Allergen Information
Contains: Milk
Nutrition per 100g
Dairy & Dairy Alternatives › Milk and Yogurt
Skyr (Icelandic Yogurt) for Gestational Diabetes
Skyr is a traditional Icelandic cultured dairy product, consumed like yogurt but technically classified as a soft cheese. It is renowned for its incredibly thick, creamy texture, which is achieved by straining away the whey. This process concentrates the protein, making skyr exceptionally high in protein while remaining low in fat and carbohydrates. Its flavor is mildly tangy and less sour than Greek yogurt, making it a versatile ingredient. Skyr is also rich in probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health.
At a glance
Pregnancy safety
SafeBlood sugar impact
lowCarbs / 100 g
4.2gIs Skyr (Icelandic Yogurt) safe with gestational diabetes?
Skyr is an outstanding choice for managing gestational diabetes due to its impressive nutritional profile. Its high protein and low carbohydrate content make it highly effective at promoting stable blood glucose levels. The protein works to slow down the absorption of sugars into the bloodstream, preventing the sharp spikes that are critical to avoid. Furthermore, the natural tang and creaminess can satisfy cravings without resorting to high-sugar options. Always choose the plain, unflavored versions to ensure no hidden sugars are present.
How does Skyr (Icelandic Yogurt) affect blood sugar during pregnancy?
Skyr has a very low glycemic impact, making it a safe and beneficial food for a GD-friendly diet. The fermentation process used to create skyr produces lactic acid, which, combined with the high protein content, results in a very low glycemic index. This means it releases glucose into the bloodstream very slowly and steadily. However, it is crucial to avoid flavored or fruit-on-the-bottom varieties, as they contain significant amounts of added sugar that will cause a rapid blood sugar spike. Stick to plain skyr for optimal glucose control.
What is a safe portion of Skyr (Icelandic Yogurt) for gestational diabetes?
A suitable portion of skyr is around one standard single-serving container, which is typically about 150-170 grams. This amount delivers a substantial dose of protein (often 15-20 grams) with minimal carbohydrates, making it an ideal choice for a filling breakfast or a powerful afternoon snack. This portion size helps maintain satiety and muscle mass without overloading your system with carbohydrates. It provides a strong nutritional anchor for a meal while leaving room to add healthy fats and fiber through toppings.
How should I combine Skyr (Icelandic Yogurt) to manage blood sugar during pregnancy?
To create a perfectly balanced and blood-sugar-friendly meal or snack, pair skyr with sources of fiber and healthy fats. Mixing in a tablespoon of chia seeds or ground flaxseed adds fiber, which further slows digestion and glucose absorption. A small handful of almonds or walnuts contributes healthy fats and a satisfying crunch. For a touch of sweetness, add a small portion of low-glycemic berries like raspberries or blueberries, which also provide antioxidants and fiber. This combination enhances satiety and ensures a minimal impact on blood sugar.
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
More in Milk and Yogurt
Track your meals with SugarCurve
Log this food, track your blood sugar, and get personalized guidance — all in the app.
Start Free Trial →