Alcohol and Diabetes | ADA

If you never or rarely drink alcohol, you’re not alone—in fact, people with diabetes drink about half as much as other adults. Why? Maybe their doctors cautioned them that drinking and diabetes don’t mix. Perhaps some have health conditions that are incompatible with alcohol. Or maybe they’re just concerned about all those calories—and carbs.

But is the occasional cocktail or glass of wine really so bad? After all, a daily drink does have its benefits. Still, diabetes can make happy hour pretty confusing. Here’s what you need to know about drinking and how to do it safely.

The Benefits 

You’ve probably heard that alcohol is good for your heart. But that’s an oversimplification. Take a look at the numbers and you’ll find that only moderate drinkers have less cardiovascular disease. Those on the opposite ends of the spectrum—people that drink heavily and those that don’t—have a greater risk.

But what exactly is moderate drinking? It’s one drink a day for women and up to two per day for men. However, that “drink” is a lot smaller than some people think: just five ounces of wine, a 12-ounce beer, or one and a half ounces of 80-proof spirits.

A daily cocktail or two may improve blood sugar (blood glucose) management and insulin sensitivity. If you have one or more drinks a day, you may find that your A1C is lower than during times you weren’t drinking. But if you don’t drink regularly, this doesn’t mean you should start. After all, other aspects of moderate drinkers’ lives may be behind the link.

Too much drinking, on the other hand (more than three drinks daily), can lead to higher blood sugar and A1C.

The Risks

Despite the potential health perks of drinking alcohol, there are some cautions as well. The biggest concern is hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). When drinking alcohol is combined with the medications most often used to treat diabetes—particularly insulin and sulfonylureas, low blood sugar can result. While a glass of wine with dinner probably isn’t a big deal, a mojito on an empty stomach at happy hour is.

Blame it on your liver. This organ stabilizes glucose levels by storing carbohydrates and releasing them into the bloodstream between meals and overnight. It’s also the body’s detoxification center, breaking down toxins like alcohol so the kidneys can easily flush them away.

Trouble is, it’s not great at multitasking. Your liver will choose to metabolize the alcohol over maintaining your blood sugar, which can lead to hypoglycemia. The liver often makes this choice when you drink without eating food—so consider snacking while you sip. 

Because many of the symptoms of hypoglycemia—such as slurred speech, drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty walking—are also symptoms of being drunk, it can be difficult to tell the two apart. And if you often have hypoglycemia unawareness, a condition in which you don’t recognize you’re going low, drinking becomes especially dicey. Timing may also be an issue, as hypoglycemia can strike hours after your last drink, especially if you’ve been exercising.  

Carbohydrate (and Calorie) Confusion

There’s another reason drinking can be challenging. Unlike protein, fat, or carbohydrate, alcohol doesn’t require insulin to provide energy to the body. Yet, many people assume that alcoholic drinks are loaded with carbs, not realizing that wine and spirits are practically carbohydrate free—with only a trace of carbohydrate in spirits and roughly four grams of carbs in a five-ounce glass of wine. The exception is sweet dessert wines, which pack 14 grams of carb in a tiny three-and-a-half-ounce glass.

High-carb drinks may sound like the smart option when you’re at risk for hypoglycemia, but it’s a bit more complicated than that.

Liquid sugars are quickly absorbed by the body, so those carbs won’t be much help in preventing or treating a low that may occur hours after you drink. Food, on the other hand, is digested gradually, so it provides better protection against lows.

With all the focus on carbs, it’s easy to forget that alcohol also has calories. Given that drinking can make you lose track of what you’re eating, calories (and pounds) can add up quickly. Being tipsy has another downside, making it easy to mix up your medications or to forget to take them entirely. 

Remember, drink sizes vary. That can make it especially difficult to get a grip on how many carbs and calories you’re consuming.

The Take-Away

Drinking is individualized and there’s no universal rule for how to do it safely when you live with diabetes. Talk to your doctor about your drinking habits and they can provide you with tips and tricks for how drink in a way that works for you.

Diabetes and Alcohol | Effects of Alcohol on Diabetes

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• Effects of Alcohol on Diabetes
• Diabetes and Alcohol Consumption Dos and Don’ts

If you have diabetes, drinking alcohol may cause your blood sugar to either rise or fall. Plus, alcohol has a lot of calories.

