What are the best alcoholic beverages for people with type 2 diabetes. How can diabetics safely consume alcohol without compromising their health. Which drinks have the lowest impact on blood sugar levels.

Understanding Alcohol Consumption and Diabetes

For individuals with type 2 diabetes, managing blood sugar levels is crucial. Alcohol consumption can significantly affect these levels, potentially leading to complications. However, moderate intake of certain alcoholic beverages may be safe and even offer some health benefits.

The 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans define moderate alcohol intake as:

• Up to 1 drink per day for women
• Up to 2 drinks per day for men

A standard drink is typically considered:

• 12 fluid ounces (360 mL) of regular beer (5% alcohol)
• 5 fluid ounces (150 mL) of wine (12% alcohol)
• 1.5 fluid ounces (45 mL) of 80 proof distilled spirits (40% alcohol)

Low-Carb Beer Options for Diabetics

Beer is often high in carbohydrates, which can cause blood sugar spikes. However, several low-carb options are available that may be more suitable for people with diabetes.

Miller Lite

Miller Lite is an American-style light lager that contains only 3.2 grams of carbohydrates in a standard 12-ounce (360-mL) serving. This is significantly lower than regular Miller beers, which contain around 12 grams per serving. Many consumers appreciate its aroma and flavor, making it a popular choice, especially during warmer months.

Coors Light

Another American-style light lager, Coors Light, provides 5 grams of carbs per 12-ounce (360-mL) bottle. Compared to standard Coors options like Coors Banquet, which contains almost 12 grams of carbs per bottle, Coors Light is a more diabetes-friendly option. It’s often described as refreshing and easy to drink.

Bud Light

Bud Light is a low-carb beer option with 4.6 grams of carbs per 12-ounce (360-mL) serving. This is approximately 50% fewer carbs than a regular Budweiser. While some consumers find it slightly sweet, others note that it may taste a bit bland compared to full-carb alternatives.

Busch

Busch beers, including their regular varieties, are generally low in carbs. A 12-ounce (360-mL) serving of regular Busch contains 7 grams of carbs, while Busch Ice and Busch Light provide 4.2 and 3.2 grams, respectively. These options are often enjoyed during hot summer days due to their light and refreshing nature.

Wine Choices for Diabetics

Moderate wine intake has been linked to various health benefits, including a reduced risk of heart disease in people with diabetes. Certain types of wine may be particularly beneficial due to their low carb content and potential health-promoting properties.

Red Wine

Red wine is often associated with the most health benefits for both diabetics and the general population. This is primarily due to its high antioxidant content. Studies have shown that drinking red wine may improve heart disease markers and reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications such as diabetic retinopathy.

A standard 5-ounce (150-mL) serving of red wine typically contains only 3.8 grams of carbs, making it a relatively low-carb option for those with diabetes.

White Wine

Contrary to popular belief, white wines can have a similar carb content to red wines. A standard 5-ounce (150-mL) glass of white wine also provides approximately 3.8 grams of carbs.

Champagne, particularly dry and brut varieties, may be an excellent choice for those looking to minimize carb intake. A 5-ounce (150-mL) serving of extra-dry champagne typically contains 1.7–2.5 grams of carbs, while brut and extra-brut champagne offer even less, with fewer than 1.7 grams and 0.8 grams respectively.

Spirits and Mixers for Diabetics

When it comes to hard liquor, most distilled spirits contain very few carbs. However, it’s crucial to be mindful of mixers, as these can significantly increase the carb and sugar content of a drink.

Vodka

Pure vodka contains zero carbs, making it a suitable option for people with diabetes. However, flavored vodkas may contain added sugars, so it’s essential to check the label. When choosing mixers for vodka, opt for low-carb options like soda water, diet tonic, or sugar-free flavored sparkling water.

Gin

Like vodka, gin is virtually carb-free. It’s often paired with tonic water, which is high in sugar. For a diabetes-friendly gin drink, consider using diet tonic water or soda water with a splash of lime juice.

Whiskey

Whiskey, whether it’s Scotch, bourbon, or rye, contains no carbs. It can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or with a splash of water. If you prefer a mixer, opt for diet soda or soda water.

The Impact of Alcohol on Blood Sugar Levels

Understanding how alcohol affects blood sugar levels is crucial for people with diabetes. Alcohol can cause both immediate and delayed effects on blood glucose.

Short-Term Effects

Initially, alcohol can cause a spike in blood sugar due to the carbohydrates in many alcoholic drinks. This is particularly true for beer, sweet wines, and cocktails made with sugary mixers.

