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36 Low-Carb Gestational Diabetes Lunch Ideas (Just 20 Mins!)

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Are you sick of the same old chicken or salad? Starving on a low-carb diet that just doesnโ€™t satisfy? Looking for gestational diabetes lunch ideas that are quick to prep and easy to bring to work?

low carb and on the go gestational diabetes lunch ideas for busy moms

I totally get it! When I was pregnant, I was busy juggling my elder daughter in the mornings and constantly out and about in the afternoons.

I needed quick, easily-packed gestational diabetes lunch ideas to help manage my sugar levels without sacrificing flavor.

Thatโ€™s why Iโ€™ve put together these amazing on-the-go lunch ideas that are not only delicious but also super easy to whip up. Within 20 minutes in fact.

Plus, these low-carb ideas cover everything for all picky eatersโ€”from beef and pork to seafood, vegan dishes, and salads. No matter what you’re in the mood for, there’s something here to keep your meals interesting and satisfying.

Because you and your baby deserve the best nutrition!

Related: Complete 7-days gestational diabetes meal plan (comes with easy recipes and detailed grocery list in PDF printable)

What can I eat for lunch with gestational diabetes?

The American Diabetes Association recommends pregnant women get 1,800-2,000 calories a day, with at least 175g of carbs, 71g of protein, and 28g of fiber.

If you break it down for lunch, thatโ€™s 400-600 calories, 30-45g carbs, at least 20g protein, and at least 8g fiber.

How to prep this in every meal?

No worries! Our on-the-go gestational diabetes lunch ideas are crafted to help you hit those goals as closely as possible.

In case you do not know, I have crafted quick and easy ideas for breakfast, dinner, desserts and even bedtime snacks too! Perfectly suitable for busy moms.

Now that youโ€™ve got the macros down, itโ€™s time to focus on quality, not just quantity. Hereโ€™s what you should prioritize in every low-carb meal to make it truly nutritious.

  1. Complex Carbohydrates: Stick to complex carbs like whole grains, oats, or sweet potatoes. These digest slowly, keeping your blood sugar in check.
  2. Lean Protein: Protein helps slow down the absorption of carbs, preventing spikes.
  3. Unsaturated Fats: Adding healthy fats like avocado, nuts, or olive oil can further stabilize blood sugar and keep you feeling full longer.
  4. Fiber: Fiber-rich foods like whole grains, fruits (low glycemic), and vegetables help improve digestion and control blood sugar.
  5. Hydration: Water or low-sugar beverages are essential for overall health and managing blood sugar.

Tips: Make sure to stick to portion size for sugar control and always go for low glycemic index foods.

Related: Low glycemic index food list up to +650 foods

Mornings can be a whirlwind. But I’ve learned that skipping meals isnโ€™t an option.

Instead, I opt for quick and easy meal prep that fits into my busy routine:

  1. Have a weekly meal plan: Proper meal plan can take the guesswork out of your daily meal prep. Check out my 7-day meal plan all tailored for you.
  2. Prep the night before: Donโ€™t leave it all for the morning rush. Dice veggies, marinate proteins, or even portion out snacks the night before.
  3. Batch cook on weekends: Grill up a batch of chicken, cook a pot of quinoa, or roast some veggies. Store them in the fridge for easy grab-and-go options during the week.
  4. Portion it out: Pre-portion your meals in containers so you can just grab them and pack. This also helps you stay on track with your macros.
  5. Keep it simple: Go for easy-to-assemble meals like wraps, grain bowls, or protein-packed salads.
  6. Double up recipes: Whenever you cook dinner, make an extra portion to pack for lunch the next day. Two birds, one stone.

Chicken

1. Chicken and Arugula with Avocado Spread
Chicken and Arugula with Avocado Spread - perfect as low carb gestational diabetes lunch ideas

Spread ยผ mashed avocado on 2 slices of whole grain bread. Layer 3 oz grilled chicken and ยฝ cup fresh arugula. Close sandwich and toast lightly if desired.

