Home > Diet plans

Budget-friendly diet plan for gestational diabetes

Managing gestational diabetes doesn’t need to be expensive. A budget-friendly diet plan for gestational diabetes helps you control blood sugar levels during pregnancy without high costs. Focus on affordable, nutritious options to keep both you and your baby healthy.

Get grocery list
Budget-friendly diet plan for gestational diabetes photo cover

Diet plan grocery list

  • Whole wheat bread
  • Brown rice
  • Quinoa
  • Steel-cut oats
  • Greek yogurt
  • Cottage cheese
  • Eggs
  • Skinless chicken breasts
  • Lean ground turkey
  • Salmon
  • Canned tuna

  • Almond milk
  • Broccoli
  • Spinach
  • Kale
  • Bell peppers
  • Zucchini
  • Carrots
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Tomatoes
  • Apples
  • Blueberries

  • Strawberries
  • Avocados
  • Lentils
  • Black beans
  • Chickpeas
  • Almonds
  • Walnuts
  • Chia seeds
  • Olive oil
  • Peanut butter
  • Hummus

Save this list
Share this list
Article Reviewed
• Written by our editorial team.
• Published on June 5, 2024.
• Updated on Oct. 1, 2024.

Diet plan overview

The budget-friendly diet plan for gestational diabetes includes low-glycemic, affordable foods to help manage blood sugar levels during pregnancy. It features whole grains, legumes, and plenty of vegetables. This plan is designed to provide balanced nutrition for expectant mothers without high costs.

By focusing on budget-friendly ingredients, this diet supports a healthy pregnancy. It’s a practical way to manage gestational diabetes while ensuring both mother and baby get the nutrients they need.

Budget-friendly diet plan for gestational diabetes exemplary product

Foods to eat

  • Whole Grains: Brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat pasta are great for controlling blood sugar.
  • Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard offer important nutrients and fiber.
  • Lean Proteins: Chicken breast, turkey, and tofu are good protein sources without high fat.
  • Low-Glycemic Fruits: Berries, apples, and pears help manage blood sugar levels.
  • Healthy Fats: Avocados, olive oil, and flaxseeds provide necessary fats without spiking blood sugar.
quote icon

Studies find that people who east nuts five times per week have a decreased risk of developing heart disease compared to those who do not eat nuts at all.

Marc Gillinov, M.D., Steven Nissen, M.D.

Foods not to eat

  • Refined Carbs: White bread, pastries, and white rice can cause blood sugar spikes.
  • Sugary Beverages: Soda, sweetened teas, and energy drinks should be avoided.
  • High-Sodium Foods: Canned soups, processed snacks, and frozen meals can increase blood pressure.
  • Trans Fats: Found in many fried and commercially baked products.
  • High-Sugar Snacks: Candy, cookies, and cakes can rapidly increase blood sugar levels.

Main benefits

The budget-friendly diet plan for gestational diabetes focuses on affordable, low-glycemic foods that help manage blood sugar levels. This plan can help you balance nutrition without overspending. It often includes versatile ingredients that can be used in multiple dishes, reducing waste. You’ll also find it easier to maintain a healthy diet through pregnancy without the financial strain.

Budget-friendly diet plan for gestational diabetes graph

📊 Around 12% of the US population has diabetes (Source)

How to budget on this diet plan

Eating for gestational diabetes doesn't mean sacrificing your budget. Focus on whole grains like brown rice and quinoa for sustained energy. Lean protein sources like chicken breast and fish are budget-friendly and help regulate blood sugar. Frozen vegetables are your allies again - affordable and packed with essential nutrients. Plan your meals and avoid sugary drinks to keep your grocery bill in check.

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Get grocery list
picture showing a phone with a shopping list

7-Day Meal Plan for Budget-Friendly Diet for Gestational Diabetes

Day 1

  • Breakfast: Steel-cut oats with sliced strawberries and a sprinkle of chia seeds
  • Lunch: Grilled chicken breast with quinoa and steamed broccoli
  • Dinner: Baked salmon with brown rice and sautéed spinach
  • Snack: Apple slices with almond butter

Day 2

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt with blueberries and a handful of almonds
  • Lunch: Lentil soup with carrots, tomatoes, and garlic
  • Dinner: Tuna salad with mixed greens, avocado, and a drizzle of olive oil
  • Snack: Orange slices with a handful of walnuts

Day 3

  • Breakfast: Smoothie with spinach, banana, and almond milk
  • Lunch: Chickpea salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and olive oil dressing
  • Dinner: Grilled chicken breast with sweet potatoes and steamed green beans
  • Snack: Carrot sticks with hummus

Day 4

  • Breakfast: Steel-cut oats with blueberries and a sprinkle of chia seeds
  • Lunch: Black bean and corn salad with bell peppers and onions
  • Dinner: Baked salmon with quinoa and sautéed kale
  • Snack: Apple slices with almond butter

Day 5

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt with sliced banana and a sprinkle of chia seeds
  • Lunch: Lentil and vegetable stew with low-sodium vegetable broth
  • Dinner: Grilled chicken breast with brown rice and steamed broccoli
  • Snack: Blueberries with a handful of almonds

Day 6

  • Breakfast: Smoothie with spinach, apple, and almond milk
  • Lunch: Chickpea and quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes
  • Dinner: Baked salmon with sweet potatoes and steamed green beans
  • Snack: Orange slices with a handful of walnuts

Day 7

  • Breakfast: Steel-cut oats with strawberries and a sprinkle of chia seeds
  • Lunch: Black bean salad with bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes
  • Dinner: Grilled chicken breast with brown rice and steamed mixed vegetables
  • Snack: Carrot sticks with hummus

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Get grocery list
picture showing a phone with a shopping list
⚠️ Keep in mind

As with any dietary change, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before changing your dietary habits.

fact-checked review
Article reviewed
• Written by our editorial team.
• Published on June 5, 2024.
• Updated on Oct. 1, 2024.

Other diet plans

Mushroom diet plan for lowering cholesterol photo cover

Mushroom diet plan for lowering cholesterol

GO TO DIET PLAN

Mushroom diet plan for low sodium diet photo cover

Mushroom diet plan for low sodium diet

GO TO DIET PLAN

Mushroom diet plan for hair growth photo cover

Mushroom diet plan for hair growth

GO TO DIET PLAN