If you drink, do it occasionally and only when your diabetes and blood sugar level are well-controlled. If you are following a calorie-controlled meal plan, one drink of alcohol should be counted as two fat exchanges.  <!–td {border: 1px solid #ccc;}br {mso-data-placement:same-cell;}–> Learn more about the effects of alcohol on diabetes.

It is a good idea to check with your doctor to see if drinking alcohol is safe for you.

Here are some other ways that alcohol can affect diabetes:

• While moderate amounts of alcohol may cause blood sugar to rise, excess alcohol can actually decrease your blood sugar level — sometimes causing it to drop into dangerous levels, especially for people with type 1 diabetes.
• Beer and sweet wine contain carbohydrates and may raise blood sugar.
• Alcohol stimulates your appetite, which can cause you to overeat and may affect your blood sugar control.
• Alcoholic drinks often have a lot of calories, making it more difficult to lose excess weight.
• Alcohol may also affect your judgment or willpower, causing you to make poor food choices.
• Alcohol can interfere with the positive effects of oral diabetes medicines or insulin.
• Alcohol may increase triglyceride levels.
• Alcohol may increase blood pressure.
• Alcohol can cause flushing, nausea, increased heart rate, and slurred speech.

These may be confused with or mask the symptoms of low blood sugar.

People with diabetes who drink should follow these alcohol consumption guidelines:

• Do not drink more than two drinks of alcohol in a one-day period if you are a man, or one drink if you are a woman. (Example: one alcoholic drink = 5-ounce glass of wine, 1 1/2-ounce “shot” of liquor or 12-ounce beer).
• Drink alcohol only with food.
• Drink slowly.
• Avoid “sugary” mixed drinks, sweet wines, or cordials.
• Mix liquor with water, club soda, or diet soft drinks.
• Always wear a medical alert piece of jewelry that says you have diabetes.

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Content

• 1 Alcohol and type 2 diabetes: relationship and usage patterns
  • 1. 1 What is type 2 diabetes?
  • 1.2 How does alcohol affect blood sugar?
  • 1.3 The effect of alcohol on the risk of type 2 diabetes
  • 1.4 How much alcohol can be consumed in type 2 diabetes?
  • 1.5 Choosing the right alcohol for type 2 diabetes
  • 1.6 Alcohol and type 2 diabetes: health effects and usage patterns
    • 1.6.1 Which types of alcohol should be avoided in type 2 diabetes?
  • 1.7 How can I reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by drinking alcohol?
  • 1.8 Benefits of drinking alcohol in type 2 diabetes: facts and myths
  • 1.9 Risks of drinking alcohol in type 2 diabetes
  • 1.10 How to choose the right cocktail for type 2 diabetes?
  • 1.11 How to choose wine for type 2 diabetes?
  • 1.12 Choosing the Right Beer for Type 2 Diabetes
  • 1.13 Health Effects of Alcohol and Drugs in Type 2 Diabetes
    • 1.13.1 Can I drink alcohol with drugs in type 2 diabetes?
  • 1. 14 Contraindications for drinking alcohol in type 2 diabetes
  • 1.15 Rules for drinking alcohol in type 2 diabetes
  • 1.16 What should I do if I have drunk alcohol in violation of the rules?
  • 1.17 When should I seek medical help for alcohol use in type 2 diabetes?
  • 1.18 Related videos:
  • 1.19 Q&A:
    • • 1.19.0.1 What level of alcohol is safe for a person with type 2 diabetes?
      • 1.19.0.2 Can alcohol cause type 2 diabetes?
      • 1.19.0.3 Can you eat sweets with alcohol if you have type 2 diabetes?
      • 1.19.0.4 Which beverages are considered safe to drink in type 2 diabetes?
      • 1.19.0.5 Can low-alcohol cocktails raise blood sugar levels?
      • 1.19.0.6 Can you drink alcohol if you are taking medication for type 2 diabetes?
      • 1.19.0.7 How does alcohol affect blood sugar levels?
      • 1.19.0.8 Can kidney problems be related to alcohol use and type 2 diabetes?

How does alcohol affect type 2 diabetes? Learn about the causes of an increase in blood glucose levels after drinking alcohol and how to properly manage your health with this disease.

Type 2 diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases in the world. This disease is caused when the body does not produce enough insulin or cannot use it effectively. As a result, blood sugar levels rise, which can lead to serious complications such as damage to the heart, blood vessels, nerves, eyes, and kidneys.

