Gestational Diabetes & Newly Diagnosed: What to Expect?

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First—deep breath, Mama. I know this isn’t how you pictured your pregnancy going.

When I was diagnosed with gestational diabetes, I was completely caught off guard. It started with a phone call from my provider, and honestly, the news left me in total shock. I didn’t even know what questions to ask—I just remember sitting there, wondering what I had done wrong (spoiler: nothing). If that’s where you are right now, I promise: it gets better.

Millions of women go through this every year—and manage it successfully. You can do this. You’re not alone.

GD usually shows up around 20–24 weeks, when the placenta starts pumping out hormones that make it harder for your body to use insulin properly. That’s not your fault—it’s just how pregnancy works sometimes. The first few days or weeks might feel like information overload, especially as you figure out testing, carb targets, and what actually works for your body. But with each meal, each blood sugar reading, you’ll start to learn what feels right.

A healthy, balanced diet is the cornerstone of gestational diabetes management, and it’s okay to ask for help—whether that’s from a dietitian, your provider, or a supportive community (like the one we’ve built at HIgedi). No two journeys look the same. Give yourself grace in the beginning. You’re not failing—you’re learning. And just by being here, reading this, and trying to understand your body better, you're already doing so much more than you think.

This guide will walk you through the basics. Let’s take it one step at a time.

—Julija, HIgedi Founder

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 readings and monitor your blood glucose levels. 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 (5.3 mmol/L)
    (some providers prefer under 90 mg/dL / 5.0 mmol/L)

  • 1 hour after a meal: Under 140 mg/dL (7.8 mmol/L)

  • 2 hours after a meal: Under 120 mg/dL (6.7 mmol/L)

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 to manage blood sugar levels! Most likely, you’ll be eating three main meals and three snacks per day to help keep your blood sugar levels stable. A healthy diet plays a crucial role in managing gestational diabetes, so consulting a dietitian for personalized meal planning is advisable. 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. Consistent eating helps manage gestational diabetes by maintaining blood sugars and avoiding spikes and lows. 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

In the early days of gestational diabetes, figuring out what to eat can feel confusing and overwhelming. One minute you're told to cut carbs, the next you're told to eat them—but only the "right" ones, and always with protein. It’s a lot.

We've pulled together a variety of helpful posts to make planning a little easier—whether you're craving something quick, creative, or plant-based. Each suggestion focuses on pairing carbs with protein to help keep your blood sugar steady.

No Foods Are Totally Off-Limits with GD

When it comes to gestational diabetes, there are no strict “off-limits” foods—aside from general pregnancy restrictions like unpasteurized cheese, raw meat, or certain types of fish. Managing GD isn’t about banning entire food groups; it’s about portion control, balancing carbs with protein and healthy fats, and learning individual tolerance.

That last one—personal tolerance—can be one of the trickiest parts, but it becomes clearer with regular testing and observation. It’s also a common misconception that sweets must be entirely eliminated. While it's true that some desserts can spike blood sugar, it’s the total carbohydrate content that matters, not just sugar alone. And yes—there’s a big difference between simple and complex carbs, but that doesn’t mean pregnancy has to be treat-free.

Desserts can still have a place in a GD-friendly diet, especially when paired with protein or enjoyed in moderation. Many find that making thoughtful swaps or adjusting timing can make all the difference.

Looking for ideas that actually work? These posts are full of tips and treats:

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. Physical activity can also help reduce the risk of high blood pressure during pregnancy.

Medication, If Needed

As pregnancy progresses, your blood sugar levels might become harder to control. If your doctor recommends medication or insulin injections because diet and exercise are not enough, don’t panic! It might seem overwhelming at first, but medication can be a helpful tool in managing your numbers. Managing blood sugar levels through medication, including insulin injections, is crucial to prevent complications. 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 gestational diabetes 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. 💪💜

FAQ: Pregnancy & Gestational Diabetes

1. Is gestational diabetes my fault? Did my diet or lifestyle cause it?
Absolutely not! Gestational diabetes isn’t something you caused. It happens due to hormonal changes during pregnancy that affect how your body processes insulin. While eating well and staying active can help manage blood sugar, GD is not the result of something you did wrong.

2. Is my baby going to be okay?
With proper management, most babies are born completely healthy! The key is keeping blood sugar levels stable through diet, exercise, and medication if needed. Your doctor will closely monitor your baby’s growth and development to ensure everything stays on track. Additionally, monitoring the baby's blood sugar levels after birth is crucial to prevent complications like hypoglycemia.

3. Could I have had gestational diabetes for a long time without knowing?
It’s possible. Many women don’t get tested until 24–28 weeks, but some may have had higher blood sugar levels earlier without knowing. That’s why early testing is recommended if you have risk factors or had GD in a previous pregnancy. The good news? Now that you know, you can take steps to manage it!

4. Why me?
It’s a question so many of us ask. The truth is, GD can happen to anyone, even those who eat healthy, exercise, and have no risk factors. It’s not about what you did or didn’t do—it’s simply how your body responds to pregnancy hormones. You’re not alone in this!

5. Will I need insulin?

Not everyone needs insulin, but if diet and exercise aren’t enough to control your numbers, medication may be recommended.

6. Will gestational diabetes go away after birth?

In most cases, yes! However, it’s important to get tested postpartum as GD increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.

7. What happens if my blood sugar is too high?

Occasional spikes happen and don’t mean you’ve failed. However, consistently high readings should be discussed with your doctor to adjust your plan.

8. Can I have a healthy pregnancy with GD?

Absolutely! Millions of women manage GD successfully and deliver healthy babies. The key is monitoring your blood sugar, eating balanced meals, and following your doctor’s guidance.

9. Who is at a higher risk of developing gestational diabetes?

Certain factors can increase your risk of developing gestational diabetes, including:

  • Having polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS): Women with PCOS are at a higher risk of developing gestational diabetes.

  • Being overweight or obese: Carrying excess weight can make it harder for your body to manage blood sugar levels.

  • Having a family history of diabetes: If your close relatives have Type 2 diabetes, you may be more likely to develop GD.

  • Previous gestational diabetes: If you’ve had gestational diabetes in a previous pregnancy, your chances of having it again are higher.

  • Age: Women over 25 years old may have an increased risk of developing gestational diabetes.

  • Ethnicity: Hispanic, African American, Native American, and Asian women have a higher risk of developing GD.