Macros: 450 calories, 35g carbs, 30g protein, 15g fat, 8g fiber

2. Lemon Herb Chicken Tostadas
Lemon Herb Chicken Tostadas

Layer 3 oz grilled lemon herb chicken on 2 crispy tostada shells. Top with ยผ cup shredded lettuce, 2 tbsp diced tomatoes, and 1 tbsp fresh cilantro. Drizzle with lime juice and a sprinkle of chili powder for extra flavor.

Macros: 400 calories, 30g carbs, 20g protein, 18g fat, 8g fiber

3. Buffalo Chicken Wraps
Buffalo Chicken Wraps - perfect as low carb gestational diabetes lunch ideas

Mix 4 oz cooked shredded chicken with 2 tbsp low-sugar buffalo sauce. Spoon the mixture onto 1 whole grain tortilla and drizzle with 1 tbsp light ranch dressing.

Macros: Calories: 410, Carbs: 30g, Protein: 30g, Fat: 22g, Fiber: 5g

4. Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Grilled Chicken
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Grilled Chicken

Grill 4 oz chicken breast for 5-6 minutes per side and slice. Sautรฉ 1 medium spiralized zucchini in a pan for 2-3 minutes. Toss with 2 tbsp pesto sauce and top with chicken. Serve with ยฝ cup roasted sweet potato on the side.

Macros: Calories: 500, Carbs: 25g, Protein: 32g, Fat: 24g, Fiber: 4g

5. Chicken Quesadilla with Whole Wheat Tortilla
Chicken Quesadilla with Whole Wheat Tortilla - perfect as low carb gestational diabetes lunch ideas

Place 4 oz grilled chicken and ยผ cup shredded cheese on one half of a whole wheat tortilla. Fold and cook in a skillet for 3-4 minutes per side until crispy. Serve with 2 tbsp salsa.

Macros: Calories: 400, Carbs: 30g, Protein: 32g, Fat: 15g, Fiber: 4g

6. Chicken BLT with Pesto Spread
Chicken BLT with Pesto Spread

Spread 1 tbsp pesto on 2 slices of whole grain bread. Layer 3 oz grilled chicken, 2 slices of cooked bacon, ยผ cup fresh lettuce, and 2 slices of tomato. Close sandwich and toast lightly.

Macros: 500 calories, 30g carbs, 35g protein, 20g fat, 10g fiber

Fish / Seafood

7. Smoked Salmon, Egg, and Avocado Toast
Smoked Salmon, Egg, and Avocado Toast - easy gestational diabetes lunch recipe during pregnancy

Toast 2 slices whole grain bread. For each slice of bread, spread ยผ avocado (mashed), then top with 1 oz smoked salmon and 1 poached egg. Sprinkle with black pepper and fresh dill. Drizzle with 1 tsp olive oil before serving.

Macros: 550 calories, 30g carbs, 30g protein, 35g fat, 12g fiber

8. Shrimp and Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Pita
Shrimp and Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Pita

Spread 2 tbsp roasted red pepper hummus inside a whole-wheat pita. Fill with 3 oz cooked shrimp, ยผ cup shredded lettuce, ยผ cup sliced cucumbers, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Macros: Calories: 330, Carbs: 370g, Protein: 25g, Fat: 10g, Fiber: 7g

9. Tuna Melt on Whole Grain Breads
Tuna Melt on Whole Grain Bread - easy gestational diabetes lunch recipe for picky eaters

Mix 1 can (4 oz) tuna with 1 tbsp low-sugar mayo. Spread on 2 slices of whole grain breads, top with ยผ cup shredded cheese, and broil until cheese melts (3-4 minutes). Serve with a side salad or veggies.