At the same time, many people drink alcohol in moderation as part of their lifestyle. However, alcohol can affect blood sugar levels and have different health effects for people with diabetes.

It is important to note that people with type 2 diabetes need to be especially careful about what they eat and drink to control their blood sugar levels. The doctor can give advice on how to manage your blood sugar levels and how to look after your overall health.

What is type 2 diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease in which the level of sugar (glucose) in the blood is elevated for a long time. Unlike type 1 diabetes, which usually occurs in childhood and is associated with autoimmune disorders in the body, type 2 diabetes most often develops in adults due to poor lifestyle and hormonal imbalance.

It is important to note that type 2 diabetes is not curable, but with the right treatment and lifestyle changes, quality of life can be greatly improved and possible complications can be prevented.

How does alcohol affect blood sugar levels?

Alcoholic effects on the human body can cause a decrease in blood glucose levels. This effect is achieved by inhibiting the processes of glycolysis (glucose breakdown).

However, drinking alcohol can also affect liver function. The liver plays a key role in regulating blood glucose levels by performing processes such as glycogenolysis (breakdown of glycogen), gluconeogenesis (formation of glucose from non-glucose sources), and glycogenesis (synthesis of glycogen). Alcohol’s effect on the liver can reduce its ability to regulate blood glucose levels and cause hypoglycemia.

; For people with type 2 diabetes, drinking alcohol can be especially dangerous. Alcohol-induced hypoglycemia may mask the symptoms of hyperglycemia, exacerbating the patient’s condition. In addition, alcohol is high in calories and sugar, which can lead to high blood glucose levels.

Proper drinking for people with type 2 diabetes should be based on moderation and caution. It is important to choose drinks that are low in sugar and take into account the amount of carbohydrates in them. Also, it is recommended to drink alcohol only in combination with food and not to exceed the dosage – up to 1 drink per day for women and up to 2 drinks per day for men.

The effect of alcohol on the risk of developing type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a serious disease that is associated with insulin malfunction and high blood sugar. It is known that alcohol can affect blood glucose levels and therefore the risk of developing diabetes.

However, some studies show that drinking in moderation (1-2 glasses of wine per day) can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes by 30%. This may be because alcohol increases insulin sensitivity moderately, helping the body use sugar more efficiently.

In any case, if you are at risk of developing diabetes or have already been diagnosed with diabetes, you should discuss alcohol use with your doctor and follow the recommendations for controlling your blood sugar.

How much alcohol can be consumed in type 2 diabetes?

If you have type 2 diabetes, drinking alcohol can have a negative impact on your health. However, if you follow your doctor’s recommendations properly and control your blood glucose levels, drinking alcohol in moderation can be safe.

Doctors recommend limiting alcohol consumption for diabetics to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men. One serving of alcohol corresponds to:

• 355 ml of beer
• 148 ml of wine
• 44 ml of strong alcohol

It is important to remember that strong drinks and sweet cocktails can contain a lot of sugar and calories. Therefore, if you have diabetes, you should avoid these drinks.

Also be aware that alcohol can lower blood glucose levels, which can lead to hypoglycemia. Therefore, before drinking alcohol, it is necessary to check the glucose level and remember to eat regularly to avoid hypoglycemia.

Choosing the right alcohol for type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a disease that requires special attention to diet. At the same time, many people ask themselves the question: is it possible to drink alcohol and what type of alcohol is better to choose?

First of all, if you have diabetes, it is better to give up sugary, strong and carbonated drinks. It is also not recommended to consume sweet wines and liquors. Instead, opt for dry wines that contain less sugar, and hard liquors like whiskey or tequila.

It is also important to drink alcohol wisely and in small doses. The recommended dose for men is no more than 2 standard servings per day, for women, no more than 1 standard serving per day.

1. 1. Several recommended types of alcohol for people with type 2 diabetes:
      • Dry red or white wine;
      • Whiskey, tequila or other spirits;
      • Light beer, but not more than one bottle;
      • Diluted alcoholic cocktails with little sugar.

Remember that drinking alcohol can raise your blood sugar, so it’s important to check your blood glucose and be careful with alcohol, especially if you have other health problems.

Alcohol and Type 2 Diabetes: Health Effects and Rules for Drinking

Which types of alcohol should be avoided in type 2 diabetes?

In type 2 diabetes, alcohol consumption should be limited. However, not all types of alcohol have the same effect on blood glucose levels.

