Healthy dietary choices are certainly crucial during pregnancy.
Now, a study from the School of Public Health at Southeast University in Nanjing, China, has revealed insights about protein consumption during pregnancy and gestational diabetes (GDM). This case-control study of 947 pregnant women found that replacing carbohydrates with proteins led to a 45% reduction in GDM risk, with important distinctions between protein sources:
- Beneficial: Eggs, dairy products, and fish were linked to lower GDM risk
- Harmful: Unprocessed red meat significantly increased GDM risk
For expectant mothers, this research suggests focusing on high-quality proteins from eggs, dairy, and fish while limiting red-meat consumption. While more research is needed to establish definitive causal relationships, this study offers valuable guidance for our patients’ nutrition during pregnancy.
If you are hungry for more evidence-based information in your pregnancy, sign up for my free webinar: 7 Pregnancy Myths Debunked – and get the information you need to have a healthy pregnancy and a thriving baby.
And if you are a care-provider looking for evidence-based resources for your fertility patients, please get in touch with us at support@myhealthypregnancyplan.com.
In health,
Dr Jocelyn Land-Murphy, ND
Terra Life
Disclaimer: The information and content provided is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not professional medical advice, nor is it intended to be a substitute therefore. Please consult the Disclaimer and Terms of Use for full details.
References:
Wang, R. et al. (2025). Association between protein intake and sources in mid-pregnancy and the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus. BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth.