Feijoa (Pineapple Guava) — glycemic index and gestational diabetes guide

Nutrition per 100g

Calories61 kcal
Carbohydrates15.2g
of which Sugars8.2g
Fiber6.4g
Protein0.7g
Fat0.4g
of which Saturated0.1g
Sodium3mg
Glycemic Index39

Fruits & VegetablesFruits

Feijoa (Pineapple Guava) for Gestational Diabetes

low gihigh fiberportion controlnutrient dense

Feijoa, also known as pineapple guava, is an aromatic fruit native to South America with a complex flavor profile reminiscent of pineapple, guava, and strawberry. Its green, egg-shaped exterior protects a soft, juicy, and slightly gritty pulp, a texture caused by stone cells similar to those in pears. This fruit is celebrated not only for its unique taste but also for its impressive nutritional benefits, including being an excellent source of Vitamin C and dietary fiber. The aromatic qualities make it a popular choice for both eating fresh and incorporating into various culinary creations. Its balance of sweetness and tartness adds a refreshing dimension to any dish.

At a glance

Pregnancy safety

Safe

Blood sugar impact

low

Carbs / 100 g

15.2g

Is Feijoa (Pineapple Guava) safe with gestational diabetes?

Feijoa is a highly suitable fruit for a gestational diabetes diet due to its favorable nutritional profile. It boasts a low glycemic index and is rich in dietary fiber, which are crucial factors for maintaining stable blood glucose levels. Furthermore, its high vitamin C content supports overall maternal health and immune function during pregnancy. The combination of fiber and nutrients makes it a smart choice for satisfying sweet cravings without causing significant blood sugar fluctuations. Incorporating feijoa can add variety and essential nutrients to your meal plan, supporting a healthy pregnancy.

How does Feijoa (Pineapple Guava) affect blood sugar during pregnancy?

The blood sugar impact of feijoa is minimal, classifying it as a low-glycemic-impact food. Its official glycemic index is approximately 39, which is well within the low range. The substantial fiber content, around 6.4 grams per 100g, plays a critical role by slowing the digestion and absorption of the fruit's natural sugars into the bloodstream. This slow release prevents the sharp spikes in blood glucose that are a primary concern in managing gestational diabetes. Therefore, when consumed in appropriate portions, feijoa helps maintain glycemic control effectively.

What is a safe portion of Feijoa (Pineapple Guava) for gestational diabetes?

Proper portion control is key to including feijoa safely in a gestational diabetes meal plan. A recommended serving size is about two to three small feijoas, which corresponds to approximately 150 grams. This amount provides the nutritional benefits of fiber and vitamins without delivering an excessive amount of carbohydrates. It is best to consume the fruit whole rather than as juice, as juicing removes the beneficial fiber and concentrates the sugars. Always measure your portion to ensure you stay within your carbohydrate targets for the meal or snack.

How should I combine Feijoa (Pineapple Guava) to manage blood sugar during pregnancy?

To further optimize blood sugar control, it is wise to pair feijoa with a source of protein or healthy fats. This strategy helps to blunt any potential glucose response and enhances satiety. Excellent pairing options include a small handful of almonds or walnuts, a serving of plain Greek yogurt, or a few slices of cheese. Combining feijoa with these foods creates a more balanced snack that provides sustained energy. Avoid consuming it as part of a high-carbohydrate meal or with other sugary items to prevent an excessive carbohydrate load in one sitting.

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.

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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

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