The Ultimate Guide to Gestational Diabetes Treats
“I’ve always had a huge sweet tooth, so when I first heard the word ‘diabetes,’ I thought for sure I’d have to say goodbye to all the ‘good stuff,’” says Julija, HIgedi founder. But here’s the thing – that’s not exactly how it works! Sweet treats don’t have to be completely off the table with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). It’s all about being smart with your choices and, yes, (we know, it’s a bit of a bummer) controlling your portions.
Gestational diabetes doesn’t mean you have to give up all your favorite treats. With the right balance of nutrients, you can still enjoy a variety of delicious sweets while keeping your blood sugar levels in check. This guide is here to help you navigate the world of GDM-friendly treats, with tips on how to choose, modify, and make treats that fit your health goals without compromising on flavor!
1. Regular Treats (Sweets You Can Still Enjoy, Just in Moderation)
Let’s be real – who doesn’t crave a good old sweet treat from time to time? The good news is, you don’t have to completely give up your favorites, you just need to enjoy them smartly. Think of your regular go-to sweets – like a (small) slice of cake, 1-2 cookies, or a scoop of ice cream. These are most probably absolutely fine, as long as you balance them out with protein, fiber, or healthy fats to help prevent a spike in blood sugars.
Examples of Balanced Treats
Chocolate & Almonds – A square or two of dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) paired with almonds or walnuts. The chocolate satisfies your sweet tooth, while the nuts add protein and healthy fats to keep blood sugar steady.
Cookie & Cheese – A small cookie paired with a slice of cheese. The protein and fat in the cheese help slow down the sugar absorption from the cookie.
A Balanced Meal + Ice Cream – Have a meal with plenty of protein and fiber first, then enjoy a small scoop of full-fat ice cream. This helps prevent a sudden blood sugar spike.
It’s all about balance (and, yes, portion size). Instead of eating sugar on its own, pair it with protein, fiber, or healthy fats to help your body process it more smoothly.
Portion Size: A Little Goes a Long Way
Yes, you can have sweets, but keeping portions in check is key. Even just a few bites can satisfy that craving without sending your blood sugar on a rollercoaster. When choosing a treat, try to pick one that’s higher in protein and has less added sugar—it’ll help keep things more balanced. Here’s what a smart portion looks like:
Cake: A small slice (choose one which is higher in protein and has less added sugar if possible, e.g. cheesecake, nut-base cakes.)
Cookies: 1-2 small ones (opt for a protein-rich option, like almond flour cookies).
Ice Cream: A small scoop (go for higher-protein options like Greek yogurt-based or full-fat ice cream).
Chocolate: A square or two (dark chocolate with 70% cocoa or higher).
Eating Order Matters (A Simple Trick to Help Manage Blood Sugar!)
Did you know that how you eat your food can actually make a difference in how your body processes sugar? The trick is starting with fiber, then protein, and saving carbs for last. This helps slow down how quickly sugar hits your bloodstream, keeping things more stable.
1. Eat some fiber first – A handful of nuts, a little side salad, or even some chia pudding.
2. Follow with protein – A piece of cheese, some Greek yogurt, or a boiled egg.
3. Now enjoy your treat – Your body will handle it much better this way!
2. Modified Regular Treats (Tweaking for a Healthier Version)
Okay, so you still love that cheesecake, but maybe the crust is the problem, or you can’t have it in a giant portion anymore. No worries – there’s always room for tweaking! By swapping out or modifying a few ingredients, you can still enjoy your favorite treats with a little less guilt.
Modified Regular Treat Ideas
Cheesecake (with a nut-based crust) – Instead of a sugary, traditional crust, use crushed nuts like almonds or pecans with a little butter or coconut oil. This adds healthy fats and lowers the carb content, making it a more balanced treat.
Cheesecake (crustless) – Skip the crust altogether! A crustless cheesecake is just as creamy and delicious but with fewer carbs. Perfect for a lighter, lower-carb option!