Long-Term Effects

Over time, alcohol can lead to low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), especially if consumed on an empty stomach or in large quantities. This is because the liver prioritizes metabolizing alcohol over maintaining blood glucose levels.

How can diabetics minimize the risk of blood sugar fluctuations when drinking alcohol?

• Never drink on an empty stomach
• Choose low-carb drink options
• Monitor blood sugar levels before, during, and after drinking
• Stay hydrated by alternating alcoholic drinks with water
• Avoid drinking excessive amounts of alcohol

Potential Health Benefits of Moderate Alcohol Consumption for Diabetics

While excessive alcohol consumption is harmful, moderate intake may offer some health benefits for people with type 2 diabetes.

Improved Insulin Sensitivity

Some studies suggest that moderate alcohol consumption may improve insulin sensitivity, potentially helping to manage blood sugar levels more effectively.

Reduced Risk of Cardiovascular Disease

Moderate alcohol intake, particularly red wine, has been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease in people with diabetes. This may be due to the antioxidants present in red wine, such as resveratrol.

Lower Risk of Diabetic Complications

Research indicates that moderate red wine consumption may reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications, including diabetic retinopathy.

It’s important to note that these potential benefits are associated with moderate consumption only. Excessive alcohol intake can lead to numerous health problems and should be avoided.

Precautions and Considerations for Diabetics When Consuming Alcohol

While moderate alcohol consumption may be safe for many people with diabetes, there are several important factors to consider:

Interaction with Medications

Alcohol can interact with various diabetes medications, potentially leading to dangerously low blood sugar levels. It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider about the safety of alcohol consumption with your specific medication regimen.

Risk of Hypoglycemia

Alcohol can increase the risk of hypoglycemia, especially when consumed on an empty stomach or in large quantities. This risk may persist for up to 24 hours after drinking.

Calorie Content

Alcoholic beverages can be high in calories, which may interfere with weight management goals. This is particularly important for people with type 2 diabetes, as maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for blood sugar control.

Impaired Judgment

Alcohol can impair judgment and lead to poor food choices or forgetting to check blood sugar levels. It’s essential to remain vigilant about diabetes management even when consuming alcohol.

What steps should diabetics take to ensure safe alcohol consumption?

• Always eat a meal or snack when drinking alcohol
• Wear a medical alert bracelet indicating you have diabetes
• Educate friends or family members about the signs of hypoglycemia
• Check blood sugar levels before, during, and after drinking
• Never substitute alcohol for a meal or snack in your diabetes meal plan

Alcoholic Beverages to Avoid with Diabetes

While some alcoholic drinks can be consumed in moderation, others should be avoided or limited due to their high sugar and carb content.

Sweet Wines

Dessert wines, port, and other sweet wines are typically high in sugar and can cause rapid blood sugar spikes. These should be avoided or consumed very sparingly.

Flavored Spirits

Many flavored spirits, such as flavored vodkas or liqueurs, contain added sugars. Always check the label or opt for unflavored versions.

Sugary Cocktails

Cocktails made with fruit juices, syrups, or sweet mixers can contain a significant amount of sugar and carbs. Examples include margaritas, piña coladas, and daiquiris.

Regular Beer

While light beers can be a good option, regular beers are often high in carbs and should be limited or avoided.

What are some diabetes-friendly alternatives to these high-sugar drinks?

• Dry wines instead of sweet wines
• Spirits with sugar-free mixers
• Light beers or low-carb beers
• Cocktails made with fresh herbs, citrus, and sugar-free mixers

By making informed choices about alcohol consumption, people with type 2 diabetes can enjoy an occasional drink while maintaining good blood sugar control. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice on alcohol consumption and diabetes management.

10 of the Best Alcoholic Beverage for People with Diabetes

Drinking alcohol may affect your blood sugar levels, interact with diabetes medications, and contribute to complications. But drinking a moderate amount of certain types of alcohol, such as red wine, may be safer.

If you have diabetes, drinking alcohol may be safe for you as long as you choose the right types of drinks and consider alcohol’s effects on your blood sugar levels.

Diabetes causes lower-than-normal production or function of insulin — the hormone that helps control your blood sugar levels — so blood sugar management is important (1).

In addition, alcohol consumption may excessively raise or lower your blood sugar levels, depending on the drink and whether you have eaten recently (2).

