A patient with risk factors for GDM asks how to alter carbohydrate intake to blunt postprandial glucose spikes. Which practical strategy is most evidence-aligned?

Distribute carbohydrate intake across smaller, balanced meals and combine carbohydrates with protein and fiber to reduce rapid postprandial glucose excursions.

Eliminate all carbohydrates and consume only fat and protein which is universally safe and recommended for pregnant patients to prevent GDM.

Replace all carbohydrate foods with sugar-sweetened beverages to maintain caloric intake but simplify carbohydrate counting and therefore reduce glucose variability.

Consume most carbohydrates in a single late-night meal to increase fasting glucose and thereby normalize daytime glucose values.