Low-carb Chocolate Cake – Craving cake? Go for one made with almond or coconut flour instead of regular flour, and swap the sugar for a low-carb sweetener. Bonus points for adding some protein powder or Greek yogurt to up the protein content!
Cookies (low-carb version) – Try swapping some or all of the flour with almond flour and replacing sugar with a low-carb sweetener. These tweaks make cookies much friendlier to your blood sugar while still being totally satisfying.
3. Low-Carb Treats (Because We All Need a Sweet Fix Without the Sugar Rush)
Low-carb treats are your best friend when managing gestational diabetes. You can still indulge in sweets without worrying about a big blood sugar spike. The key is to choose recipes with low-carb ingredients and avoid any added sugars.
Low-Carb Treat Ideas
Chia Pudding – Chia seeds are full of fiber and omega-3s, which makes them a great choice for GDM-friendly treats. Mix chia seeds with unsweetened almond milk, a dash of vanilla extract, and your favorite sweetener for a creamy, low-carb dessert. Bonus: It's so simple to make and packed with nutrients!
Avocado Chocolate Mousse – Yep, avocado! It’s creamy and smooth, making it the perfect base for a decadent chocolate mousse. Blend ripe avocado with cocoa powder, almond milk, and a sugar substitute for a rich, chocolatey treat that’s loaded with healthy fats. It's indulgent, yet super nourishing!
Coconut Macaroons – These little bites of joy are made with shredded coconut, egg whites, and a low-carb sweetener like monk fruit or stevia. They’re sweet, satisfying, and surprisingly low in carbs! Plus, they’re the perfect snack to keep you energized without the sugar crash.
4. Healthy Fats & Protein-Based Treats (For When You Want to Satisfy Your Craving and Stay Full)
Sometimes the best treats aren’t even sweet! Healthy fats and protein-based snacks or treats are a great option because they help keep you full longer, and they don’t cause big blood sugar swings.
Healthy Fats & Protein Treat Ideas
Nut Butter and Celery Sticks – A simple, yet satisfying combo! Pair almond or peanut butter with crunchy celery sticks for a quick snack that packs protein, healthy fats, and a nice crunch.
Cheese & Veggie Platter – Who says you need sweets to enjoy a treat? Grab some cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) and pair it with crunchy veggies like cucumber, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes. It’s filling, nutrient-dense, and perfect for a savory craving.
High-Protein Chocolate Pudding (with hard-boiled eggs) – Not your typical chocolate pudding, but trust us – you’ll never guess it’s made with boiled eggs! It’s rich, creamy, and surprisingly filling. The protein from the eggs helps balance the sweetness, making it a great chocolate fix without the blood sugar spikes.
Almond Butter Fat Bombs – Made with almond butter, almond flour, coconut oil, and a splash of vanilla, these little bites are filling, satisfying, and the perfect treat when you need something rich and indulgent without all the sugar.
5. Smoothies & Shakes (Blend It All Together for a Sweet Treat That’s Still Blood-Sugar Friendly)
Smoothies and shakes are an excellent way to get creative with your treats. You can pack in a bunch of nutrients and still have something that tastes like dessert. Plus, the bonus is you can sneak in some extra protein and fiber to help stabilize your blood sugar.
Smoothie & Shake Ideas
Berry Protein Smoothie – A refreshing, nutrient-packed smoothie that’s low in carbs and high in protein! Blend frozen mixed berries with unsweetened almond milk, a scoop of protein powder, a spoonful of peanut butter, and a handful of spinach. It’s sweet, creamy, and full of vitamins, protein, and healthy fats.
Chocolate Avocado Shake – Indulgent yet guilt-free! Blend a ripe avocado with unsweetened cocoa powder, almond milk, and a sweetener like stevia. Add a scoop of protein powder to make it extra filling. This shake is rich, creamy, and perfect for when you’re craving something decadent without the sugar crash.
