Hi, it’s Julija (HIgedi’s founder)! Christmas is honestly my favorite time of year, but I know how tricky it can feel when you’re managing gestational diabetes—especially with all the holiday food traditions swirling around. I’ve been there, and I want you to know you absolutely can enjoy the season (and the food!) without stress or guilt.
If you’re feeling a little anxious about what’s actually safe to eat, you’re not alone. Holiday tables are usually loaded with “should I, shouldn’t I?” moments. My approach: focus on what you can have, swap in a few smart tweaks, and most importantly, let yourself celebrate. You deserve to enjoy the flavors, the memories, and the company—without second-guessing every bite. This menu is all about tasty, festive options that keep your blood sugar steady and your holiday spirit high.
Start with roast beef, ham, turkey, or another protein. This helps slow down glucose absorption and keeps you fuller longer.
Think green beans, Brussels sprouts, salads, or roasted veggies—these are your best friends for balance and fullness.
Enjoy potatoes, stuffing, or bread in small portions (just a few spoonfuls). Savor, don’t pile!
If you’re going to a gathering, bring your own side or dessert so you know there’s something safe (and delicious) for you.
Eat a balanced breakfast and snack so you’re not ravenous by dinnertime.
Check 1–2 hours after eating to see how your body responds—everyone’s different! Knowledge is power, and even if your number isn’t ideal, at least you know how to respond (more water, a little walk, etc.).
Even a quick 15–20 minute walk after dinner can help lower blood sugar (and gets you moving away from the cookie tray!).
Here’s my go-to Christmas menu: festive, full of flavor, and blood sugar-friendly. Let’s make this holiday feel joyful and delicious—no perfection required.
A flavorful and elegant main dish that’s perfect for a festive table!
Ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Juice of 1 lemon
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
8 strips of bacon
1 large apple, thinly sliced
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken stock
¼ cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
Instructions:
In a bowl, combine the lemon juice, minced garlic, pepper, and salt. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wrap each chicken breast with 2 strips of bacon and secure with toothpicks if needed.
Place the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts in a baking dish. Arrange the apple and onion slices around the chicken.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes.
Remove the dish from the oven and pour the heavy cream and chicken stock over the chicken, apples, and onions. If using, sprinkle the crumbled blue cheese on top.
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15–20, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is fully cooked.
Remove the toothpicks if used, and serve the chicken with the creamy apple-onion sauce spooned over the top. Pair with a side of roasted vegetables or a low-carb mash for a festive feast!
A tender cut of meat slow-roasted with aromatic spices. It’s a flavorful and juicy centerpiece for your holiday feast.
Ingredients:
3 lb beef roast or pork loin
1 tbsp ground cumin
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground cloves
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lemon, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
In a bowl, mix together cumin, cinnamon, cloves, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Rub the spice mixture over the meat, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
In a large ovenproof pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown the meat on all sides.
Once browned, add minced garlic to the pan with half a cup of liquid (stock, water, etc.) and sliced lemonif using, and place it in the oven. Roast for 2-3 hours, depending on the size of the meat, until tender.
Let the meat rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
A simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs well with just about any main.
Ingredients:
1 small head of cabbage, shredded
1 medium onion, finely sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp butter (or olive oil)
1 tsp cumin
1 tbsp toamto paste (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the onion and sauté until softened, about 4–5 minutes.
Stir in minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Add shredded cabbage, salt, pepper, and tomato paste if using. Stir to combine.
Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized.
Serve warm!
A stunning side dish that’s as delicious as it is beautiful.
Ingredients:
1 whole cauliflower head
3-4 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp ground turmeric
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a small bowl, mix olive oil, cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
Rub the oil and spice mixture all over the cauliflower head.
Place the cauliflower on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil.
Roast for 40-45 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden.
Slice and serve!
A low-carb and creamy mash that’s just as comforting as the classic version.
Ingredients:
1 whole cauliflower head, chopped into florets
2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup butter
½–1 cup half-and-half or milk (adjust for desired consistency)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Boil cauliflower and potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 10–12 minutes.
Drain and mash the cauliflower and potatoes together until smooth.
Stir in the cheddar cheese, butter, and steaming hot half-and-half or milk. Mix well until creamy and smooth.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve warm as a delicious and comforting side dish!
Christmas-Inspired Deviled Eggs, My Way! I promise, these will be a hit at any festive gathering! These deviled eggs are a fun and delicious twist on the classic, and they’ll add some festive flair to your holiday spread.
