Newly Diagnosed with Gestational Diabetes: What to Expect?

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First, take a deep breath and try not to panic. Millions of women have been where you are and successfully managed gestational diabetes (GD)—you can do it too! The beginning may feel overwhelming, especially as you're navigating uncharted waters, but it does get easier once you understand how your body reacts to different foods. Everyone’s experience is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to GD. But don’t worry, you’ll learn what works for you through trial and error. The first few weeks are all about learning, so don’t be discouraged if things don’t go perfectly at first. You're doing great just by taking steps to learn and manage your health.

Step 1: Get Your Glucose Monitor and Strips

The first thing you'll need is a glucose monitor and test strips to track your blood sugar. Most likely, you'll be testing four times a day:

  • Fasting (as soon as you wake up)

  • After each main meal (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)

Some providers recommend testing an hour after your meal, while others prefer two hours. The timing usually depends on your glucose tolerance test results—whether you spiked at the one-hour or two-hour mark. Be sure to ask your doctor what timing they prefer.

Blood Sugar Targets

While every office has slightly different guidelines, here are some general blood sugar targets:

  • Fasting: Under 95 mg/dL (some prefer under 90)

  • 1 hour after a meal: Under 140 mg/dL

  • 2 hours after a meal: Under 120 mg/dL

Your fasting reading is the first thing you’ll test each morning, so be sure to do it right after waking up. While any activity can affect your results, it’s usually fine to get up to use the bathroom and wash your hands first.

Finding Your Carb Tolerance

The first couple of weeks are about figuring out what carbohydrates you can tolerate. It’s important to keep eating carbs for your baby’s development, but finding the right ones is key! Most likely, you’ll be eating three main meals and three snacks per day to help keep your blood sugar levels stable. The last snack of the day is often called a bedtime snack and can help regulate your overnight glucose levels.

Carb targets can vary by provider, but here are some general recommendations:

  • Breakfast: 30g carbs

  • Lunch: 45-60g carbs

  • Dinner: 45-60g carbs

  • Snacks: 15-30g carbs

The key to managing GD is to always pair carbs with protein. A general rule of thumb is to pair 1 carb serving (15g) with 1-2 protein servings (1 serving = 7g protein), though you may need even more protein. Breakfast can be the trickiest meal since we’re most sensitive to carbs in the morning due to the body’s glucose release during the night. A bedtime snack can help regulate fasting numbers, but if it doesn't, medication may be needed—and that’s totally okay.

The Importance of Snacks and Consistent Eating

It’s important not to skip meals, and snacks between meals are equally essential. Going too long without food can cause your body to release glucose, leading to blood sugar spikes. The goal is to keep your levels stable, avoiding both highs and lows. Low blood sugar can be just as dangerous as high blood sugar, so consistent eating is key.

Meal and Snack Ideas

If you're looking for meal and snack ideas, we've compiled some helpful suggestions in our blog posts. For example, we’ve put together The Ultimate List of 64 Snack Ideas for Gestational Diabetes. It’s packed with easy options that pair carbs with protein to help you stay on track.

Everyone’s GD Journey Is Different

Gestational diabetes affects everyone differently. Some people can tolerate foods like potatoes, while others may not. Testing is essential to figure out what works for you. For instance, some women do well with certain types of grains or fruits, while others don’t.

Staying Active

Incorporating some physical activity after meals is a great way to help lower blood sugar levels. Even light activity, like walking or doing household chores, can make a difference. Find something that works for you and fits into your daily routine.

Medication, If Needed

As pregnancy progresses, your blood sugar levels might become harder to control. If your doctor recommends medication or insulin, don’t panic! It might seem overwhelming at first, but medication can be a helpful tool in managing your numbers. Many women feel less stressed once their levels are under control.

Remember, It's Not Your Fault

The most important thing to remember is that there's nothing you could have done to prevent gestational diabetes. It’s caused by how your placenta processes glucose, and it’s different from Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. Don’t feel like you’ve failed or that it’s your fault—it isn’t! The key is managing it, whether through lifestyle changes, medication, or a combination of both.

You’ve Got This!

With the right mindset, support from your care team, and some trial and error, you’ll get through this. Managing GD might feel overwhelming at first, but as you learn what works for you, it becomes easier. Stay positive, take it one day at a time, and know you’re doing an amazing job for both you and your baby.

Good luck, and remember—you’ve got this, Mama! Download the HIgedi app for support, tips, meal inspiration and a community that’s with you every step of the way. 💪💜