Studies suggest that moderate intake of alcohol — especially red wine — is associated with health benefits in people with diabetes. But heavy drinking may interfere with some medications and increase the risk of diabetes-related complications (2, 3, 4, 5, 6).

The 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans define moderate alcohol intake as up to 1 drink per day for women and up to 2 drinks per day for men (7).

Here’s what one standard drink looks like (7):

• 12 fluid ounces (360 mL) of regular beer (5% alcohol)
• 5 fluid ounces (150 mL) of wine (12% alcohol)
• 1.5 fluid ounces (45 mL) of 80 proof distilled spirits (40% alcohol)

This article lists 10 types of alcohol that are most appropriate for people with diabetes, based on carb content, as well as a few drink types to avoid.

Generally speaking, low carb beers may have up to 37% fewer calories and 80% fewer carbs than regular beers (8, 9).

Here are some of the most popular low-carb beer options.

1. Miller Lite

Miller Lite is an American-style light lager made with barley malt and corn syrup, among other ingredients.

However, it contains only 3.2 grams of carbohydrates in a standard 12-ounce (360-mL) can or bottle, compared with 12 grams for the same serving in regular Miller beers (10).

According to online consumer reviews, people also think it has a great aroma and flavor. Thus, it may be a popular choice during hot summer months.

2. Coors Light

Coors is another of America’s favorite beer brands. It also has a low carb version suitable for people with diabetes.

Like Miller Lite, Coors Light is an American-style light lager. It provides 5 grams of carbs per 12-ounce (360-mL) bottle.

In contrast, standard options, such as Coors Banquet, provide almost 12 grams of carbs per bottle (10).

Reviews often describe this beer as refreshing, easy to drink, and not too filling due to its lower carb count.

3. Bud Lite

Bud Lite is another low carb beer that provides fewer than 5 grams of carbs per serving.

With 4.6 grams of carbs per 12-ounce (360-mL) serving, it provides roughly 50% fewer carbs than a regular Budweiser (11, 12).

Bud Lite is known for being slightly sweet. However, some consumer reviews say it tastes a bit bland.

4. Busch

Busch beers are good alternatives for people with diabetes due to the low carb content of most of the brand’s products — including their beers that are not branded as low carb.

For instance, a 12-ounce (360-mL) serving of regular Busch contains just 7 grams of carbs, while the same serving sizes of Busch Ice and Busch Light provide 4.2 and 3.2 grams, respectively (13, 14, 15).

People also seem to enjoy Busch beers on hot summer days.

Summary

Low carb beer is a better option than regular beer for people with diabetes who want to enjoy a cold brew now and then.

Moderate wine intake in people with diabetes is linked to a reduced risk of heart disease (3, 16).

Here are two types of wine with low carb counts.

5. Red wine

Among all types of wine, red wine is linked with the most health benefits — both for people with diabetes and for the general population — due to its high antioxidant content (17, 18, 19).

Studies show that drinking it may improve heart disease markers and reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications such as diabetic retinopathy, which damages blood vessels in the eyes (16, 20).

Plus, it provides only 3.8 grams of carbs in a standard 5-ounce (150-mL) serving (21).

6. White wine

White wines are often regarded as high sugar drinks. However, their carb content can be virtually the same as that of red wines.

For instance, a standard 5-ounce (150-mL) glass of white wine also provides 3.8 grams of carbs (22).

Among white wines, Champagne may be a particularly good choice if you’re trying to keep the carb content to a minimum. However, this depends on the style of Champagne — dry and brut varieties are low in sugar.

For example, a 5-ounce (150-mL) serving of extra-dry champagne provides 1.7–2.5 grams of carbs. Brut and extra-brut champagne in the same serving size offer fewer than 1.7 grams and fewer than 0.8 grams of carbs, respectively (23).

Summary

Aside from having a low carb content, red wine may lower the risk of diabetes-related complications if consumed in moderation. White wines, especially some types of Champagne, also generally have a low carb count.

Distilled spirits or hard liquors contain few to no carbs. However, you should be aware of the potential for hypoglycemia, also called low blood sugar levels, when consuming them.

This may happen because your liver can’t maintain basal blood sugar levels while also metabolizing alcohol. This may lead to excessively low blood sugar — and even more so if you drink on an empty stomach (2).

Here are some possible distilled spirit options.

7. Gin, rum, vodka, or whiskey

These liquors contain 0 grams of carbs per 1.5-ounce (45-mL) serving (24).

However, the carb content of your drink may vary depending on what you mix the liquor with.

