Dates & Gestational Diabetes: How to Safely Prep for Labor

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Can You Eat Dates with Gestational Diabetes?

If you’re managing gestational diabetes and nearing the end of pregnancy, you might be hearing a lot about dates for labor prep. Dates are said to help soften the cervix and support spontaneous labor—but what about their sugar content?

The good news: yes, you can eat dates with gestational diabetes— you just need to be intentional.

Note: Everyone tolerates food differently. Some people with gestational diabetes do better with dates than others. Try, test, and adjust based on your personal blood sugar response.

Why Are Dates Recommended for Labor Prep?

Several studies suggest that consuming dates during late pregnancy can lead to more favorable labor outcomes.

Dates are high in natural sugars, fiber, and nutrients, and research suggests that consuming them in the final weeks of pregnancy may:

  • Help ripen the cervix (making it more favorable for labor)

  • Potentially shorten the first stage of labor

  • Decrease the likelihood of needing medical induction or augmentation

One well-known study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology found that women who ate 6 dates per day starting at 36 weeks were more likely to go into labor spontaneously and had a greater cervical dilation upon hospital admission compared to those who didn’t eat dates.

Nutritional Info: Are Dates Too High in Sugar for GD?

Dates—especially Medjool dates—are naturally sweet and nutrient-rich, but also carb-heavy.

  • 1 Medjool date ≈ 18g of carbohydrates, of which about 16g is sugar

  • High in fiber, potassium, magnesium, and antioxidants

  • Moderate glycemic index (due to fiber content)

While they’re natural, these sugars still count. That’s why balancing them with protein and fat is crucial for anyone on a gestational diabetes-friendly diet.

How to Include Dates with Gestational Diabetes

Here’s how many mamas with GD are incorporating dates strategically into their diet during the last few weeks of pregnancy:

Pair with protein and fat

Eating dates with a source of protein or healthy fat (like nut butter, cheese, or Greek yogurt) helps slow the release of glucose into your bloodstream.

Example: 1-2 dates stuffed with natural peanut butter or paired with a handful of almonds.

Start small

Begin with 1–2 dates per day and check your blood sugar at the 1 or 2-hour post-meal mark. If your numbers stay in range, you may gradually increase.

Monitor your response

Not all bodies react the same. Some people tolerate Medjool dates better than others. Use your glucose monitor as your guide.

Spread them out

Instead of eating all your dates in one sitting, spread them over the day with snacks or meals to reduce glucose spikes.

How to Eat Dates Safely with Gestational Diabetes

Here are smart, blood sugar-friendly ways to incorporate dates into your daily routine in the final weeks of pregnancy:

Smoothie Ideas

Smoothie Idea #1:

Blend 1–2 pitted dates with:

  • Ice

  • Unsweetened almond milk

  • Protein powder

  • Nut butter (like almond or peanut butter)

Smoothie Idea #2:

Blend dates with:

  • Ice

  • A ready-to-drink protein shake (vanilla, chocolate, caramel, or coffee)

  • A spoonful of nut butter

Finger Foods & Snacks

Stuffed & Wrapped:
Stuff dates with ricotta or cream cheese, wrap with bacon, and bake at 350°F / 180°C for 25–30 minutes until crispy.

Baked with Greek Yogurt:
Stuff dates with almonds and ricotta, place in a dish, and pour Greek yogurt over the top. Bake at 350°F / 180°C for 20–25 minutes.

Savory Stuffing

Mix chopped dates with:

  • Chopped almonds

  • Ricotta or cream cheese

  • Garlic, spinach, and your favorite seasoning

Use as a flavorful stuffing for chicken, turkey, pork, or beef.

How Are We Getting Our Dates In for Labor Prep?

Some people with gestational diabetes have successfully worked 2–6 dates per day into their meals or snacks by balancing them properly. Others start with just 1 per day and increase based on their glucose numbers.

The goal isn’t to spike your sugar—it’s to support labor naturally, while keeping your readings within target range.

Final Thoughts

For those with gestational diabetes, dates are not off-limits—but they do require caution. Their carbohydrate load can impact glucose levels, so consuming them in small amounts alongside protein or fat and tracking your post-meal numbers is key to incorporating them safely.

As always, be sure to check with your OB or dietitian before adding anything new—especially in those final weeks of pregnancy.

FAQ: Dates & Gestational Diabetes

1. How many dates should I eat per day for labor prep?

Studies recommend 4–6 dates per day starting at 36–37 weeks, but if you have gestational diabetes, begin with 1–2 dates and monitor your glucose response.

2. What type of dates are best?

Medjool dates are most commonly used for labor prep, but they are large and high in carbs. Deglet Noor dates are smaller and may be easier to incorporate if you're concerned about carbs.

3. When should I start eating dates?

Start around 36–37 weeks. Always check with your provider to make sure it’s right for you.

4. Can dates induce labor?

Dates don’t induce labor directly. However, they help ripen the cervix, potentially shortening early labor and increasing the chances of spontaneous labor.

5. Can I eat dates if I failed the glucose test but haven’t been officially diagnosed?

Even if you’re borderline or under monitoring, dates should still be treated as a carb-heavy food. Start slowly, test your response, and consult with your care team.