6. Everything Sugar-Free (But Keep an Eye on the Carbs!)
Just because something is sugar-free doesn’t mean it’s carb-free. With gestational diabetes, it’s essential to remember that we need to count carbs, not just sugar. Sugar-free doesn’t always mean blood sugar-friendly. Many sugar-free products still contain carbs, sugar alcohols, or hidden ingredients that can affect your glucose levels. So while they may seem like the perfect guilt-free treat, it’s important to read labels and make sure they’re truly a good fit for managing gestational diabetes.
Artificial sweeteners are often used in sugar-free foods to help reduce sugar intake, but it's crucial to choose approved options and consume them in moderation.
Tips for Choosing Sugar-Free Treats
✔ Check the carb count – Some sugar-free treats still have just as many (or more!) carbs as regular versions.
✔ Watch out for sugar alcohols – Ingredients like maltitol can still spike blood sugar.
✔ Go for whole food swaps – Choosing naturally low-carb options is often the better way to go.
Examples of Sugar-Free Treats
Sugar-Free Gelatin – A light and refreshing treat! Just be sure to check the label to make sure it’s truly low in carbs.
Sugar-Free Cookies – Not all are created equal! Many are still high in carbs, so opt for ones made with almond flour or coconut flour instead of traditional flour.
Sugar-Free Chocolate – A great option if it’s made with natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit (and not loaded with sugar alcohols that can cause digestive issues).
Homemade Sugar-Free Treats – The best way to control ingredients! Try making your own treats with low-carb flours and natural sweeteners to keep things truly diabetes-friendly.
7. Fruits: Pair with Protein, and Go for Low-GI Options
Fruits can still be a part of your sweet treat rotation, but some fruits have higher glycemic indexes (GI) than others, meaning they cause your blood sugar to rise more quickly. Pairing fruit with protein or healthy fats can help balance things out.
How to Enjoy Fruit Without the Sugar Spike
✔ Go for lower-GI fruits – Berries, apples, pears, and cherries are better choices than tropical fruits like bananas or pineapple.
✔ Pair with protein or healthy fats – This helps balance blood sugar and keeps you full longer.
✔ Stick to a small portion – A handful of berries or half an apple is usually a good place to start.
Smart Fruit Combos
Apple & Peanut Butter – A classic! The protein and healthy fats in peanut butter help slow down how quickly the apple’s natural sugars hit your bloodstream.
Berries & Greek Yogurt – Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries paired with unsweetened Greek yogurt = a creamy, protein-packed treat that won’t spike your blood sugar.
Pear & Cheese – A few pear slices with some cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) make for a perfect sweet-savory snack that’s balanced and delicious.
Cherries & Almonds – A handful of fresh cherries (not dried!) with some almonds or walnuts adds fiber, protein, and healthy fats for a better blood sugar response.
Avocado & Cocoa – Blend half an avocado with a bit of cocoa powder and a sugar-free sweetener for a creamy, chocolatey fruit-based treat that’s full of healthy fats.
8. Store-Bought Gestational Diabetes Treats (Because Sometimes You Just Need Convenience)
Let’s be real—sometimes you just don’t have the time (or energy) to whip up a homemade treat. And that’s okay! The good news? There are plenty of store-bought options that can work for gestational diabetes.
The trick is reading labels carefully because even snacks marketed as “healthy” can be loaded with hidden sugars and sneaky carbs. The goal is to choose treats that are higher in protein and fiber while keeping added sugar to a minimum.
What to Look For
✔ Higher protein content – Helps slow down sugar absorption and keeps you full.
✔ More fiber – Balances blood sugar and supports digestion.
✔ Less added sugar – Even “healthy” brands can sneak in unnecessary sugars!
