Nutritious Snack Ideas to Curb Your Sweet Tooth With Gestational Diabetes: Implement a Nutrition Plan with a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist

Gestational Diabetes is incredibly common, in fact, an estimated up to 10% of pregnancies are affected by it. You’re expecting. You’re learning to manage blood glucose levels with diet, checking levels on your glucometer. It’s summertime and you really, really want a sweet. We get it. Those cravings! And in a sugar-coated world, one in which our tastebuds have become accustomed to sugar in everything, it can be challenging to satisfy your sweet tooth .

It’s important to choose snacks that are low in sugar and high in fiber and protein. Initially, it might be hard to get used to the “less sweet” flavors, but your body will adapt quickly, and soon you won’t miss them at all! (Really!) 

As dietitian nutritionists, we want to optimize your nutrition and give you options! Here are some of our favorite sweet snacks for women who are managing gestational diabetes

  1. Fresh fruit salad with a dollop of Greek yogurt (watch the sugar levels in yogurt)
  2. A small apple or pear with a handful of nuts
  3. A slice of whole-grain toast with almond butter and sliced banana
  4. A small smoothie made with low-sugar fruits, such as berries or kiwi, and unsweetened almond milk or yogurt
  5. Dark chocolate (at least 75% cocoa) with a handful of almonds or walnuts
  6. Low-sugar protein bars or energy balls made with nuts, seeds, and dried fruit
  7. Baked sweet potato topped with cinnamon and a drizzle of almond butter
  8. Cottage cheese with sliced peaches or berries and a sprinkle of cinnamon
  9. Low-sugar Greek yogurt with sliced strawberries or raspberries and a drizzle of honey
  10. A homemade fruit sorbet made with frozen fruit and unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk.

It’s important for expecting moms to keep up with their prenatal care and appointments, as well as stick to their diet plan to reduce risks during pregnancy and labor. 

Sugar-Free Banana Bread Cake

Ingredients:

  • 2 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed bananas, applesauce, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
  3. In a separate mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, mixing until just combined.
  5. Stir in the chopped walnuts (if using).
  6. Pour the batter into a greased 9-inch cake pan.
  7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Let the cake cool before slicing and serving.