Macros: Calories: 450, Carbs: 30g, Protein: 32g, Fat: 18g, Fiber: 7g

10. Grilled Halibut and Guacamole Lettuce Wraps
Grilled Halibut and Guacamole Lettuce Wraps

Grill 4 oz halibut fillet for 4-5 minutes per side. Flake the fish and serve in 2 large lettuce leaves with 3 tbsp guacamole and 1 tbsp salsa. Serve with 2 slices of wholegrain bread on the side.

Macros: Calories: 400, Carbs: 30g, Protein: 20g, Fat: 24g, Fiber: 6g

11. Shrimp Tacos with Cabbage Slaw
Shrimp Tacos with Cabbage Slaw - easy gestational diabetes lunch recipe for picky eaters

Sautรฉ 4 oz shrimps in 1 tsp olive oil for 4-5 minutes. Serve in 2 small whole wheat tortillas with ยผ cup cabbage slaw (cabbage, lime juice, and cilantro).

Macros: Calories: 430, Carbs: 40g, Protein: 30g, Fat: 20g, Fiber: 8g

12. Smoked Salmon Bagel with Cream Cheese and Cucumber
Smoked Salmon Bagel with Cream Cheese and Cucumber

Spread 2 tbsp cream cheese on both halves of a toasted whole grain bagel. Layer 2 oz smoked salmon, ยผ cup sliced cucumber, and a sprinkle of black pepper.

Macros: Calories: 400, Carbs: 32g, Protein: 20g, Fat: 15g, Fiber: 6g

Beef

13. Sloppy Joe Lettuce Wraps
Sloppy Joe Lettuce Wrap - easy gestational diabetes lunch recipe for picky eaters

Cook 4 oz ground beef with ยผ cup low-sugar sloppy joe sauce until heated through. Serve in 2 large lettuce leaves with ยฝ cup roasted sweet potato on the side.

Macros: Calories: 400, Carbs: 30g, Protein: 30g, Fat: 22g, Fiber: 5g

14. Beef and Tomato Basil Pita Pizza
Beef and Tomato Basil Pita Pizza

Top 3 oz lean ground beef (cooked for 5-7 minutes) on a whole grain pita bread. Add ยผ cup sliced tomatoes, ยผ cup shredded mozzarella, and fresh basil leaves. Bake at 400ยฐF for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melted and the pita is crispy. Drizzle with a little olive oil before serving.

Macros: 450 calories, 35g carbs, 30g protein, 18g fat, 6g fiber

15. Beef Stroganoff with Whole Grain Pasta
Beef Stroganoff with Whole Grain Pasta - pregnancy lunch recipe on the go for GDM

Cook 4 oz beef strips in a skillet for 5-6 minutes. Add ยฝ cup mushrooms, ยผ cup onion, and ยผ cup low-sodium beef broth; simmer for 5 minutes. Serve over ยพ cup whole grain pasta.

Macros: Calories: 550, Carbs: 34g, Protein: 32g, Fat: 25g, Fiber: 6g

16. Philly Cheesesteak Roll-Ups
Philly Cheesesteak Roll-Up

In a skillet, sautรฉ 4 oz thinly sliced beef, ยผ cup sliced onions, and ยผ cup sliced bell peppers in 1 tsp olive oil over medium heat for 5-6 minutes until softened. Season with salt and pepper. Roll the mixture into a whole wheat tortilla with 2 tbsp shredded cheese.

Macros: Calories: 550, Carbs: 30g, Protein: 41g, Fat: 35g, Fiber: 6g

17. Cheesy Beef Hamburger
Cheesy Beef Hamburger - pregnancy lunch recipe on the go for GDM

In a skillet, shape 4 oz ground beef into a thin patty. Cook the patties for 3โ€“4 minutes per side for medium-rare or 5โ€“6 minutes per side for well-done. Add 1 slice of cheese during the last minute to melt. Assemble on a whole-grain bun with lettuce, tomato, and condiments.