Chocolate & Cocoa-Based Treats
Dark Chocolate (70% or Higher)
A square or two of dark chocolate is a great low-sugar treat—especially when paired with healthy fats and protein to slow sugar absorption. Try:
Lily’s Dark Chocolate (sweetened with stevia), various flavors our top pick *Lily's Salted Caramel*
Hu Kitchen Dark Chocolate (no refined sugar), various flavors our top pick Hu Kitchen Organic Raspberry Cashew Butter*
Ghirardelli Intense Dark Chocolate Squares (good for portion control)
Chocolate Nut Clusters
Crunchy, satisfying, and packed with fiber and healthy fats. Look for options low in added sugar and made with whole nuts:
Manitoba Harvest Superseed Snack Clusters, Dark Chocolate *OUR TOP PICK*
Dark Chocolate-Covered Almonds
Almonds provide fiber, protein, and healthy fats, making this a great grab-and-go snack:
No Sugar Added Chocolates
No Sugar Added Peanut Butter Cups – Options like Reese’s, SkinnyDipped Peanut Butter Cups, or Lily’s are all great picks.
Russell Stover Chocolates, various flavors our top pick *Russell Stover Sugar Free Pecan Delights*
Frozen Treats
If you’re craving something cold and creamy, low-carb ice cream and Greek yogurt bars can be great options. Try:
Rebel Ice Cream, various flavors our top pick *Rebel Triple Chocolate*
Halo Top Keto Series, various flavors our top pick *Halo Top Sea Salt Caramel*
Yasso Greek Yogurt Bars, various flavors our top pick Yasso Mint Chocolate Frozen Greek Yogurt Bar *
Cookies, Wafers & Baked Treats
Some brands make treats using almond or coconut flour, which increases fiber and protein compared to traditional cookies. Try:
Protein & Snack Bars
Protein bars can be a great option if they’re low in carbs and high in fiber and protein. Try:
Quest Bars
KIND Bars
Nature Valley Protein Bars
Barebells Protein Bars *OUR TOP PICK*
No Cow Bars (plant-based)
UNREAL Dark Chocolate Coconut Bars *OUR TOP PICK*
Gummies & Candy Alternatives
Because sometimes you just need something sweet! If cravings hit, here are some options to try:
Shameless Snacks – Not super low-carb, but high in fiber to balance blood sugar.
SmartSweets Lollipops – No added sugar, a great on-the-go treat.
Classic GD-Friendly Treats
These treats are simple, satisfying, and great for managing blood sugar levels without feeling deprived.
Apple with Peanut Butter – A timeless favorite! Apples provide fiber, while peanut butter gives you healthy fats and protein. Together, they make a balanced, sweet, and savory snack that keeps you full and satisfied.
* Mix equal parts of peanut butter with Greek yogurt (or vanilla-flavored protein yogurt) for a protein-packed dip!
Greek Yogurt with Berries – Packed with protein and antioxidants, Greek yogurt pairs perfectly with low-GI berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. It’s a creamy, nutrient-rich treat that helps you stay full and supports stable blood sugar.
Greek Yogurt with Peanut Butter & Nuts – For a protein-packed snack, mix Greek yogurt with a spoonful of peanut butter and top with your favorite nuts. It’s a satisfying combination of creamy, nutty goodness and healthy fats.
Trail Mix – Create your own trail mix with a blend of unsweetened cranberries, seeds, and nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds. It’s a quick, on-the-go snack that’s low in carbs and high in healthy fats.
Cottage Cheese with Cinnamon & Chia Seeds – Cottage cheese is high in protein and pairs beautifully with a sprinkle of cinnamon and chia seeds, which offer extra fiber and omega-3s. This is a simple, low-carb snack that will keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Dark Chocolate & Almonds – A square or two of dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) paired with a handful of almonds makes for a sweet and crunchy treat. Plus, you get the added benefit of healthy fats and protein.
Not-So-Classical GD-Friendly Treats
In the mood for something a bit more fun or creative? Here are some lesser-known but equally delicious options to enjoy.
Avocado Chocolate Pudding – Blend ripe avocado with cocoa powder, a low-carb sweetener, and a little almond milk for a creamy, rich chocolate pudding. It’s packed with healthy fats and fiber for a satisfying, indulgent treat.
Strawberry-Chia Seed Pudding with Cottage Cheese – Blend fresh strawberries with creamy cottage cheese, a splash of milk, a hint of vanilla extract, and stir in chia seeds for added texture. Let it chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours for a thick, delicious pudding that's packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. A satisfying treat!
