Tips for Avoiding Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes develops when your body can’t effectively manage blood sugar levels during pregnancy. Hormonal changes can make it harder for insulin to do its job, which is why even women with no prior history of diabetes can develop it.

It’s also on the rise. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), diagnoses of gestational diabetes are trending upward. In 2016, 6% of pregnant women developed the condition, but it jumped to 8.3% by 2021. Research published in 2025 shows that the prevalence has climbed as high as 21.1% in some groups.

With all of this in mind, you may be wondering what you can actually do to reduce your risk.

Our team of expert providers at Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates checks your blood sugar levels and reviews your personal risk factors during your prenatal appointments. 

In the meantime, here are six practical, everyday steps you can take to support healthy blood sugar levels throughout your pregnancy.

1. Pair carbs with protein, especially at breakfast

What you eat and how you space it out matter.

Plan meals that balance protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. This helps prevent blood sugar spikes and crashes.

For example, instead of eating carbohydrates on their own, pair them with protein or healthy fats to slow how quickly sugar enters your bloodstream. This is especially important at breakfast. Research shows that choosing a higher-protein, lower-carbohydrate morning meal can help reduce post-meal blood sugar levels in women with gestational diabetes.  

Even if you don’t have gestational diabetes, this habit can help support more stable blood sugar levels and may reduce your risk of developing it.

2. Walk after each meal

Regular physical activity helps your body use insulin more effectively.

You don’t need intense workouts. In fact, consistent, moderate activity can make all the difference. Walking after you eat is especially helpful. Studies show that walking for as little as 2-5 minutes after you eat can improve your post-prandial (post-meal) blood sugar levels.

In addition to walking, prenatal yoga and light strength training can support your body during pregnancy. 

Note: Don’t start any new exercise routine unless your Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates provider gives you the green light.

3. Don’t overdo the added sugars 

You don’t need to eliminate sugar completely, but being aware of hidden sugars can help you stay within a healthy range.

Pay attention to:

• Sugary drinks and juices
• Processed snacks and desserts
• “Healthy” foods that still contain added sugars

Cravings are normal, especially during pregnancy. Instead of trying to ignore them, plan for them. If you’re craving something like ice cream or cookies, try pairing a smaller portion with protein (like Greek yogurt or a handful of nuts) to help reduce a blood sugar spike. 

You can also look for balanced alternatives that still feel satisfying, so you don’t feel restricted and end up overdoing it later.

4. Don’t skip meals

Going too long without eating can lead to larger blood sugar swings later in the day.

Instead, plan to eat regular meals and snacks spaced throughout the day. This helps keep your blood sugar more stable and supports consistent energy.

5. Keep up with prenatal care

Regular prenatal visits allow your provider here at Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates to monitor your health and screen for gestational diabetes at the appropriate time.

If you have risk factors, such as a family history of diabetes or prior gestational diabetes, your provider may recommend earlier or more frequent screening.

6. Manage weight gain thoughtfully

Weight gain is a normal and necessary part of pregnancy, but gaining more than recommended can increase your risk of gestational diabetes.

You don’t have to guess what the right weight gain target is on your own. We can help guide you on what’s appropriate for your body and stage of pregnancy. For example, you may need to eat 1800 calories during your first trimester, 2200 during your second trimester, and 2400 during your third trimester if you started pregnancy at a normal weight and are carrying one baby. If you’re pregnant with twins or triplets, you’ll need to eat more than that. 

Know that some risk factors are out of your control

Even if you do everything “right,” gestational diabetes can still develop. 

If gestational diabetes does develop, our team can step in early to help you manage it effectively. In some cases, it can be controlled with diet and exercise alone. If medication is needed, we’ll guide you through safe, evidence-based options to support both your health and your baby’s.

If you have questions about your risk or how to manage blood sugar during pregnancy, your provider at Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates can help guide you every step of the way.

Call 770-422-8505 or click here to schedule an appointment at our Marietta, Georgia, office.