Avoid mixing liquor with sugary juices or sugar-containing soda. If you do drink these with alcohol, your blood sugar may spike and then dip to dangerously low levels.

Summary

When consumed on their own, hard liquors provide 0 grams of carbs but may lead to very low blood sugar levels. Avoid drinking them on an empty stomach or mixing them with sugary drinks.

Make sure to go for low sugar options if you feel like having a cocktail.

Here are some of the best low carb cocktails.

8. Martini

You make a martini by mixing gin or vodka with dry vermouth in a 2-to-1 ratio and then garnishing it with an olive or a twist of lemon peel.

Since it doesn’t contain juices or other mixers, it contains 0.2 grams of total carbs in a 4-ounce (120-mL) drink. This makes it a good choice for people with diabetes — provided you drink it in moderation (25).

9. Vodka soda

As its name implies, you make a vodka soda by combining vodka and club soda.

As long as you use club soda or seltzer, your drink’s carb count will stay at 0 grams (26).

However, the carb content may rise significantly if you mix vodka with tonic water — which has 32 grams of carbs per 12-ounce can — or a sugar-containing soda (27).

If you’d rather have a flavored version, go for flavored sparkling water instead of flavored vodka, which may contain added syrups.

10. Bloody Mary

You make a Bloody Mary by mixing vodka and tomato juice with different sauces and spices, depending on the recipe, and typically serve it with a celery stick.

People often think of this as a “healthy” cocktail due to its vegetable content. It has a carb count of 7 grams from the tomato juice (28).

Tomato juice in a Bloody Mary provides lycopene, a pigment in tomatoes that has antioxidant and anti-diabetes properties and may protect people with diabetes from heart disease (29, 30, 31).

If you’re making a Bloody Mary, opt for a variety of tomato juice without added salt to lower its sodium content. A high sodium intake may lead to high blood pressure (32).

Summary

People with diabetes may also enjoy low sugar cocktails. Again, avoid those with added sugars in the form of fruit juice, syrup, or regular soda.

While there are some diabetes-friendly cocktails, such as the ones mentioned above, traditional cocktails are generally very high in added sugars. Therefore, try to avoid them unless you’re making them yourself.

For example, margaritas, piña coladas, and daiquiris may pack 35–44 grams of carbs per 7-ounce (225-mL) serving — and that is if you’re having just one serving (33, 34, 35).

Dessert wines, such as vermouth, port, and sherry, are also high in carbs. As the name of these drinks implies, people typically serve them after a meal (36).

The same goes for cream liqueurs such as Bailey’s Irish Cream and Kahlua. These provide around 13 grams of carbs, of which 12 grams are from sugar, for every 2 ounces (60 grams) of liqueur (37).

Lastly, aside from taking into account your drink’s carb content, try to follow these practices when drinking:

• Eat beforehand to avoid drinking on an empty stomach.
• Avoid drinking if your blood sugar is low.
• Monitor your blood sugar regularly before, during, and after drinking.

Summary

Avoid drinking traditional cocktails, dessert wines, and cream liqueurs, because they’re generally high in sugar.

The best types of alcohol for people with diabetes are those with a low sugar or carb content.

That includes light beers, red and white wines, distilled spirits, and low carb cocktails, as long as you avoid sugary juices or syrups.

On the other hand, traditional cocktails, dessert wines, and cream liqueurs tend to have higher sugar counts, which may spike your blood sugar levels.

Regardless of which type of alcoholic drink you choose, remember that it’s not just sugar that interferes with your blood sugar management. The alcohol itself does too. Thus, you should drink in moderation and follow the practices listed above.

Certain diabetes medications, such as insulin and sulfonylureas, can increase your risk of hypoglycemia, and alcohol further affects that risk. If you’re taking medication, talk with your doctor about whether and how you can safely drink alcohol.

Read this article in Spanish.

10 of the Best Alcoholic Beverage for People with Diabetes

Drinking alcohol may affect your blood sugar levels, interact with diabetes medications, and contribute to complications. But drinking a moderate amount of certain types of alcohol, such as red wine, may be safer.

If you have diabetes, drinking alcohol may be safe for you as long as you choose the right types of drinks and consider alcohol’s effects on your blood sugar levels.

Diabetes causes lower-than-normal production or function of insulin — the hormone that helps control your blood sugar levels — so blood sugar management is important (1).

In addition, alcohol consumption may excessively raise or lower your blood sugar levels, depending on the drink and whether you have eaten recently (2).

