The Fresh Test

Rethinking the Glucose Test: A Natural Approach to GDM Screening

April 21, 20252 min read

Rethinking the Glucose Test: A Natural Approach to GDM Screening

If you’re between 24 and 28 weeks pregnant, your provider will likely recommend a glucose screening test. This test checks for gestational diabetes (GDM), a condition where blood sugar levels rise during pregnancy and may impact your or your baby’s health if left unmanaged.

The traditional glucose test involves drinking a sweet solution—usually Glucola—followed by a blood draw. But if you’ve read the label (or struggled to stomach it), you might be wondering:

Is there a cleaner, more natural way to do this?

The answer is yes—and it starts with understanding your options.

The Problem with Glucola

Glucola is the most commonly used glucose drink in the U.S., but it often contains ingredients many health-conscious mamas would avoid:

  • Artificial dyes like Red #40 and Yellow #6

  • Preservatives such as BHA

  • Synthetic flavorings and additives

  • GMO-derived glucose

  • Known digestive side effects like nausea, bloating, or headaches

These ingredients don’t affect every woman the same way—but if you’re someone who pays close attention to what you put in your body (especially during pregnancy), the ingredient list might give you pause.

The Fresh Test: A Cleaner Way to Screen for GDM

The Fresh Test is a natural, OB approved glucose beverage formulated with just three clean ingredients:

  • Non-GMO glucose (from tapioca)

  • Crystallized lemon

  • Organic peppermint

It’s free of artificial dyes, preservatives, and synthetic flavors—but still meets all clinical requirements for accurate GDM screening.

And the best part? Most moms say it tastes way better.

Click here to order The Fresh Test

Use Code: ELEVATE for 10% Off

Pros and Cons of GDM Screening

Gestational Diabetes Screening is important—but that doesn’t mean you can’t weigh the benefits and limitations:

Pros:

  • Detects GDM early to reduce risks like preeclampsia, macrosomia, and birth complications

  • Allows for early lifestyle and dietary adjustments

  • Can help prevent long-term type 2 diabetes risk

  • Covered by most insurance plans

Cons:

  • Traditional Glucola can cause nausea or blood sugar crashes

  • One-size-fits-all testing may not reflect individual metabolic differences

  • False positives may lead to unnecessary interventions

  • Diagnosis can be stressful or emotionally challenging

How to Use The Fresh Test

  1. Mix one 50g powder packet with 10 oz. of water

  2. Chill (for better taste!)

  3. Drink the solution within 5 minutes, as instructed by your provider

  4. Proceed with your lab draw as scheduled

Note: Always confirm with your OB or midwife that The Fresh Test is accepted in your care setting.

Final Thoughts: Informed, Empowered, and Natural

Gestational diabetes screening is a valuable tool—but how you approach it matters, too. Choosing The Fresh Test allows you to honor your body, your baby, and your values—all while keeping your care effective.

Ready to test the natural way?

Order The Fresh Test here

Use Code: ELEVATE to save 10%

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