11 Sandwich Recipes for Gestational Diabetes: Meals for Every Day
Let’s build some delicious sandwiches, mamas-to-be! Sandwiches are incredibly versatile and perfect for quick, satisfying meals. We’ve put together 11 tasty sandwich options, complete with all ingredients listed along with their carb and protein counts. Feel free to swap, omit, or add any ingredients you like. Sandwiches are a fantastic way to use up leftovers, so don’t hesitate to toss in an extra veggie or protein.
Please keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on specific brands and quantities used, so these figures are for guidance. The total counts are based on 2 slices of Dave’s Killer Bread Thin Sliced Powerseed, which provides 6 grams of protein and 22 grams of carbs. We’ve also created a bread comparison for some low-carb options—you can check it out here.
Quick Tips for Gestational Diabetes Meal Planning
Remember, always balance your carbs with fiber and protein. Since bread is packed with carbs, adding protein-rich ingredients (like eggs, chicken, or tuna) and fiber-packed vegetables (like avocado, spinach, and cucumbers) is key to keep your blood sugar stable. Managing blood glucose levels is especially important for individuals with gestational diabetes. Be mindful of portion sizes of carbohydrate foods and pair them with protein and healthy fats to create balanced meals and snacks. This not only helps regulate blood sugar levels but also ensures you and your baby receive all necessary essential nutrients.
Sandwich Recipes for GD-Friendly Meals
1. Breakfast Sandwich
2 slices Dave's Killer Bread Thin Sliced Powerseed: 6g protein, 22g carbs
2 eggs (scrambled): 12g protein
1 slice (1 oz) cheddar cheese: 7g protein
2 slices of turkey bacon: 5g protein
½ avocado: 1.5g protein, 6g carbs
Total: 31.5g protein, 28g carbs
2. Mexican Sandwich
2 slices Dave's Killer Bread Thin Sliced Powerseed: 6g protein, 22g carbs
3oz/85g grilled chicken breast: 26g protein
¼ avocado: 1g protein, 3g carbs
2 tbsp salsa: ~2g carbs
1 slice (1 oz) pepper jack cheese: 7g protein
¼ cup black beans, canned: 3.5g protein, 10g carbs
½-1 cup lettuce: 1g carbs
Total: 43.5g protein, 38g carbs
3. Italian Sandwich
2 slices Dave's Killer Bread Thin Sliced Powerseed: 6g protein, 22g carbs
4 slices salami: 12g protein, 1g carbs
2 slices provolone cheese: 14g protein, 2g carbs
½ tomato: 2g carbs
1 tbsp pesto: ~ 1.5g protein, 1g carbs
½ - 1 cup spinach leaves: 1g protein, 1g carbs
Total: 34.5g protein, 29g carbs
4. Greek Sandwich
2 slices Dave's Killer Bread Thin Sliced Powerseed: 6g protein, 22g carbs
3oz/85g grilled chicken breast: 26g protein
½ cucumber: 2g carbs
2 tbsp tzatziki sauce: ~2g protein, 3g carbs
½ tomato: 2g carbs
2 tbsp Feta cheese, crumbled: 2g protein, 1g carbs
Total: 36g protein, 30g carbs
5. Spicy Turkey Avocado Sandwich
2 slices Dave's Killer Bread Thin Sliced Powerseed: 6g protein, 22g carbs
3oz/85g roasted turkey: 23g protein
¼ avocado: 1g protein, 3g carbs
1 slice pepper jack cheese: 7g protein, 1g carbs
1 tbsp mayo
1 tbsp hot sauce: 1g carbs
½-1 cup lettuce: 1g carbs
Total: 37g protein, 28g carbs
6. Chicken Roasted Pepper Sandwich
2 slices Dave's Killer Bread Thin Sliced Powerseed: 6g protein, 22g carbs
3.5oz/100g roasted peppers: 1g protein, 6g carbs
2 oz/56g grilled chicken breast: 18g protein
2 tbsp hummus: 2g protein, 6g carbs
½ - 1 cup spinach leaves: 1g protein, 1g carbs
Total: 28g protein, 35g carbs
7. Tuna Egg Avocado Sandwich
2 slices Dave's Killer Bread Thin Sliced Powerseed: 6g protein, 22g carbs
2 small cans of tuna (4 oz/112g): 22g protein
½ avocado: 1.5g protein, 6g carbs
1 egg: 6g protein
½ bell pepper: 0.5g protein, 3g carbs
¼ red onion: 2g carbs
Total: 36g protein, 33g carbs
8. Chicken Eggplant Sandwich
2 slices Dave's Killer Bread Thin Sliced Powerseed: 6g protein, 22g carbs
2oz/56g grilled chicken breast: 18g protein
1 cup eggplant, roasted or pan-fried: 1g protein, 5g carbs
1 slice mozzarella cheese: 7g protein, 1g carbs
¼ cup no sugar added marinara sauce, for example Rao's Homemade Marinara Sauce: 1g protein, 3g carbs
Total: 33g protein, 31g carbs
9. Chicken Peanut Butter Sandwich
2 slices Dave's Killer Bread Thin Sliced Powerseed: 6g protein, 22g carbs
2 tbsp natural peanut butter: 8g protein, 6g carbs
3oz/85g grilled chicken breast: 26g protein
1 tbsp sriracha or hot sauce: 1g carbs
¼ cup shredded carrots: 0.5g protein, 3g carbs
½ cucumber: 2g carbs
Fresh cilantro
Total: 40.5g protein, 34g carbs
10. Tuna Cottage Cheese & Pickle Sandwich
2 slices Dave's Killer Bread Thin Sliced Powerseed: 6g protein, 22g carbs
2 small cans of tuna (4 oz/112g): 22g protein
¼ cup cottage cheese: 7g protein, 3g carbs
1 pickle: 1g protein, 2g carbs
1 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tsp Dijon mustard
½-1 cup lettuce: 1g carbs
Total: 36g protein, 28g carbs
11. Salmon Sandwich
2 slices Dave's Killer Bread Thin Sliced Powerseed: 6g protein, 22g carbs
3.5 oz/100g salmon: 23g protein
2 tbsp cream cheese: 2g protein, 2g carbs
½ avocado: 1.5g protein, 6g carbs
½ cucumber: 2g carbs
1 tbsp capers
Fresh dill
1 tsp lemon juice: 1g carbs
Total: 32.5g protein, 33g carbs
FAQ: Gestational Diabetes and Sandwiches
1. Can I eat sandwiches with gestational diabetes?
Yes! Sandwiches can be a great option for those managing gestational diabetes, especially when made with low-carb bread and protein-rich fillings. The key is balancing the carbs with protein and healthy fats, which helps stabilize blood sugar levels.
2. What bread should I use for a low carb sandwich?
For our calculations, we’ve used Dave’s Killer Bread Thin Sliced Powerseed, which provides 6g of protein and 22g of carbs per 2 slices. However, gestational diabetes affects everyone differently, and there’s no one-size-fits-all bread. We recommend testing different options and observing how your body reacts to find what works best for you.
Some great bread options to consider for lower-carb choices include:
Complex grain and seeded breads: These breads tend to have more fiber, which can help stabilize blood sugar levels. Look for options that feature whole grains, like spelt or quinoa, and seeds such as sunflower or chia for added nutrients.
Sourdough: The fermentation process in sourdough makes it easier to digest and may have a lower glycemic index than regular bread. It’s a great option for those who want to enjoy bread without spiking blood sugar.
Almond flour bread: Low in carbs and high in healthy fats, almond flour bread is a popular choice for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. It’s grain-free and provides a satisfying texture.
Cloud bread: A lighter, airy alternative made primarily from eggs and cream cheese, cloud bread is low in carbs and can be a good option for sandwiches if you’re looking to cut down on carb intake.
Remember to test different types of bread and see how your blood sugar responds. Don't forget to pair your sandwich with non-starchy vegetables and lean proteins to help balance the carbs and support stable blood sugar levels.
3. How can I lower the carbs in my sandwich?
You can reduce carbs by opting for low-carb bread and skipping sugary condiments like ketchup. Using low-carb wraps instead of bread is another great option! To find more ideas for wraps, discover these 11 low-carb-wraps.
4. How can I control my blood sugar while eating sandwiches?
A: Always balance your sandwich by pairing it with fiber-rich veggies, lean proteins, and healthy fats like avocado or olive oil. Avoid overly processed meats, and be mindful of portion sizes, especially when consuming carbohydrate-rich ingredients.
Tried one of our sandwich ideas or have a tasty recipe to share? Join us on the HIgedi app and share your creations with fellow mamas! We’d love to see what you’ve been cooking up.