Nutrition per 100g
Fruits & Vegetables › Starchy Veggies and Roots
Arrowroot for Gestational Diabetes
Arrowroot is a starch extracted from the rootstock of several tropical plants, most notably Maranta arundinacea. It is a fine, white powder that is prized in cooking as a gluten-free thickener for sauces, gravies, and desserts. Unlike cornstarch, it creates a perfectly clear, glossy gel and has a neutral flavor that won't alter the taste of your dish. It is also known for being very easily digestible, making it a popular ingredient in foods for infants and those with sensitive digestive systems. Its thickening power is about twice that of wheat flour.
Gestational Diabetes Profile
GD Suitability
GI Impact
highGlycemic Index
85 · highIs Arrowroot safe with gestational diabetes?
Arrowroot powder is a refined starch with a very high glycemic index, making it a food to use with extreme caution for gestational diabetes management. While it is natural and gluten-free, its carbohydrate structure is simple and rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream. This can lead to a sharp and significant increase in blood glucose levels if not managed carefully. It should not be considered a staple carbohydrate source but rather a minor culinary ingredient used in very small quantities within an otherwise balanced meal.
How does Arrowroot affect blood sugar during pregnancy?
With a glycemic index (GI) of approximately 85, arrowroot is considered a high-GI food, similar to glucose itself. This means it is digested and converted to sugar very quickly, posing a significant risk for blood sugar spikes. Unlike the whole arrowroot vegetable, the powdered starch has most of its fiber removed, which is what would normally slow down digestion. The cooking process, where it is heated in liquid, makes the starch even more readily available for absorption, amplifying its impact on blood sugar levels.
What is a safe portion of Arrowroot for gestational diabetes?
Strict portion control is critical. Limit use to no more than one tablespoon of arrowroot powder for an entire multi-serving recipe, such as a family-sized stew or sauce. When this small amount is distributed across several portions, the carbohydrate load per serving becomes minimal. This dilution is key to safely incorporating it without causing a significant blood sugar event. Always prioritize using it to enhance meals built around lean proteins and non-starchy vegetables rather than carbohydrate-centric dishes.
How should I combine Arrowroot to manage blood sugar during pregnancy?
Due to its high glycemic impact, arrowroot must be used within a meal rich in protein, healthy fats, and fiber to blunt its effect. For instance, using a small amount to thicken a chicken and vegetable stew is a safer strategy than using it in a sugary fruit pie filling. The protein from the chicken and fiber from the vegetables will slow down the overall digestion of the meal, mitigating the rapid glucose release from the arrowroot. Avoid using it in dishes that are already high in carbohydrates or sugar.
Last reviewed: July 3, 2026
Talk to Your Healthcare Provider
Ratings and portion guidance on this page are for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Every pregnancy is different — always confirm your blood sugar targets and meal plan with your OB-GYN, midwife, or certified diabetes educator. By using this guide, you agree to our Terms and Conditions.
Content independently developed by SugarCurve Editorial Team, informed by the American Diabetes Association's Standards of Care in Diabetes, ACOG's gestational diabetes guidelines, and the IADPSG consensus criteria. Not endorsed by or affiliated with any referenced organization. · Last reviewed: July 2026
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