Allergen Information
Contains: Gluten, Wheat, Milk
May contain: Soy, Nuts, Sesame
Nutrition per 100g
Grains & Cereal › Bread and Baked Goods
Soft biscuits (unsweetened) for Gestational Diabetes
Unsweetened soft biscuits, often referred to as American-style biscuits, are a type of quick bread known for their tender, flaky texture. They are typically made from refined all-purpose flour, a high-fat component like butter or shortening, milk or buttermilk, and a chemical leavening agent such as baking powder. Despite being unsweetened, they are rich in simple carbohydrates and fats, making them very calorie-dense. Their primary role is savory, often served alongside meals like fried chicken, covered in gravy, or used for breakfast sandwiches. The flakiness is achieved by cutting cold fat into the flour, creating layers that steam apart during baking.
Gestational Diabetes Profile
GD Suitability
GI Impact
highGlycemic Index
70 · highIs Soft biscuits (unsweetened) safe with gestational diabetes?
Unsweetened soft biscuits are a high-risk food for managing gestational diabetes due to their composition of refined white flour. This type of flour is stripped of its bran and germ, resulting in very low fiber content and a high glycemic index. Consequently, the carbohydrates in biscuits are digested and absorbed very rapidly, leading to a sharp and significant increase in blood glucose levels. Their high fat and sodium content also make them a less-than-ideal choice for a healthy pregnancy diet, offering minimal nutritional benefits for the calories consumed.
How does Soft biscuits (unsweetened) affect blood sugar during pregnancy?
The primary concern with soft biscuits is their high glycemic index (GI), estimated around 70. The refined starch acts much like sugar once digested, causing a rapid influx of glucose into the bloodstream that can be difficult to manage. The baking process makes these starches highly available for quick digestion. Even though they are labeled 'unsweetened,' the carbohydrate load is substantial and poses a significant challenge to glucose control. Consistent consumption of such high-GI foods can make it harder to maintain stable blood sugar throughout the day.
What is a safe portion of Soft biscuits (unsweetened) for gestational diabetes?
Extreme portion control is non-negotiable with soft biscuits. A maximum serving should be no more than half of one small, standard-sized biscuit. This strict limit is necessary because even a small amount contains a significant load of fast-acting carbohydrates that can quickly destabilize blood sugar levels. Think of it as a small complement to a protein-rich meal rather than a main source of carbohydrates. Visually, this is about a two-to-three bite portion, which helps minimize the glycemic impact on your system.
How should I combine Soft biscuits (unsweetened) to manage blood sugar during pregnancy?
If you choose to eat a biscuit, pairing it correctly is absolutely critical to mitigate the blood sugar spike. Never eat a biscuit alone or with other carbohydrates like potatoes or jam. Instead, pair a very small portion with a substantial source of lean protein and healthy fats, such as two scrambled eggs or a piece of grilled chicken breast with avocado. The protein and fat will slow down gastric emptying and the subsequent absorption of glucose, blunting the sharp peak you would otherwise experience from the refined flour.
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
More in Bread and Baked Goods
Almond Flour Tortillas
Bread and Baked Goods
Bagels (soft, plain, no toppings)
Bread and Baked Goods
Banana Bread (Low Sugar)
Bread and Baked Goods
Blini (buckwheat pancake)
Bread and Baked Goods
Brioche (low sugar)
Bread and Baked Goods
Track your meals with SugarCurve
Log this food, track your blood sugar, and get personalized guidance — all in the app.