Allergen Information
May contain: Sulphites
Nutrition per 100g
Fruits & Vegetables › Dried Fruits
Dried Apricots for Gestational Diabetes
Dried apricots are fresh apricots that have been dehydrated, concentrating their nutrients, flavor, and sugar content. This process results in a chewy, sweet, and slightly tart fruit that is rich in fiber, potassium, and vitamins A and E. There are two main types: sulphured, which are bright orange and treated with sulfur dioxide to preserve color, and unsulphured, which are darker brown and have a more natural, caramel-like flavor. They are an energy-dense snack, meaning they pack a lot of calories and sugar into a small volume, making portion control essential.
Gestational Diabetes Profile
GD Suitability
GI Impact
mediumGlycemic Index
32 · lowIs Dried Apricots safe with gestational diabetes?
Dried apricots are generally not recommended for managing gestational diabetes due to their highly concentrated sugar content. The dehydration process removes water, leaving behind a dense source of carbohydrates and natural sugars that can significantly impact blood glucose levels. While they do contain beneficial fiber and nutrients, the risk of causing hyperglycemia is very high, even with a small portion. If consumed, it must be done with extreme caution and adherence to very strict portion limits, making them a high-risk choice for blood sugar stability.
How does Dried Apricots affect blood sugar during pregnancy?
Although dried apricots have a low Glycemic Index (GI) of around 32, their Glycemic Load (GL) is high, which is a more critical measure for gestational diabetes. The low GI is due to their fiber content, but the sheer amount of sugar and carbohydrates packed into a small serving means they can deliver a large glucose load to the bloodstream quickly. This can easily overwhelm the body's insulin response and lead to a significant blood sugar spike. Cooking or stewing them, especially with added sweeteners, will further increase their glycemic impact and should be avoided.
What is a safe portion of Dried Apricots for gestational diabetes?
A maximum safe portion is extremely small, consisting of no more than two to three whole dried apricots. This small quantity, which weighs around 30 grams, is a strict limit to prevent a significant carbohydrate load. The reason for this severe restriction is the high density of sugar created during the drying process. Adhering to this very small serving size is crucial for preventing a sharp and potentially dangerous spike in your blood sugar, which is the primary goal of dietary management in gestational diabetes.
How should I combine Dried Apricots to manage blood sugar during pregnancy?
If you choose to eat dried apricots, it is absolutely essential to pair them with a robust source of protein and healthy fats to mitigate the blood sugar response. This strategy helps to slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. For example, consume two chopped dried apricots with a handful of almonds, walnuts, or a serving of full-fat, plain Greek yogurt. Never eat them as a standalone snack, especially on an empty stomach, as this will almost certainly lead to a rapid and pronounced rise in blood glucose levels.
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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