A1c etc. tested, and “no diabetes.” Any kind of bread, potatoes, rice, corn, pasta, contribute nothing essential to our diets that cannot be found elsewhere, in other foods such as vegetables, nuts, and seeds. If you just “must” have some, be sure to combine with protein and healthy fat to lower the impact of the grains.
Thank you for sharing this! I had GD with my first, now 3 months old. I had been eating healthy and working out 3 times a week. My doctor even promised me before the test that I would pass bc I was in good shape! I spent probably a week crying and felt like a failure and was convinced my baby would be early and large (he wasn’t). I hid the diagnosis from most people. In reality, it wasn’t awful. I found what I could eat and even though my meal plans had little variety, I remained diet controlled. Shockingly enough, pasta was a no no but a small amount of ice cream every night was fine – my ob said the fat often slows the sugar absorption down, so don’t be afraid to try new things. One ‘bad’ number here and there isn’t going to harm you or baby. My baby had high fluid levels but weekly non stress tests showed he was always fine. He stayed put 9 days past my due date and was not super huge like everyone kept warning me. The worst part for me were the comments from people who knew (“but you’re so healthy”). The diagnosis made me even healthier and helped me establish better eating habits, although I still ate cookies and brownies on repeat immediately after he was born and loved every bite. I was retested postpartum and passed with flying colors. Good luck with the last few weeks- you’ll enjoy those treats once baby girl is here :)
Thank you sooo much for this post! I am due in late August and my doc is having me do a 2nd round of testing (I have PCOS so they tested me early) and I have failed my first one again and have another 3 hour test on Monday. This is a welcomed post and will be referencing daily if I get the diagnosis.
Maybe this is the insensitive side of me, but big deal. Just like Type 2 diabetics, you will be cured as soon as you pop Kid #3 just like Type 2’s can help themselves out by working out and putting the fork down.
I have been a Type 1 diabetic since age 2 and I will NEVER be cured of this disease. I will forever be taking shots and checking my blood 4-10 times per day. Gestational and Type 2 are not diabetics. You don’t have to take shots, you don’t have to worry about DKA, seizures, or any of the other major events that I have had to deal with in the 35+ years of dealing with this. So what, pop the kid and you are cured!
I think when you start a comment with “maybe this is insensitive” whatever follows is pretty much bound to be insensitive 😉. The issue with this comment is that it supports some concepts that aren’t correct. Contrary to popular belief, not all people with type II Diabetes are overweight or have unhealthy eating habits. Some people for genetic and environmental reasons have a predisposition toward insulin resistance and over time some lose enough pancreatic function that they require insulin. As a Kristin points out in her post, even though GD resolves with delivery, there can be lifelong implications related to the diagnosis. Life isn’t a zero sum game. Just because other people’s craply and unfortunate circumstances are different than yours doesn’t mean they’re not crappy and unfortunate.
Wow. What an unfortunate attitude to have. JC, I would venture a guess that if you could find a cure for your type 1, and alleviate yourself of all the stresses and concerns as you note above, you would.
Why then not have compassion or understanding for someone who, even if temporarily, is facing challenges related to diabetes. And, in fact, GD comes with serious concerns–the placenta can deteriorate and put baby at risk. Baby can have their own blood sugar issues after birth and are in fact checked multiple times following delivery. Delivery can be complicated by shoulder dystocia and other issues. Some women with GD have to take insulin or other medications to regulate their blood sugar in order to keep baby and mom healthy.
Your comment is sadly calloused and insensitive to the world of challenges that gestational diabetes creates for moms and babies.
JC, they don’t understand. I was diagnosed with GD at 28 weeks. I was misdiagnosed with type 2 diabetes after the delivery of my son. Very few people seem to understand the difference between the two. Type 1 diabetes IS a VERY different disease, and Type 2 should have been called something else. A large majority of doctors don’t seem to be able to get it right either. I’m sorry that you have had to deal with it so long. I am burnt out after 20 years- 35 sounds overwhelming. *BUT* I am still kicking and it sounds like you are too. They have no idea how bad it is, and they should be thankful they don’t know. Keep calm, and test on. Best wishes.
I’m so sorry, but I have every confidence that YOU will tackle this and get through it. I appreciate all your posts about eating gluten-free and I appreciate YOU!