Studies suggest that moderate intake of alcohol — especially red wine — is associated with health benefits in people with diabetes. But heavy drinking may interfere with some medications and increase the risk of diabetes-related complications (2, 3, 4, 5, 6).

The 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans define moderate alcohol intake as up to 1 drink per day for women and up to 2 drinks per day for men (7).

Here’s what one standard drink looks like (7):

• 12 fluid ounces (360 mL) of regular beer (5% alcohol)
• 5 fluid ounces (150 mL) of wine (12% alcohol)
• 1.5 fluid ounces (45 mL) of 80 proof distilled spirits (40% alcohol)

This article lists 10 types of alcohol that are most appropriate for people with diabetes, based on carb content, as well as a few drink types to avoid.

Generally speaking, low carb beers may have up to 37% fewer calories and 80% fewer carbs than regular beers (8, 9).

Here are some of the most popular low-carb beer options.

1. Miller Lite

Miller Lite is an American-style light lager made with barley malt and corn syrup, among other ingredients.

However, it contains only 3.2 grams of carbohydrates in a standard 12-ounce (360-mL) can or bottle, compared with 12 grams for the same serving in regular Miller beers (10).

According to online consumer reviews, people also think it has a great aroma and flavor. Thus, it may be a popular choice during hot summer months.

2. Coors Light

Coors is another of America’s favorite beer brands. It also has a low carb version suitable for people with diabetes.

Like Miller Lite, Coors Light is an American-style light lager. It provides 5 grams of carbs per 12-ounce (360-mL) bottle.

In contrast, standard options, such as Coors Banquet, provide almost 12 grams of carbs per bottle (10).

Reviews often describe this beer as refreshing, easy to drink, and not too filling due to its lower carb count.

3. Bud Lite

Bud Lite is another low carb beer that provides fewer than 5 grams of carbs per serving.

With 4.6 grams of carbs per 12-ounce (360-mL) serving, it provides roughly 50% fewer carbs than a regular Budweiser (11, 12).

Bud Lite is known for being slightly sweet. However, some consumer reviews say it tastes a bit bland.

4. Busch

Busch beers are good alternatives for people with diabetes due to the low carb content of most of the brand’s products — including their beers that are not branded as low carb.

For instance, a 12-ounce (360-mL) serving of regular Busch contains just 7 grams of carbs, while the same serving sizes of Busch Ice and Busch Light provide 4.2 and 3.2 grams, respectively (13, 14, 15).

People also seem to enjoy Busch beers on hot summer days.

Summary

Low carb beer is a better option than regular beer for people with diabetes who want to enjoy a cold brew now and then.

Moderate wine intake in people with diabetes is linked to a reduced risk of heart disease (3, 16).

Here are two types of wine with low carb counts.

5. Red wine

Among all types of wine, red wine is linked with the most health benefits — both for people with diabetes and for the general population — due to its high antioxidant content (17, 18, 19).

Studies show that drinking it may improve heart disease markers and reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications such as diabetic retinopathy, which damages blood vessels in the eyes (16, 20).

Plus, it provides only 3.8 grams of carbs in a standard 5-ounce (150-mL) serving (21).

6. White wine

White wines are often regarded as high sugar drinks. However, their carb content can be virtually the same as that of red wines.

For instance, a standard 5-ounce (150-mL) glass of white wine also provides 3.8 grams of carbs (22).

Among white wines, Champagne may be a particularly good choice if you’re trying to keep the carb content to a minimum. However, this depends on the style of Champagne — dry and brut varieties are low in sugar.

For example, a 5-ounce (150-mL) serving of extra-dry champagne provides 1.7–2.5 grams of carbs. Brut and extra-brut champagne in the same serving size offer fewer than 1.7 grams and fewer than 0.8 grams of carbs, respectively (23).

Summary

Aside from having a low carb content, red wine may lower the risk of diabetes-related complications if consumed in moderation. White wines, especially some types of Champagne, also generally have a low carb count.

Distilled spirits or hard liquors contain few to no carbs. However, you should be aware of the potential for hypoglycemia, also called low blood sugar levels, when consuming them.

This may happen because your liver can’t maintain basal blood sugar levels while also metabolizing alcohol. This may lead to excessively low blood sugar — and even more so if you drink on an empty stomach (2).

Here are some possible distilled spirit options.

7. Gin, rum, vodka, or whiskey

These liquors contain 0 grams of carbs per 1.5-ounce (45-mL) serving (24).