Macros: Calories: 600, Carbs: 30g, Protein: 40g, Fat: 35g, Fiber: 7g

18. Beef Tacos with Whole Wheat Tortilla
Beef Tacos with Whole Wheat Tortilla

Sautรฉ 4 oz ground beef with low-sugar taco seasoning for 5-6 minutes. Serve in 1 whole wheat tortilla with ยฝ cup diced tomatoes.

Macros: Calories: 480, Carbs: 30g, Protein: 30g, Fat: 25g, Fiber: 6g

Pork

19. Grilled Pork Skewers with Veggies
Grilled Pork Skewers with Veggies - low carb gdm lunch recipe

Marinate 4 oz cubed pork tenderloin in your favorite seasoning. Thread the pork onto 2-3 skewers, alternating with chunks of ยฝ a medium bell pepper and ยผ of a medium onion. Grill for 10-12 minutes. Serve with 2 wholegrain toasts.

Macros: Calories: 480, Carbs: 30g, Protein: 30g, Fat: 25g, Fiber: 6g

20. Pork and Veggie Rice Paper Roll
Pork and Veggie Rice Paper Rolls

Soak 3 rice paper sheets until pliable. Fill each with 2 oz thinly-sliced cooked pork, ยผ cup each shredded carrots and cucumber, and fresh cilantro (optional ยผ cup cooked white beans if you have time). Roll tightly and serve with a sugar-free sauce of 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp rice vinegar, and chili flakes.

Macros: Calories: 450, Carbs: 30g, Protein: 35g, Fat: 20g, Fiber: 8g

21. Pork and Egg Breakfast Burritos
Pork and Egg Breakfast Burritos - low carb gdm lunch recipe

Scramble 2 eggs with 4 oz cooked ground pork and ยผ cup diced bell peppers. Serve in a whole wheat tortilla with 1 tbsp salsa.

Macros: Calories: 580, Carbs: 30g, Protein: 40g, Fat: 35g, Fiber: 6g

22. Grilled Pork Tenderloin Wrap with Veggies
grilled pork tenderloin wrap with veggies

Grill 4 oz pork tenderloin for 10-12 minutes, then slice. Serve in a whole wheat tortilla with ยฝ cup mixed greens, ยผ avocado, and 2 tbsp salsa.

Macros: Calories: 550, Carbs: 36g, Protein: 32g, Fat: 35g, Fiber: 10g

23. Pork Nachos with Cheese Dip and Veggies
Pork Nachos with Cheese Dip and Veggies

Cook 4 oz ground pork for 7-10 minutes. Top 1 oz baked whole grain tortilla chips with the ground pork, 2 tbsp shredded cheddar cheese, and ยผ cup diced bell peppers. Broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts. Serve with 2 tbsp cheese dip, and ยผ cup sliced jalapeรฑos and cherry tomatoes on the side.

Macros: Calories: 600, Carbs: 30g, Protein: 40g, Fat: 30g, Fiber: 7g

24. Cuban-Style Pork Sandwich
Cuban-Style Pork Sandwich

In a skillet, pan-sear 4 oz thinly sliced pork for 3-4 minutes per side until cooked through. Toast a whole-grain bun and spread mustard on the bottom. Layer the cooked pork, 2-3 pickle slices, and a slice of low-fat Swiss cheese. Close the sandwich and serve.

Macros: Calories: 550, Carbs: 30g, Protein: 40g, Fat: 30g, Fiber: 7g

Vegan / Vegetarian

25. Vegan Mushroom, Spinach, and Cheese Quesadilla Wrap
Vegan Mushroom, Spinach, and Cheese Quesadilla Wrap - low carb gdm lunch recipe

Spread 2 tbsp vegan cream cheese on a whole grain tortilla. Top with ยฝ cup sautรฉed mushrooms and ยฝ cup spinach. Fold the tortilla into a wrap and cook in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and the cheese melts.