Ingredients:
6 hard-boiled eggs
¼ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup fried onion, chopped
¼ cup walnuts, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Cut hard-boiled eggs in half and remove the yolks.
In a bowl, mash the yolks and mix with mayonnaise, fried onion, walnuts, salt, and pepper.
Spoon the mixture back into the egg whites and serve!
A refreshing, protein-packed salad that's perfect for the holiday table.
Ingredients:
2 cooked chicken breasts, chopped
¼ cup pistachios, chopped
½ cup grated hard cheese (Parmesan or Pecorino works well)
½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
1-2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
3 cups mixed lettuce, baby spinach or shredded cabbage (I am a cabbage girl!)
¼ cup chopped red onion (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine chopped chicken, pistachios, grated cheese, mayonnaise, and apple cider vinegar.
Add mixed lettuce, spinach or finely shredded cabbage, and toss everything together.
If using, add chopped red onion and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
A festive, and easy-to-make snack perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients:
20 cherry or grape tomatoes
20 small fresh mozzarella balls
20 fresh basil leaves
1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional)
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Toothpicks or small skewers
Instructions:
On each toothpick, thread one tomato, followed by a basil leaf folded in half, and then a mozzarella ball. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
Arrange the skewers on a platter. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Sprinkle lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper for added flavor.
Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before serving.
These savory, bite-sized treats are perfect as an appetizer or a side dish.
Ingredients:
12 large mushroom caps (cremini or white mushrooms)
½ cup crumbled blue cheese
¼ cup chopped walnuts
¼ cup cream cheese (softened)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Clean the mushroom caps and remove the stems. Set aside.
In a bowl, mix crumbled blue cheese, cream cheese, garlic powder, and chopped walnuts. Stir until smooth.
Stuff each mushroom cap with the cheese mixture and place them on a baking sheet.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
This one is too cute! Create a festive platter shaped like a Christmas tree, and I guarantee all your guests will love it. Perfect for snacking throughout the day or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
Various cheeses (pasteurized)
Assorted nuts (almonds, walnuts, pistachios)
Veggies (cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, pickled onions, pickles, olives)
Crackers
Berries (blueberries, blackberries, cranberries)
Herbs (thyme, rosemary) for decoration
Instructions:
Arrange the cheeses, nuts, veggies, and crackers in the shape of a Christmas tree on a large platter.
Add a few fun elements, like a star made from pickles or cherry tomatoes at the top!
A low-carb, nutty cookie that’s a perfect Christmas treat.
Ingredients:
¼ cup peanut butter
½ ripe banana
½ cup almond flour or meal
¼ tsp winter spice mix
⅓ tsp baking powder
For the Thumbprint Filling:
1 tsp peanut butter mixed with 2 pieces of melted dark chocolate
or
Natural peanut butter for a lower-carb option
Instructions:
In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter, mashed banana, almond meal, and baking powder. Mix until a smooth dough forms.
Roll the dough into small balls (about 9–10 pieces). Place them on a parchment-lined air fryer tray or baking sheet. Using your thumb or the back of a teaspoon, gently press the center of each ball to create an indent.
Cook the Cookies:
Air Fryer Method: Air fry at 340°F (170°C) for 8 minutes.
Oven Method: Bake at the same temperature for 10–12 minutes until the edges are set and slightly golden.
Let the cookies cool for a few minutes. Fill the indent with either the peanut butter and melted chocolate mixture or plain peanut butter.
Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
A rich and creamy cheesecake without the added carbs from a crust.
Ingredients:
16 oz (450g) cream cheese, softened
½ cup (120g) sour cream
2 large eggs
¼ cup sweetener of your choice
½-¾ tsp ground cardamom
1 tsp vanilla extract
1-2 tsp lemon juice
pinch of salt
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish with butter or non-stick spray.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, sweetener, ground cardamom, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and salt. Use an electric mixer or whisk to beat the mixture until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps. Lastly, add the eggs and beat until just incorporated.
Pour the batter into the prepared pie dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–40 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. The top should be lightly golden.
Remove the cheesecake from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up.
Slice and serve chilled, optionally garnished with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of ground cardamom for extra flair.
A refreshing, festive drink to enjoy with your meal.
Ingredients:
Sparkling water
Lemon slices
Frozen cranberries
Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs
Instructions:
Fill a glass with sparkling water.
Add lemon slices, frozen cranberries, and a sprig of thyme or rosemary.
Serve chilled.
A rich, warming drink to enjoy on a chilly holiday evening.
