Ice cream can actually be a great sweet treat when you have gestational diabetes (GD)—you just need to be mindful of a few key things like portion size, sugar content, and how it fits into your overall meal. With the right approach, it can still be part of the plan.
Ice cream isn't off-limits: Lower-carb, higher-fat options can be enjoyed in moderation.
Check nutrition labels carefully: Focus on total carbohydrates, fat, protein, and added sugars.
Greek yogurt bars and other alternatives can be great choices.
Timing matters: Eat sweets after balanced meals to reduce blood sugar spikes.
There are store-bought and homemade options that are GD-friendly.
Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy, usually between 24–28 weeks, when the body can’t produce enough insulin to keep blood glucose levels in check. Controlling blood sugar is essential to protect both mother and baby.
A key strategy is eating regular, balanced meals and avoiding high-glycaemic foods that cause spikes in blood sugar. But that doesn’t mean you need to swear off sweets entirely. Ice cream, in the right form and portion, can still have a place in your diet.
When choosing ice cream, these four factors are essential:
Low Total Carbs (Ideally under 15g per serving)
Higher Fat Content (to slow sugar absorption)
Low or No Added Sugar
Higher Protein Content (helps slow glucose absorption)
Always check the nutrition label, and try to enjoy ice cream as part of a meal rather than on its own. If you're having it as a snack, make sure to pair it with enough protein or healthy fat—this combo can help slow down sugar absorption and keep your blood glucose more stable.
"Ice cream was by far one of my biggest cravings during my gestational diabetes journey. And let me be honest—if it weren’t for GD, I could’ve easily polished off an entire pint (or box… or gallon) on a daily basis. So if you’re in the same boat, I totally get it." — Julija, Founder of HIgedi
The good news? You don’t have to give it up entirely. There are store-bought ice creams that won’t completely throw off your blood sugar—and actually taste like real dessert. Serving size does matter (yes, sadly), but it’s not the only thing. Sweeteners, total carbs, fat content, and even the type of protein can all make a difference in how your body responds.
Here are some of our top picks to consider:
*Our Top Pick* Halo Top Peanut Butter Cup
Lower in sugar and calories than standard ice cream
Sweetened with stevia and erythritol
Higher in protein, which helps balance blood sugar
*Our Top Pick* Salted Caramel Almond
Great texture and flavor without added sugar
Sweetened with erythritol and monk fruit
*Our Top Pick* Mint Chip
Ultra-creamy, high-fat, and very low in net carbs
Sweetened with natural sugar alcohols like erythritol
*Our Top Pick* Mint Chip Swirl
Only 1g net carb per serving
Sweetened with monk fruit and erythritol
*Our Top Picks* Vanilla & Caramel Swirl Bars
Lower in sugar and carbs than traditional ice cream
Sweetened with maltitol and sucralose (note: may impact blood sugar in some people)
*Our Top Pick* Birthday Cake
Keto-friendly, low-carb, and ultra-smooth texture
Uses sweeteners like allulose and erythritol
Tip: Stick to modest portions (about ½ cup) and enjoy them after a balanced meal to help keep your glucose response stable.
Looking for something lighter or with fewer processed ingredients? These ice cream alternatives are perfect examples—plus, they often come with a little extra protein, fiber, or healthy fats to help keep blood sugar steady.
Greek yogurt is naturally high in protein, which supports more stable blood sugar levels—and when frozen, it transforms into a rich, creamy dessert.
Yasso Bars
*Our Top Picks* Fudge Brownie & Creamy Mango
5–6g protein per bar
Around 12–16g carbs
No artificial sweeteners
Great flavor and texture
Organic Greek Yogurt Bars, 365 by Whole Foods Market (US)
*Our Top Pick* Blueberry
Made with organic Greek yogurt
Mild sweetness, fruit-forward flavor
Great for a light and refreshing option
Great for anyone avoiding dairy or wanting a plant-based option.
KIND Frozen Treat Bar
*Our Top Pick* Dark Chocolate Almond Sea Salt
Creamy almond base
Coated in dark chocolate with chopped nuts
Satisfying and portion-controlled
So Delicious Dairy Free Coconut Milk Frozen Dessert
*Our Top Picks* Coconut Milk Sandwiches & Mocha Almond Fudge
Made with full-fat coconut milk for richness
Creamy, indulgent texture
Blood sugar-friendly when enjoyed in moderation
Frönen Frozen Dessert
*Our Top Pick* Chocolate
Made with minimal ingredients
Dairy-free, paleo-friendly
Lower sugar and gentle on blood sugar
Arctic Zero Non-Dairy Dessert
*Our Top Pick* Salted Caramel
Low-calorie, sometimes dairy-free or plant-based
Light and refreshing option with fewer carbs
Look for lower sugar flavors
Easy to make at home, and you control the ingredients.
