Cloudberry — glycemic index and gestational diabetes guide

Nutrition per 100g

Calories51 kcal
Carbohydrates11g
of which Sugars4g
Fiber7g
Protein2.2g
Fat0.8g
of which Saturated0.1g
Sodium1mg
Glycemic Index25

Fruits & VegetablesFruits

Cloudberry for Gestational Diabetes

low sugarhigh fibernutrient denseblood sugar friendly

Cloudberries are a rare, wild fruit native to arctic and alpine regions, prized for their unique tart and slightly sweet flavor profile. Often called 'bakeapples' or 'Nordic berries,' they have a golden-yellow hue and a soft, juicy texture when ripe. They are exceptionally rich in Vitamin C, containing several times the amount found in oranges, along with potent antioxidants like ellagic acid. Due to their rarity and delicate nature, they are considered a delicacy in many cultures. Their unique taste makes them a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory culinary applications.

At a glance

Pregnancy safety

Safe

Blood sugar impact

low

Carbs / 100 g

11g

Is Cloudberry safe with gestational diabetes?

Cloudberries are an outstanding fruit choice for managing gestational diabetes due to their very low sugar content and high fiber concentration. This combination ensures a minimal impact on blood glucose levels, making them a safe and nutritious option. Their impressive nutrient profile, particularly the high Vitamin C content, supports maternal health without contributing excess carbohydrates. Unlike many other fruits, cloudberries provide sweetness and flavor without the risk of a significant blood sugar spike. They can be easily incorporated into a balanced GD diet to add variety and essential micronutrients.

How does Cloudberry affect blood sugar during pregnancy?

With a very low glycemic index and glycemic load, cloudberries cause a slow and minimal rise in blood sugar. The significant amount of dietary fiber, around 7 grams per 100g, is crucial as it slows down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates into the bloodstream. This buffering effect helps prevent the sharp glucose peaks that need to be carefully managed in gestational diabetes. It is critical to consume them fresh or frozen without added sugars; cloudberry jams or syrups typically contain high amounts of added sugar, which would negate their benefits and dramatically increase their glycemic impact.

What is a safe portion of Cloudberry for gestational diabetes?

A generous portion, up to one full cup of fresh or frozen cloudberries, is generally safe and beneficial for a gestational diabetes meal plan. This serving size provides substantial fiber and nutrients with a very low carbohydrate load, making it a worry-free fruit choice. This amount can satisfy a craving for something sweet without the need for careful carbohydrate counting that other, higher-sugar fruits might require. Always monitor your individual response, but cloudberries are one of the most flexible fruits in terms of portion size for GD management.

How should I combine Cloudberry to manage blood sugar during pregnancy?

To further optimize blood sugar control, pair cloudberries with a source of protein and healthy fat. Combining them with plain Greek yogurt or cottage cheese creates a balanced snack that is both satisfying and stabilizing for glucose levels. Sprinkling a handful of cloudberries over a small portion of almonds or walnuts is another excellent strategy, as the fat and protein from the nuts will further slow carbohydrate absorption. You can also blend them into a smoothie with unsweetened protein powder and a source of fat like avocado or chia seeds for a complete, blood-sugar-friendly meal.

Last reviewed: August 31, 2026

Important Safety Information

Every pregnancy is different, and gestational diabetes is managed differently depending on your readings, your medication and how far along you are. The ratings and portions on this page are general information — not a diagnosis, a treatment plan or a medical device — and they cannot see your results.

Low blood sugar:
If you take insulin or diabetes medication, eating less carbohydrate than your team planned for can push your blood sugar too low. Treat a reading below 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L), or symptoms such as shaking, sweating, confusion or a racing heart, with fast-acting carbohydrate immediately and retest after 15 minutes. Never use this page as a reason to skip or shrink a meal you were told to eat.
Carbohydrate and ketones:
Cutting carbohydrate hard to force a number down is not safe in pregnancy — it can produce ketones. Published guidance sets a minimum of 175 g of carbohydrate per day in pregnancy. Readings that stay above target for several days need your care team, not a smaller portion.
Medication and insulin:
The portions here are generic and know nothing about your insulin doses, your metformin, or the steroids given to mature your baby's lungs — all of which change how a meal affects you. Never adjust a dose or a mealtime based on this page.
Food safety in pregnancy:
Blood sugar is not the only thing that makes a food suitable while you are pregnant. Some foods with excellent glycemic numbers still carry mercury, vitamin A, listeria or alcohol risks, and those are judged separately from the ratings shown here. Check your national pregnancy food-safety guidance before adding an unfamiliar food.
What these ratings can and cannot tell you:
Glycemic index values, impact ratings and maximum servings are population averages taken from published tables. Two people eating the same food can get very different readings, so your own meter is the only measurement that describes you. Nutrition figures are indicative per 100 g and vary with brand, ripeness and preparation.

Contact your care team the same day if: your readings stay above target for several days; you have a reading below 54 mg/dL (3.0 mmol/L) or needed someone else's help to treat a low; you test positive for ketones; or your baby is moving less than usual. Seek emergency care for confusion, fainting, repeated vomiting, or a low you cannot bring back up.

By using this guide, you agree to our Terms and Conditions.

Sources & Editorial Review

Content independently developed by Dalo Labs ApS, 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: August 2026

Track your meals with SugarCurve

Log this food, track your blood sugar, and get personalized guidance — all in the app.

Start Free Trial