Macros: Calories: 400, Carbs: 30g, Protein: 15g, Fat: 18g, Fiber: 6g

26. Vegan Breakfast Burritos with Tofu
Vegan Breakfast Burritos with Tofu

In a skillet, scramble 4 oz crumbled tofu with ยผ cup diced bell peppers and ยผ cup spinach over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve in a whole wheat tortilla with 1 tbsp salsa.

Macros: Calories: 400, Carbs: 32g, Protein: 20g, Fat: 20g, Fiber: 6g

27. Hummus and Grilled Veggie Sandwich
vegan hummus and grilled veggie sandwich - low carb gdm lunch recipe

Spread 2 tbsp hummus on both halves of 2 slices whole-grain bread. Layer with ยผ cup grilled zucchini, ยผ cup grilled bell peppers, and ยผ cup grilled eggplant. Add fresh basil leaves for extra flavor.

Macros: Calories: 350, Carbs: 30g, Protein: 15g, Fat: 6g, Fiber: 13g

28. Savory Oatmeal with Spinach and Nutritional Yeast
Savory Oatmeal with Spinach and Nutritional Yeast

In a saucepan, cook ยฝ cup rolled oats in 1 cup vegetable broth over medium heat until thickened, about 5 minutes. Stir in 1 cup spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Mix in 2 tbsp nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor and top with ยผ avocado.

Macros: Calories: 400, Carbs: 35g, Protein: 15g, Fat: 23g, Fiber: 8g

29. Peanut Butter Cup Tropical Smoothie
Healthy peanut butter cup tropical smoothie for gestational diabetes breakfast recipes 1

Blend ยฝ cup unsweetened almond milk, 2 tbsp peanut butter, 1 medium frozen banana, 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 tbsp chia seeds, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and ยผ cup ice until smooth. Pour into a glass and serve.

Macros: Calories: 380, Carbs: 38g, Protein: 16g, Fat: 22g, Fiber: 10g

30. Philly Cheesesteak Lettuce Wraps
Philly Cheesesteak Lettuce Wraps - healthy GDM lunch ideas for GDM moms

In a skillet, sautรฉ 4 oz sliced mushrooms and ยฝ cup sliced bell peppers in 1 tsp olive oil over medium heat for 5-6 minutes until softened. Season with salt and pepper. Serve the mixture in large lettuce leaves and top with 2 oz cashew cream or vegan cheese.

Macros: Calories: 380, Carbs: 30g, Protein: 20g, Fat: 18g, Fiber: 6g

Salad

31. Caprese Salad with Fresh Mozzarella and Basil
Low carb salad recipe for Caprese Salad with Fresh Mozzarella and Basil

Layer 4 oz fresh mozzarella slices, 1 medium tomato (sliced), and fresh basil leaves on a plate. Drizzle with 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar and 1 tsp olive oil. Serve with 1 slice whole grain bread on the side.

Macros: Calories: 450, Carbs: 20g, Protein: 20g, Fat: 30g, Fiber: 7g

32. Easy Jar Power Salad with Apple, Walnut, and Chicken
Apple, Walnut, and Chicken Jar Salad

Layer 1 tbsp balsamic vinaigrette dressing at the bottom of a jar. Add ยผ cup sliced apples, ยผ cup chopped walnuts, 4 oz grilled chicken breast (sliced), and 1 cup mixed greens. When ready to eat, shake the jar to mix.

Macros: Calories: 400, Carbs: 32g, Protein: 30g, Fat: 22g, Fiber: 6g

33. Waldorf Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing
Low carb salad ideas for Waldorf Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing

In a bowl, combine 1 cup diced apples, ยผ cup chopped celery, and ยผ cup walnuts. In a separate bowl, mix ยผ cup Greek yogurt, 1/4 tsp stevia powder (or 1/4 tsp monk fruit sweetener), and a squeeze of lemon juice. Toss the apple mixture with the dressing.