Base Ingredients:
Full-fat Greek yogurt
A splash of vanilla extract
Sweetener to taste (for example, stevia, monk fruit, dates)
Add-ins:
Frozen berries or other low glycemic fruit, such as peach or nectarine
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Natural nut butters
Cinnamon, cardamom, or chopped nuts
How to: Blend everything, pour into a container, and freeze until firm.
Yes—this one’s trending for good reason! Cottage cheese creates an ultra-creamy, high-protein base that's surprisingly delicious once blended.
Base Ingredients:
Full-fat cottage cheese
Sweetener to taste (for example, stevia, monk fruit, dates)
Vanilla extract
Add-ins:
Cocoa powder
Peanut butter or almond butter
Frozen berries or other low glycemic fruit, such as peach or nectarine
Sugar-free chocolate chips
How to: Blend until smooth, freeze for a few hours, and enjoy a surprisingly decadent treat packed with protein.
Creamy, rich, and full of healthy fats and fiber.
How to: Blend ripe avocado with:
Cocoa powder
Sweetener to taste (for example, stevia, monk fruit, dates)
A splash of vanilla
A little almond milk or coconut milk to help blend
Freeze until firm. It’s like chocolate mousse meets ice cream.
Simple, refreshing, and satisfying—especially if you're craving something fruity and cold.
Look for lower-sugar, real fruit-based options with no added sugars.
GD-Friendly Store-Bought Options:
GoodPop Organic Freezer Pops – Made with fruit juice and no added sugar
Outshine Fruit Bars (No Sugar Added line) – Made with real fruit puree and juice, low in added sugar
Deebee’s Organic SuperFruit Freezies – Sweetened with fruit juice only *Our Top Pick*
Time treats with meals to reduce glucose impact.
Avoid late-night snacking, especially sugary foods without other nutrients.
Portion wisely: A small scoop or single bar is often enough.
Add protein/fat to your dessert (e.g., pair with nuts or cheese).
Always check your blood sugar 1–2 hours after eating new treats.
Let’s be honest—pregnancy is hard enough without feeling like you have to give up every comfort food. Ice cream doesn’t have to be off the table just because you’re managing gestational diabetes. In fact, with a few intentional choices, it can still have a place in your routine.
The key isn’t avoiding treats altogether—it’s finding versions that work for your body right now. That might mean choosing a higher-protein bar over a sugar-loaded pint, pairing your dessert with a balanced snack, or trying out a homemade version that you actually enjoy.
This phase is temporary, but your well-being—and your baby’s—is ongoing. Listening to your body, checking in with your care team, and giving yourself permission to enjoy food in a way that supports your goals can go a long way.
Ice cream might not be an everyday thing, but when you choose wisely, it can absolutely still be a yes.
1. Can I eat ice cream if I have gestational diabetes?
Yes, but it should be a low-carb, low-sugar option, eaten in moderation and ideally with a meal.
2. Are sugar-free ice creams safe?
Sugar-free ice creams can be a good option when you're managing gestational diabetes—but not all are created equal. While they typically have less of an impact on blood sugar, it’s still important to look beyond the “sugar-free” label.
Here’s what to check:
Total carbohydrates: Some sugar-free products still have a high carb count from other ingredients.
Sugar alcohols: Ingredients like erythritol and xylitol may cause bloating or GI discomfort in larger amounts.
Serving size: A small portion can fit into your plan, but doubling it might spike your blood sugar.
3. Which sweeteners are safe during pregnancy?
Not all sugar substitutes are equally safe or helpful when you're pregnant, especially with GD. Here's a breakdown of commonly used sweeteners in ice creams and frozen treats:
Considered Safe for Pregnancy & GD (in moderation):
Stevia: Natural, plant-based, with no effect on blood sugar.
Monk Fruit Extract: Also natural and blood sugar-friendly.
Erythritol: A sugar alcohol that's well-tolerated by most and doesn’t affect blood sugar.
Allulose: A newer sweetener that tastes like sugar but has minimal impact on glucose levels.
These are commonly found in brands like Yasso, Enlightened, Nick’s, Halo Top, and Rebel.
Use caution or avoid:
Xylitol, Sorbitol, Maltitol: These sugar alcohols can cause digestive issues and sometimes raise blood sugar slightly.
Aspartame (Equal): Generally recognized as safe during pregnancy in moderation, but some prefer to avoid it due to mixed research and sensitivity.
Saccharin (Sweet’N Low): Not recommended during pregnancy, as it may cross the placenta.
Sucralose (Splenda): Generally considered safe, but newer studies suggest it may affect gut health and insulin response—so moderation is key.
4. Are fruit-based sorbets or frozen yogurt better?
Not always. Many sorbets are high in sugar. Choose full-fat Greek frozen yogurt or lower-sugar versions for better blood sugar stability.
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