3 Quick And Easy Gestational Diabetes Breakfast Ideas
Introduction
If you are one of the roughly 10% of pregnant people diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus, you’ll quickly discover that adapting your diet for the remainder of your pregnancy is your number one tool in managing GDM.
And since breakfast is the most important meal of the day, let’s talk about a few gestational diabetes breakfast ideas that are both healthy and delicious.
Insulin Resistance in the Morning
First thing in the morning, you are likely to be more insulin-resistant than later in the day. For this reason, it’s especially important to center breakfast around protein, fat, and fiber.
(Of course, everyone’s requirements are slightly different, so you should discuss your specific macronutrient goals with your healthcare provider!)
Below, find the three, gestational diabetes-friendly breakfast options that will help you start your morning right.
Breakfast Smoothie with Magnesium
This green smoothie is ideal for those who prefer something quick, easy, and liquid in the morning. Not only is it filled with nutrients, but it’s also super fast to prepare.
Smoothies are not generally the first choice for women who are dealing with gestational diabetes, since they are traditionally full of fruit. But, if you want to make your morning smoothie count, then add some healthy fats and protein!
The recipe below yields 1 serving. It’s filled with calcium, potassium, magnesium, folate, dietary fiber, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C.
To your blender, add a large handful of spinach, 2 teaspoons sunflower seeds, ½ a small avocado, 1 scoop collagen powder, 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of your choice), 2 tablespoons almond butter, a teaspoon of vanilla, and 6 ice cubes. Blend, then transfer to a tall glass. Enjoy immediately.
Everything Scrambled Eggs with Avocado
A classic for a reason, eggs and avocado allow you to start your day with healthy fat, protein, folate, and choline! And if you didn’t know, choline is the nutrient you need to help develop your baby’s brain.
Scramble 2-3 eggs in butter, agitating gently as they cook over low heat. Turn off the heat just before the eggs look fully cooked; season with salt and pepper. Slide the eggs onto a plate, alongside slices of avocado. Top everything liberally with everything bagel spice mix. If you like, add hot sauce.
Berry Overnight Oats
Oats, berries, and chia seeds are packed with pregnancy-friendly nutrients, as well as plenty of fiber and protein.
(Note: despite this, oats also contain lots of carbohydrates. If you are particularly sensitive, this might not be ideal for you first thing in the morning. It might still make a great afternoon snack, though!)
Using a fork, whisk 1 scoop vanilla, chocolate, or plain protein powder into ½ cup plain Greek yogurt, until the protein powder is completely incorporated. Stir in ½ cup oats, ½ cup berries, and 1 tablespoon chia seeds. Move to a jar or sealable container, and leave overnight in the fridge. (Note: this recipe can be made up to 2 days ahead.)
Conclusion
While eating for gestational diabetes can feel frustrating and confusing at times, it should also be a pleasure. At GD Kitchen, we write recipes to make this time less stressful, and more delicious. Check out our free, Ultimate Gestational Diabetes Food List!
Where Can I Get More Support?
GD Kitchen! I created this resource to solve a problem that I wish someone had already solved before my pregnancy. And I've teamed up with OB Rachael Sullivan, DO and nutritionist Jamie Askey, RN, so that you will have all the resources, and all the confidence, I wish I’d had.
If you need immediate help finding recipes that are designed for women on a GD nutrition plan, try our six free gestational diabetes recipes here. I personally spent hours in the kitchen developing each one. They’re great for the entire family.
Our other resources:
- GESTATIONAL DIABETES BASICS 101
- GLUCOSE METER TIPS & TRICKS + BLOOD GLUCOSE DIARIES
- THE RECIPE MEMBERSHIP
- THE FULL MEMBERSHIP
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