However, the carb content of your drink may vary depending on what you mix the liquor with.

Avoid mixing liquor with sugary juices or sugar-containing soda. If you do drink these with alcohol, your blood sugar may spike and then dip to dangerously low levels.

Summary

When consumed on their own, hard liquors provide 0 grams of carbs but may lead to very low blood sugar levels. Avoid drinking them on an empty stomach or mixing them with sugary drinks.

Make sure to go for low sugar options if you feel like having a cocktail.

Here are some of the best low carb cocktails.

8. Martini

You make a martini by mixing gin or vodka with dry vermouth in a 2-to-1 ratio and then garnishing it with an olive or a twist of lemon peel.

Since it doesn’t contain juices or other mixers, it contains 0.2 grams of total carbs in a 4-ounce (120-mL) drink. This makes it a good choice for people with diabetes — provided you drink it in moderation (25).

9. Vodka soda

As its name implies, you make a vodka soda by combining vodka and club soda.

As long as you use club soda or seltzer, your drink’s carb count will stay at 0 grams (26).

However, the carb content may rise significantly if you mix vodka with tonic water — which has 32 grams of carbs per 12-ounce can — or a sugar-containing soda (27).

If you’d rather have a flavored version, go for flavored sparkling water instead of flavored vodka, which may contain added syrups.

10. Bloody Mary

You make a Bloody Mary by mixing vodka and tomato juice with different sauces and spices, depending on the recipe, and typically serve it with a celery stick.

People often think of this as a “healthy” cocktail due to its vegetable content. It has a carb count of 7 grams from the tomato juice (28).

Tomato juice in a Bloody Mary provides lycopene, a pigment in tomatoes that has antioxidant and anti-diabetes properties and may protect people with diabetes from heart disease (29, 30, 31).

If you’re making a Bloody Mary, opt for a variety of tomato juice without added salt to lower its sodium content. A high sodium intake may lead to high blood pressure (32).

Summary

People with diabetes may also enjoy low sugar cocktails. Again, avoid those with added sugars in the form of fruit juice, syrup, or regular soda.

While there are some diabetes-friendly cocktails, such as the ones mentioned above, traditional cocktails are generally very high in added sugars. Therefore, try to avoid them unless you’re making them yourself.

For example, margaritas, piña coladas, and daiquiris may pack 35–44 grams of carbs per 7-ounce (225-mL) serving — and that is if you’re having just one serving (33, 34, 35).

Dessert wines, such as vermouth, port, and sherry, are also high in carbs. As the name of these drinks implies, people typically serve them after a meal (36).

The same goes for cream liqueurs such as Bailey’s Irish Cream and Kahlua. These provide around 13 grams of carbs, of which 12 grams are from sugar, for every 2 ounces (60 grams) of liqueur (37).

Lastly, aside from taking into account your drink’s carb content, try to follow these practices when drinking:

• Eat beforehand to avoid drinking on an empty stomach.
• Avoid drinking if your blood sugar is low.
• Monitor your blood sugar regularly before, during, and after drinking.

Summary

Avoid drinking traditional cocktails, dessert wines, and cream liqueurs, because they’re generally high in sugar.

The best types of alcohol for people with diabetes are those with a low sugar or carb content.

That includes light beers, red and white wines, distilled spirits, and low carb cocktails, as long as you avoid sugary juices or syrups.

On the other hand, traditional cocktails, dessert wines, and cream liqueurs tend to have higher sugar counts, which may spike your blood sugar levels.

Regardless of which type of alcoholic drink you choose, remember that it’s not just sugar that interferes with your blood sugar management. The alcohol itself does too. Thus, you should drink in moderation and follow the practices listed above.

Certain diabetes medications, such as insulin and sulfonylureas, can increase your risk of hypoglycemia, and alcohol further affects that risk. If you’re taking medication, talk with your doctor about whether and how you can safely drink alcohol.

Read this article in Spanish.

The best and worst drinks for diabetic patients

Patients with diabetes have different nutritional needs, so there are no uniform dietary rules for such people. However, some tips can help people with diabetes optimize their diet to control blood glucose levels:

• eat a balanced diet and control the amount of carbohydrates consumed;
• to coordinate the level of carbohydrate intake each day;
• Pay attention to food labels for serving sizes and carbohydrate content.

However, not only food, but also various drinks can affect blood glucose levels in patients with diabetes. The following drinks are good choices for such individuals.