Cottage Cheese Ice Cream – Yes, you can make ice cream from cottage cheese! Blend cottage cheese with frozen berries and a dash of vanilla for a creamy dessert that’s perfect as is, or toss it in the freezer for a high-protein, low-sugar ice cream.
Peanut Butter Chocolate Fat Bombs – Mix peanut butter, coconut oil, and a bit of cocoa powder for a quick, no-bake treat that’s high in healthy fats and protein. These bite-sized treats are rich and satisfying, perfect for when you’re craving something sweet.
Avocado Popsicles – For a cool and refreshing treat, blend avocado, unsweetened coconut milk, and a touch of stevia, then freeze into popsicle molds. The result is a creamy, sweet snack that’s perfect for a hot day.
For even more inspiring treat ideas, be sure to check out our Not So Classic GD Snack Ideas blog post.
Let’s Talk About Even More Fun & Easy Treats!
So, we’ve covered both the classic and the not-so-classic treats—but what about those extra fun, super easy-to-make desserts that you might not have thought of? These treats are light, refreshing, and take just minutes to put together, making them perfect for when you need something sweet without the hassle. From fluffy Jello mousse to protein-packed cottage cheese ice cream—let's go!
Sugar-Free Jello Magic
Creamy Jello Mousse – Jello + Greek yogurt + heavy cream → Blend until light and fluffy. Chill for a creamy, guilt-free dessert!
Jello Ice Pops – Jello + lemon juice + blended berries → Freeze in popsicle molds for a refreshing summer treat.
Jello Cheesecake Fluff – Jello + softened cream cheese + almond milk → Blend for a no-bake cheesecake-style treat!
Jello Chia Pudding – Jello + chia seeds + almond milk → Let sit overnight for a fun, jelly-like chia pudding.
Jello Pudding Cups – Jello + Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt → Stir for an easy, high-protein pudding alternative.
Cottage Cheese Creations
Cottage Cheese Mousse – Cottage cheese + (frozen) berries + vanilla extract → Blend for a creamy, protein-packed mousse.
Chocolate Cottage Cheese Pudding – Cottage cheese + cocoa powder + sweetener → Blend for a rich and creamy treat.
Cottage Cheese Banana Split – Cottage cheese + banana slices + dark chocolate drizzle + chopped nuts → A fun, healthier twist on a classic dessert.
Cottage Cheese Cookie Dough Dip – Cottage cheese + almond flour + vanilla extract + sweetener + sugar-free chocolate chips → Blend for a smooth, edible cookie dough-style dip.
Cottage Cheese Ice Cream – Cottage cheese + frozen berries/peach chunks + vanilla extract → Blend, freeze, and enjoy a protein-rich frozen treat!
Cottage Cheese Chocolate Truffles – Cottage cheese + cocoa powder + almond flour + low-carb sweetener → Blend, roll into balls, and coat with cocoa powder or shredded coconut. Chill before serving!
Coconut Almond Truffles – Cottage cheese + almond butter + shredded coconut + vanilla extract → Mix, shape into balls, and roll in more shredded coconut. Chill before serving!
Greek Yogurt Delights
Greek Yogurt Mousse – Greek yogurt + sugar-free Jello mix → Blend until light and fluffy for an easy, mousse-like treat!
Chocolate Peanut Butter Yogurt Dip – Greek yogurt + cocoa powder + peanut butter + sweetener → A delicious dip for apple slices or strawberries.
Lemon Cheesecake Yogurt Cups – Greek yogurt + cream cheese + lemon juice + sweetener → Mix, chill, and top with nuts for a cheesecake-inspired snack.
Greek Yogurt Ice Cream (Berries) – Greek yogurt + frozen berries + vanilla extract → Blend, freeze, and enjoy a refreshing frozen dessert.
Greek Yogurt Ice Cream (Chocolate Peanut Butter) – Greek yogurt + cocoa powder + peanut butter + almond milk → Blend until creamy, freeze, and enjoy a protein-packed ice cream.