Ingredients:
2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
¼ tsp ground cinnamon
⅛ tsp ground cloves
¼ tsp ground ginger
1 cup unsweetened almond milk
Sweetener of choice (optional)
Whipped cream for topping (optional)
Instructions:
In a small saucepan, combine cocoa powder, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger.
Gradually pour in the almond milk, starting with a small amount to help combine the dry ingredients without clumps, then add the rest. Heat over medium heat, whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth and hot.
Taste and add sweetener if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Pair carbs with protein or healthy fats to help keep blood sugar steady.
Don’t skip meals—regular eating helps avoid spikes and crashes.
Focus on what you can enjoy, not just what you’re avoiding.
Give yourself permission to celebrate (and to rest!).
Whole roasted almonds coated in a thin layer of dark chocolate and finished with a refreshing peppermint touch. With 4g of protein and just 11g of carbs per serving (about 18 almonds), they're a festive favorite.
These gluten-free ginger spice cookies offer a delightful ginger zing with warming holiday spices. Each serving (about 8 cookies) provides 3g of protein and 14g of carbs.
These crispy gingerbread wafers feature at least 30% less sugar than most leading wafer cookies, making them a lighter choice for the holidays. A serving (about 8 cookies) contains 2g of protein and 18g of carbs.
A festive assortment of sugar-free chocolates perfect for holiday gifting or treating yourself. Each piece is sweetened with sugar alcohols, making them a lower-carb indulgence for the season.
One of the top holiday picks! This bar features a creamy vanilla nougat center topped with peppermint candy frosting. Each bar packs 20g of protein and 20g of carbs (2g fiber and 7g sugar alcohols). A festive, indulgent treat.
Rich, creamy, and full of holiday cheer, this Greek yogurt captures the cozy flavors of spiced nog while packing 11g of protein and 15g of carbs per serving. Made with only natural ingredients, it's a perfect festive snack to keep you satisfied.
Another not an official seasonal flavor, but a great fit for the holidays. This thick and creamy non-dairy option provides 10g of protein and 12g of carbs per serving. Made with just 12 simple ingredients, its warm cinnamon notes make it a perfect treat for the season.
A zero-sugar sparkling water collection featuring four festive flavors—Cranberry Frost, Winter Punch, Apple Cider, and Ginger Lime. Each one is crisp, refreshing, and perfectly balanced between tart and sweet. Ideal for holiday parties or as a refreshing treat throughout the season.
I hope these recipes inspire you to create a delicious, festive holiday spread that’s not only GD-friendly but also full of flavor. No holiday is ever perfect, and that’s okay. If you have a high reading or something doesn’t go as planned, it’s not a failure—it’s just real life. The most important thing is being present, making memories, and giving yourself a little kindness. You’re doing an amazing job, and you absolutely deserve to enjoy this season. Let me know if you try any of these recipes or share your own creations in the HIgedi app—other mamas on the same journey will definitely appreciate it!
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a joyful holiday season!
Julija, HIgedi Founder
1. Can I really eat dessert with gestational diabetes?
Generally, yes—you can enjoy dessert! It’s all about portion size and balance. Pair a small serving with some protein or fat, and make sure to check your blood sugar afterwards to see how your body responds. Everyone’s different, so test your response and see what works for you.
2. What’s the best way to handle holiday parties with gestational diabetes?
Absolutely go and have fun! The best approach is to plan ahead: eat a balanced snack before you go, bring a dish you know works for you, and don’t stress about being perfect. But do check your blood sugar after—you’ll learn what works best for your body.
3. Are potatoes totally off-limits with gestational diabetes?
Not necessarily. Potatoes can fit into a GD-friendly meal if you keep portions small and pair them with protein and fiber (like in the cheesy mash above). Test your blood sugar after eating to see how you personally handle them.
4. How do I politely say ‘no’ to foods that don’t work for me?
It’s totally fine to say, “That looks amazing, but I’m focusing on what helps me feel my best right now.” Most people will understand. If you’re unsure, test your blood sugar and use that info to guide your choices.
5. What if my blood sugar goes high after a holiday meal?
It happens! The key is not to panic. Drink some water, take a gentle walk, and remember: one reading doesn’t define you. Use it as information for next time—everyone’s body reacts differently.
6. What if I feel guilty about enjoying holiday food?
You deserve to celebrate and enjoy good food! Guilt doesn’t help your blood sugar or your mood—so focus on balance, self-kindness, and the memories you’re making. One meal won’t make or break your journey.
This menu and advice are for informational purposes only and aren’t a substitute for professional medical advice. Always check with your healthcare provider about your unique needs. If you have questions or concerns, reach out to your care team—they’re on your side!
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