Water. Hydration affects the physical and mental health of a person. Signs of thirst can be mistaken for hunger or sugar cravings. If such a craving arises, then it is better to drink a glass of water first and see how the body reacts to this.

Flavored water. Some people prefer juices or drinks with sugar because they find the taste of water bland and uninteresting. Flavored water is suitable for such persons. Pure water can be flavored with citrus juices such as lime and lemon, or a small amount of cranberry juice. In turn, adding aloe vera pulp to water may even be beneficial for diabetic patients.

Herbal tea. This is another way to flavor water. By boiling the leaves of some plants in water, the drink can be made tasty and healthy. Licorice root, for example, gives a slightly sweet taste without raising blood glucose levels. Some studies have even shown that licorice extract can help lower blood glucose levels in diabetic patients.

Milk. This drink can be a good option for those with diabetes. Skimmed cow’s or soy milk, as well as rice milk contain vitamins and minerals, and therefore can benefit the body. However, it is important to choose unsweetened varieties of milk and consider its use in the diet.

Pure fruit juice in moderation. Pure fruit juices without added sugar in moderation can be part of a diabetic diet. However, such drinks should be taken into account in the diet and eaten with other foods to avoid a jump in blood glucose levels.

Coffee and tea in moderation. In moderation, caffeine from coffee and tea can provide an energy boost without spikes in blood glucose levels. However, you should avoid adding sugar and flavored cream to these drinks.

The following drinks are poor choices for diabetic patients.

Sugary carbonated and energy drinks. Carbonated drinks and other sugar-sweetened beverages can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and, in diabetic patients, cause a significant spike in blood glucose levels.

Fruit cocktails. Sugar-sweetened drinks, such as smoothies, contain high amounts of glucose or corn syrup. These ingredients can cause the same spikes in blood glucose levels as sugary soda.

Alcoholic beverages. In diabetes mellitus, alcoholic beverages should be consumed in moderation, as it can provoke a sharp jump or, conversely, a decrease in blood glucose levels, depending on the drink consumed.

Adapted from www.medicalnewstoday.com

Drinking alcohol in diabetes: “to drink or not to drink?”

It is well known that alcohol is toxic and harmful to both the individual and society as a whole. Alcohol abuse has long grown into a social problem, so talking about a reasonable attitude to alcohol is extremely important.

Each person independently decides whether to drink alcoholic beverages or make a choice in favor of a healthy lifestyle. It is very important that a person who drinks at least occasionally is healthy and does not have serious chronic diseases. In this case, drinking alcohol in reasonable quantities and on special occasions will not harm your health. It is quite another matter if a person already has chronic diseases of the cardiovascular system, gastrointestinal tract, liver and kidneys, disorders of various types of metabolism.

Especially alcohol can be dangerous for patients with DIABETES MELLITUS!!!People with elevated blood glucose levels should have full information about how alcohol affects the level of glycemia. Scientific studies have repeatedly devoted to the study of this issue, which have led to the conclusion that alcohol behaves unpredictably in relation to patients with diabetes mellitus, and the results of its use may depend on many different reasons.

Clear quantitative norms for alcohol intake have been developed, the excess of which can be harmful to health. Let’s get acquainted with them: “The use of alcoholic beverages is possible in an amount of not more than 1 conventional unit for women and 2 conventional units for men per day (but not daily) in the absence of pancreatitis, severe neuropathy, hypertriacylglycerolemia, alcohol dependence. One conventional unit corresponds to 15 g of ethanol, or approximately 40 g of spirits, or 140 g of wine, or 300 g of beer. Alcohol consumption increases the risk of hypoglycemia, including delayed, in patients receiving secretagogues and insulin. Training and constant monitoring of knowledge about the prevention of hypoglycemia is necessary.”

In principle, these recommendations have everything: how much alcohol to take, who should not drink, what is the danger of drinking alcohol for a diabetic. But since many questions still remain even after reading these recommendations, let’s dwell on this topic in more detail.

If you have noticed, the recommendations refer to a conventional unit (15 g of ethanol), which corresponds to a different amount of alcoholic beverages. The amount of ethanol determines the strength of the drink, so the higher the alcohol content, the less you can drink this drink: one unit corresponds to 40 g of strong drinks (vodka, cognac, whiskey, gin, etc.), 140 g of dry wine (red or white) , 300t g of beer. The calorie content of the drink is affected not only by the amount of ethanol (1 g of ethanol = 7 kcal), but also by the content of other components in it, mainly carbohydrates.