Macros: Calories: 300, Carbs: 30g, Protein: 10g, Fat: 20g, Fiber: 5g

34. Greek Salad with Feta and Olive Oil
Greek Salad with Feta and Olive Oil

Combine 1 cup chopped cucumbers, 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved), ยผ cup red onion (sliced), and ยผ cup Kalamata olives in a bowl. Crumble 2 oz feta cheese on top and drizzle with 2 tbsp olive oil and oregano.

Macros: Calories: 400, Carbs: 15g, Protein: 12g, Fat: 35g, Fiber: 8g

35. High-Protein Chefโ€™s Salad with Turkey and Eggs
High-Protein Chefโ€™s Salad with Turkey and Eggs

Combine 4 oz sliced turkey breast, 1 hard-boiled egg (sliced), 1 cup mixed greens, ยฝ cup cherry tomatoes, and ยผ cup cucumber (sliced). Drizzle with 2 tbsp vinaigrette dressing.

Macros: Calories: 400, Carbs: 20g, Protein: 36g, Fat: 10g, Fiber: 5g

36. Lean Beef Taco Salad with Avocado and Salsa
Lean Beef Taco Salad with Avocado and Salsa

In a bowl, mix 4 oz cooked lean ground beef, 1 cup shredded lettuce, ยฝ avocado (sliced), and ยผ cup salsa. Top with ยผ cup shredded cheese and 2 tbsp Greek yogurt as dressing.

Macros: Calories: 500, Carbs: 25g, Protein: 40g, Fat: 30g, Fiber: 7g

Check out: More quick and easy breakfast, dinner, dessert and bedtime snack ideas for gestational diabetes.

Can I go zero carb? Can I skip a meal with gestational diabetes?

Hell NO! When you cut out carbs frequently, your body can start producing ketones for energy, which can be harmful during pregnancy. High ketone levels have been linked to developmental issues for your baby.

Instead of going zero-carb, focus on healthy carbsโ€”like whole grains, beans, and veggiesโ€”that keep your blood sugar steady while fueling you and your baby properly.


What fast food can I have with gestational diabetes?

Of course YES! Navigating gestational diabetes doesnโ€™t mean fast food is off-limits!

Here’s how I did it. Make smart choices by opting for grilled items over fried, like a chicken sandwich or a salad loaded with non-starchy veggies and lean protein. Choose whole grain breads or wraps for extra fiber, and skip sugary drinks for water or unsweetened iced tea. Be mindful of portion sizes, and consider swapping fries for a side salad or fruit cup (agh this was harder for me).

Always check nutritional info when you can.


How can I satisfy my cravings with gestational diabetes?

During my third trimester, cravings hit me hard, and I found myself longing for two things: French fries (GI = 75) and spaghetti (GI = 55). After eating these, my blood sugar spiked to 180!

Luckily, I found a low-carb alternative that satisfied my craving: zucchini fries (GI = 20) and whole wheat pasta (GI = 40). My glucometer never went above 140.

There are plenty of low-carb options to curb cravings; you just need to look for them. You can check out my low-carb recipes for more alternatives for your cravings.

In case you are craving for white rice, here are some low-carb alternatives for you!

These low-carb gestational diabetes lunch ideas are not only quick and easy to prep but also perfect for enjoying at home or on the go, satisfying your cravings without spiking your blood sugar.

With a little creativity, you can whip up delicious meals that support your health and well-being.

If you still find your post-meal sugar sky-high after trying out these gestational diabetes lunch ideas, do grab my expertly-curated cheatsheet on 7 Hacks to Reduce Post-Meal Sugar Spikes by 40%!

Explore delicious gestational diabetes lunch ideas with confidence, knowing youโ€™re taking care of yourself and your baby.

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One Comment

  1. I found these lunch ideas incredibly helpful! The variety of recipes makes it easy to stick to a low-carb diet without getting bored. The practical tips and personal experiences shared by the author are very relatable and encouraging. Thank you for putting this together.

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