Raspberry Leaf Tea & Gestational Diabetes: What You Need to Know

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Ladies, Are We Drinking Raspberry Leaf Tea? How Do You Like Yours?

If you’re navigating gestational diabetes and also sipping your way through pregnancy, you’ve probably heard about raspberry leaf tea. It’s often recommended in the third trimester for its supposed benefits—but like with most things in GD life, it’s normal to wonder: Is it actually safe? Could it help… or hurt?

We’ve done the digging so you don’t have to.
Let’s take a closer look at what raspberry leaf tea is, what the research (and real-life experience) says about its impact on blood sugar, and how you might enjoy it in a gentle, blood sugar-friendly way—if you're curious but cautious, me.

—Julija, HIgedi founder

* Note: Always seek professional advice and consult your doctor before making any changes to your routine.

What Is Raspberry Leaf Tea? (And Why Are So Many of Us Trying It?)

Raspberry leaf tea, also known as red raspberry leaf tea, is made from the leaves of the red raspberry plant (Rubus idaeus). This herb has a long history of use in herbal medicine, especially for pregnancy support. Traditionally, it’s believed to:

  • Strengthen the uterine muscles

  • Help tone the uterus to prepare for labor

  • Potentially reduce labor duration (some swear by this!)

Plus, it’s caffeine-free, hydrating, and naturally rich in nutrients like iron, calcium, and magnesium — which is always a win.

Is Raspberry Leaf Tea Safe for Gestational Diabetes?

The short answer: Yes, raspberry leaf tea is generally considered safe during pregnancy — but always check with your healthcare provider first.

When it comes to gestational diabetes, the research is limited. There's no strong evidence that raspberry leaf tea directly affects blood sugar levels, but it doesn't seem to raise them either. Since it's caffeine-free and naturally hydrating, it can be a great alternative to sugary drinks or caffeinated beverages that might spike blood sugar.

However, because raspberry leaf tea can stimulate uterine contractions, many experts recommend waiting until the third trimester to start drinking it.

How Raspberry Leaf Tea Can Support Your Pregnancy with GD

  • Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial for blood sugar control and overall health. Raspberry leaf tea can help you stay hydrated without added sugars.

  • Nutrient Boost: No carbs, no calories, just some helpful minerals like magnesium and iron.

  • Soothing Ritual: A warm cup of tea can be incredibly grounding when you’re dealing with food tracking, glucose checks, and general pregnancy exhaustion.

How Do You Take Raspberry Leaf Tea?

There are lots of easy (and blood sugar–friendly!) ways to enjoy raspberry leaf tea—hot or cold, plain or blended. Here are some go-to methods:

Classic Brew: Steep 1 teaspoon of dried raspberry leaf in hot water for 5–10 minutes. The tea is typically drunk by sipping 1–2 cups daily, usually starting in the third trimester to help prepare for labour and birth. It is recommended to start slowly with a small amount and gradually increase your intake as tolerated. Afternoon or evening tends to work best for some. Consuming raspberry leaf tea in the third trimester may help decrease the duration of the second stage of labour and support a smoother birth process.

Iced Raspberry Tea: Brew a stronger batch, let it cool, then pour over ice with lemon slices or a few fresh berries. Perfect for warm days or a refreshing change.

Slightly Sweetened: If your blood sugar allows, a touch of honey or sugar-free syrup, a cinnamon stick, or a slice of fresh ginger can add depth without much carb impact. (Or use a GD-friendly sweetener like stevia or monk fruit)

Tea Blends: Mix it up with other pregnancy-safe, caffeine-free herbs like lemon balm, peppermint, or ginger for variety and flavor.

Safety Tip: Consuming raspberry leaf tea is not recommended during the first trimester due to potential risks. Overconsumption can lead to intense contractions, so it should be consumed with caution. Always consult your healthcare provider before you drink raspberry leaf tea.

How Are GD Mamas Actually Drinking It?

We asked the HIgedi community how they’re sipping raspberry leaf tea without spiking—and here’s what real moms shared:

  • 🍋 Simple & Soothing: “Hot with lemon and just a tiny bit of honey—keeps my numbers in range.”

  • 🍹 Fruity & Fun: “I brew a few bags, then mix with diet cranberry juice!”

  • 🧡 Flavor Boost: “Unsweetened passion or orange tea blends beautifully with it and gives it some punch.”

  • 🧊 Ice Cold & Crisp: “I make a batch and chill it with fresh berries or a splash of sugar-free juice like Minute Maid Light.”

  • 🫖 Straight-Up: “I drink it plain. It's not winning any awards for taste, but it's not awful—and it does the job.”

  • 🌙 Cold Brew Style: “I do it ‘cold brew’ style—fill a jar with water and 2 tea bags, then leave it in the fridge overnight to drink in the morning or next day.”

Many also lean on safe, sugar-free sweeteners for that little extra taste without messing with blood sugar.

How to Choose Raspberry Leaf Tea for Gestational Diabetes + Top Picks

It’s important to pick a raspberry leaf tea that’s pure, safe, and blood sugar-friendly. Here’s what to look for:

  • 100% pure red raspberry leaf without fillers or added herbs

  • Organic and pesticide-free for pregnancy safety

  • Loose leaf or unbleached tea bags—whichever you prefer

  • No added sugars or artificial flavors that could affect blood sugar

  • Check ingredients carefully if it’s a blend, especially for GD safety

Our Favorite Picks

Final Thoughts (and a Few Reminders!)

  • Always check with your provider before starting herbal teas — especially in early pregnancy or if you’re on insulin.

  • Most mamas wait until the third trimester (usually around 32–34 weeks) before introducing raspberry leaf tea.

  • Start slow — maybe one cup a day — and see how your body responds.

  • Keep an eye on blood sugar the first few times, just to be sure it agrees with you.

Let us know how you like your raspberry leaf tea in the HIgedi app — we’re all about sharing what works, what’s tasty, and what feels good. 💛