Diabetes, a disease where insulin is not properly produced or used by the body, affects millions of people worldwide. The cause is unknown, and a cure has not been found, but many diabetics try to “control” their disease with a healthy lifestyle.
With that said, can a diabetic drink alcohol?
According to some sources, alcohol is a toxin that should be avoided. It affects the way the liver works and can raise the body’s triglyceride levels. It is also pointed out that for a disease controlled by a diet of good nutrition, alcohol is simply a counterproductive choice. Some equate a diabetic consuming the sugar (in alcohol) to a recovering alcoholic having an occasional glass of wine – it should be avoided at all times and is not at all helpful to the goal.
However, others don’t agree. Some sources state a diabetic may drink alcohol in moderation if their diabetes is well-controlled. In fact, a recent study suggested that moderate consumption of alcohol actually improved blood sugar balance by reducing insulin resistance.
If a diabetic chooses to consume an alcoholic beverage, these are the guidelines they should follow:
Always drink alcohol with food. Since alcohol can make blood sugar levels plummet, it is best to enjoy a drink as part of a meal. Never drink on an empty stomach.
Remember that alcohol does have calories, and this should be taken into account when electing to have a drink. If you are struggling with your weight as part of diabetes, be sure to pay special attention to this.
It is suggested to stick with simple drinks (beer or wine) instead of mixed drinks, where unless you are mixing yourself, you will have no control over how much of what has gone into your cocktail. This can seriously affect the amount of sugar in the drink.
If you use insulin, keep your alcohol use to two drinks a day. (A drink is generally accepted as 12 ounces of beer, 1.5 ounces of 80 proof spirits, or 5 ounces of wine.) If you do not control your diabetes with insulin, stick to one drink only occasionally, especially if your triglyceride levels are high.
Intoxication and hypoglycemia often have the same symptoms. If you are having a hypo, someone might just assume you have had too much to drink. They may not know what steps to take to help you if they assume you are “just drunk” and are waiting for it to wear off. It’s best to drink with someone who knows your condition, for this precise reason!
Double check that any medication you may be on can be taken if you have consumed alcohol.
Diabetics should check with their doctor to see if he or she would agree that alcohol would be an acceptable choice. Alcohol affects certain diabetics in different ways, and a discussion about alcohol and your specific condition should be planned with your medical team.