Liquor has the highest carbohydrate content, so the first thing to do is avoid sweet liquors, which can dramatically increase blood glucose levels. For the same reasons, patients with diabetes are not recommended to use liqueur, fortified and dessert wine. Absolutely forbidden are alcoholic cocktails based on sweet dessert wines with carbonated drinks and juices. From the use of such cocktails, an increase in glycemia can be unpredictable.

It is also advisable to give up strong alcoholic drinks (whiskey, rum, cognac, gin and rum), 100 grams of which have 220-250 kcal, although they practically do not contain quickly digestible carbohydrates. But the matter is not only in the calorie content of spirits, but in the rate of intake and the level of concentration in the blood. Do not drink alcoholic beverages, especially strong ones, on an empty stomach. It is harmful not only to patients with diabetes, but also to perfectly healthy people. It’s all about the mechanism of action of alcohol on the body.

We all know that glucose is the main source of energy in the body. When it is not supplied enough with food, glucose is formed in the liver, this process is called gluconeogenesis. Alcohol inhibits gluconeogenesis in the liver, which leads to a significant decrease in blood glucose. In many cultures, it is customary to drink an aperitif – small doses of alcohol before a meal. Alcohol inhibits gluconeogenesis, resulting in a decrease in the concentration of glucose in the blood, which leads to the excitation of the *hunger center* and the appearance of appetite. Inhibition of gluconeogenesis by alcohol can be hazardous to human health.

In this regard, the opinion is also erroneous that a tired or cold person should first of all be given a strong alcoholic drink (whiskey, rum, gin, vodka, etc.). After prolonged fasting or physical activity, when glycogen stores in the body are exhausted, the glucose concentration is at the lower limit of the physiological norm and gluconeogenesis is intensive. Alcohol intake at this time blocks gluconeogenesis, which can lead to a decrease in blood glucose concentration up to 30%, up to the development of hypoglycemia, if there is a violation in the regulation of carbohydrate metabolism. Now you understand how dangerous alcohol intake is for diabetic patients, especially those receiving insulin or drugs that stimulate the release of their own insulin. Therefore, if preference is still given to strong alcohol, then it should be consumed in limited quantities (40-80 g) and always with food containing complex carbohydrates (cereals, pasta, bread) and dietary fiber (vegetables, cereals).

It is well known that brewer’s yeast is used in nutrition for the treatment of various diseases. They contain a lot of fatty acids, protein, vitamins, so useful to our body. Taking into account this factor, many patients consume an unlimited amount of beer, not considering this drink as alcohol. Unlike other alcoholic beverages, 100 g of beer has the lowest calorie content. But after all, no one drinks this drink in such quantities, and after drinking 2-3 bottles of beer, we get an extra 400-600 kcal. Therefore, one must be very careful with beer, always take into account its calorie content in the diet. A patient with diabetes is allowed to drink about 300 ml of beer, but a maximum of 1-2 times a week and in the absence of contraindications that apply to all alcoholic beverages.

The use of alcoholic beverages is contraindicated in patients with diabetes mellitus, if they have alcohol dependence, diabetic neuropathy, diabetic nephropathy, hypertriacylglycerolemia, liver disease, pancreatitis, gout, hypoglycemia tendency.

Different types of wine contain different percentages of carbohydrates. With diabetes, it is permissible to drink wines, the concentration of sugar in which tends to zero. Actually, only dry wines meet this criterion. The color of the wine also matters. The quality of this drink is influenced by the grape variety, the place of its harvest and the year of harvest, as well as the production technology.

When making red grape wine, the juice ferments along with the pulp – pips, skins and other hard pomace. It is they who color the wine red and give it a tart and bright taste. In addition, antioxidants and tannin are supplied in large quantities from the pulp to such wine. The thicker the skin of the berries and the more seeds, the more antioxidants will be in the finished wine. The most active active antioxidants are resveratrol, quercetin and catechin. They neutralize harmful free radicals in the body that lead to aging, and can also cause certain types of cancer, cardiovascular disease, immune dysfunction, and degenerative diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s.

Harmful free radicals are mainly caused by exposure to bad environment, chemicals, radiation, pesticides and unhealthy lifestyles.

In the white process, the must removal pulp is removed from the must prior to fermentation. Since the juice is transparent, even if dark grapes are processed, the dyes from the skin do not have time to pass into the liquid. This means that wine made in this way from any grape will be white. White wine has much less antioxidants, in this regard, in case of diabetes, dry red wine is the best option.