Macadamia cheese — glycemic index and gestational diabetes guide

Allergen Information

Contains: Tree nuts (Macadamia)

May contain: Soy, Gluten

Nutrition per 100g

Calories450 kcal
Carbohydrates8.5g
of which Sugars2.5g
Fiber3.1g
Protein5.2g
Fat43.8g
of which Saturated6.5g
Sodium350mg
Glycemic Index20

Dairy & Dairy AlternativesPlant-Based Cheese

Macadamia cheese for Gestational Diabetes

Low carbHealthy fatsPortion control

Macadamia cheese is a rich, creamy, plant-based cheese alternative made primarily from soaked and blended macadamia nuts. It often includes nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, lemon juice for tang, and salt. Its texture is typically soft and spreadable, similar to a cream cheese or a soft goat cheese. Due to its high fat content from the nuts, it has a luxurious, buttery mouthfeel that makes it a popular choice in vegan and dairy-free cuisine. It serves as an excellent base for dips, spreads, and creamy sauces.

At a glance

Pregnancy safety

Safe

Blood sugar impact

low

Carbs / 100 g

8.5g

Is Macadamia cheese safe with gestational diabetes?

Macadamia cheese is an excellent choice for managing gestational diabetes due to its very low carbohydrate content and high concentration of healthy monounsaturated fats. Its minimal impact on blood glucose makes it a safe alternative to some dairy and other plant-based cheeses that may contain more starches or sugars. The healthy fats also contribute to satiety, which can help with overall appetite management. However, its high calorie density means that portion control is essential to maintain appropriate weight gain during pregnancy.

How does Macadamia cheese affect blood sugar during pregnancy?

The blood sugar impact of macadamia cheese is exceptionally low. The primary ingredients are nuts, which are composed mainly of fat and have very few carbohydrates, resulting in a low glycemic index and load. The fat and small amount of fiber present slow down the absorption of any glucose into the bloodstream, preventing blood sugar spikes. Cooking or heating macadamia cheese does not alter its carbohydrate content or glycemic properties. This makes it a reliable and stable option for meals and snacks without causing glycemic volatility.

What is a safe portion of Macadamia cheese for gestational diabetes?

A sensible portion of macadamia cheese is about one to two tablespoons. This amount is enough to provide rich flavor and satisfying creaminess without contributing excessive calories or fat. Think of it as a condiment or flavor enhancer rather than the main component of your dish. Using a measuring spoon can help ensure you stick to the recommended serving size. This mindful portioning allows you to enjoy its benefits while adhering to your overall dietary plan for a healthy pregnancy.

How should I combine Macadamia cheese to manage blood sugar during pregnancy?

To build a balanced, blood-sugar-friendly meal, pair macadamia cheese with high-fiber, non-starchy foods. Spread it on celery sticks, cucumber slices, or whole-grain, high-fiber crackers. Use it as a creamy sauce for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash, paired with a lean protein source like grilled chicken breast or fish. The fat in the macadamia cheese will further blunt the glycemic response of any carbohydrates consumed in the meal, promoting stable blood sugar levels for a longer period.

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