Greek Yogurt Apple Crumble – Greek yogurt + baked apples + cinnamon + nuts → A warm, cozy dessert with all the flavors of a classic crumble.
Greek Yogurt Chocolate Truffles – Greek yogurt + cocoa powder + almond flour + sweetener → Roll into balls and coat with coconut or cocoa powder for a rich, bite-sized treat.
Final Thoughts
Gestational diabetes doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to all your favorite treats! I know, at first it might seem like you’re going to have to cut out everything sweet, but honestly, that’s not the case. With a little planning and smart choices, you can still have your dessert and enjoy it too! It’s all about finding that balance. By mixing in some healthier options and controlling portions, you can treat yourself from time to time. So, don’t stress – you can still indulge, just in a way that works for you!
FAQ: Gestational Diabetes-Friendly Treats
1. Can I have sweets if I have gestational diabetes?
Yes! You can still enjoy sweets, but it’s all about moderation and balancing them with protein, fiber, and healthy fats to keep your blood sugar stable. Be mindful of portion sizes and avoid indulging in large servings of sugary treats at once.
2. What’s the best way to modify regular treats?
You can modify many regular treats by swapping out high-carb ingredients. For example, use almond flour instead of regular flour, and replace sugar with low-carb sweeteners like stevia or erythritol. You can also reduce portion sizes or eliminate parts of the treat, like a cheesecake crust or sugary frosting, to make it healthier.
3. Can I eat fruit on gestational diabetes?
Absolutely! Fruits are fine, but it’s important to choose low-GI options like (e.g. berries, apples, peaches). Pair fruit with protein (like nut butter or Greek yogurt) to slow down the absorption of sugar and help stabilize your blood sugar.
4. What’s the deal with sugar-free treats?
Sugar-free doesn’t necessarily mean carb-free. Many sugar-free treats still contain carbs, which can affect your blood sugar levels. Always check the labels for carb content and portion size. If you're choosing sugar-free options, make sure they’re also low in carbs.
5. Can I have low-carb desserts if I have gestational diabetes?
Yes, low-carb desserts are an excellent choice! They help you avoid sugar spikes while still satisfying your sweet cravings. Look for treats made with low-carb ingredients like almond flour, coconut flour, or chia seeds.
6. How do I balance treats with my meals?
Treats are best enjoyed as part of a balanced meal or snack. Pair your sweets with protein, fiber, and healthy fats to prevent blood sugar spikes. For example, enjoy a small piece of dark chocolate with a handful of nuts, or have an apple with peanut butter.
7. What if I eat a treat and my blood sugar goes higher than expected?
If you experience a higher-than-expected reading, here are a few things you can do to bring it down:
Get moving: A short walk or light physical activity after eating can help your body process glucose more effectively.
Hydrate: Drink water to stay hydrated. Proper hydration helps your body manage blood sugar levels more efficiently.
Relax: Stress can elevate blood sugar levels, so try to unwind with deep breathing or gentle stretching.
Check in with your care team: If you find yourself consistently getting higher numbers, it might be time to adjust your meal plan or consult your dietitian for personalized advice.
Remember, one spike doesn’t define your management of gestational diabetes. Keep focusing on trends and stay consistent with your healthy habits!
8. How do I know what treats are best for me?
Everyone’s body reacts differently, so it’s important to monitor your blood sugar levels after eating. Test your blood sugar to see how certain treats affect you, and work with your healthcare provider or dietitian to tailor your treat choices to your personal needs.
9. Can I eat chocolate with gestational diabetes?
Yesm but opt for dark chocolate with a higher cocoa percentage (70% or more) to keep the sugar content lower. A small square or two, paired with a handful of nuts, can make for a satisfying treat.
10. Are sweetened beverages okay?
It’s best to avoid sugary drinks like soda, fruit juice, and sweetened coffee drinks since they can cause quick blood sugar spikes. Instead, try flavored sparkling water, unsweetened iced tea, or water infused with fresh fruit for a refreshing alternative.