Avoid alcoholic beverages containing large amounts of sugar, such as sweet cocktails, liqueurs, dessert wines and beer. These drinks can raise blood glucose levels and lead to poorer diabetes control.

Alcohol with a high alcohol content, such as hard liquor, should also be limited. This is because drinking large amounts of alcohol can lead to low blood glucose levels, which is potentially dangerous for people with diabetes.

The best choice for people with diabetes are drinks with a low alcohol content and no added sugar, such as dry wines or light beers. It is advisable to consume no more than one standard drink per day for men and no more than one drink per day for women.

How can I reduce my risk of developing type 2 diabetes with alcohol?

Alcohol can significantly increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, especially if consumed in large quantities. However, if you are not ready to give up alcohol completely, there are some rules that can help reduce the risk.

1. 1. • Do not drink alcohol on an empty stomach. Drinking alcohol on an empty stomach can lead to a rapid rise in blood sugar levels. Therefore, it is better to drink alcohol during meals.
      • Limit the amount of alcohol you drink. Drinking too much alcohol can lead to high blood sugar levels, which in turn can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Therefore, it is important to limit the amount of alcohol you drink and not exceed the dosage recommended by experts.
      • Prefer low sugar alcohol. Some types of alcohol contain high amounts of sugar, which can negatively affect blood sugar levels. Therefore, it is recommended to choose alcoholic beverages with a low sugar content.
      • Control your blood sugar levels. If you already have type 2 diabetes, it is important to constantly monitor your blood sugar levels, especially after drinking alcohol. This will help to notice any changes in a timely manner and prevent possible complications.

It is important to remember that drinking alcohol can have a negative impact on health, so it is best to reduce or avoid it completely.

The Benefits of Drinking Alcohol in Type 2 Diabetes: Facts and Myths

Myth: Drinking alcohol is completely forbidden in type 2 diabetes.

Fact: Moderate drinking can be good for people with type 2 diabetes. Some research suggests that alcohol may increase insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, which often occurs in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Myth: Any alcohol can be used in type 2 diabetes.

Fact: Not all types of alcohol are equally healthy or safe for people with type 2 diabetes. Beer and sugary smoothies can be high in carbohydrates and sugar, which can raise blood sugar levels. It is best to choose wine or spirits (vodka, tequila, whiskey) that do not contain added sugars and have fewer carbohydrates in their composition.

1. 1. • Small doses: It is best to drink alcohol in small doses, for example, 1-2 standard drinks (150 ml wine – 1, 45 ml 1 strong alcohol) at a time.
      • Drink alcohol only with meals: Drinking alcohol on an empty stomach can cause blood sugar levels to drop sharply and cause hypoglycemia. Therefore, it is recommended to drink alcohol only with food.
      • Avoid alcohol if you suspect hypoglycemia: If you experience symptoms of hypoglycemia (dizziness, sweating, weakness), do not drink alcohol and take steps to raise your blood sugar levels.

Thus, alcohol can be quite safe if consumed in moderation and following the rules for drinking. But still, before you start drinking alcohol with type 2 diabetes, you should consult with your doctor.

Risks of drinking alcohol in type 2 diabetes

Drinking alcohol in type 2 diabetes can lead to a number of health risks. First, alcohol can cause a change in blood glucose levels, which can lead to a severe decrease or increase in sugar levels. This can lead to hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia and even death in severe cases.

Second, alcohol increases the action of insulin, which can lead to kidney, liver, and heart problems in people with reduced insulin sensitivity.

In addition, alcohol can cause problems with the nervous system, which can lead to problems with coordination, vision and sensation, and increase the risk of falls and injury.

All this means that people with type 2 diabetes need to be careful when drinking alcohol and monitor their blood glucose levels during and after drinking. They should also avoid drinking alcohol on an empty stomach or before bedtime, as this can lead to high blood glucose levels.

How to choose the right cocktail for type 2 diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease that requires constant monitoring of blood glucose levels. At the same time, we should not forget about the use of alcohol, as this can also adversely affect health.

If you plan to order a cocktail in a bar or restaurant, you should pay attention to its composition. Avoid smoothies that contain too much sugar or sugary drinks such as lemonade or syrups.

The best choice for a diabetic is a cocktail based on a non-alcoholic drink such as tonic combined with fresh fruit or berries. You can also try cocktails based on vodka or tequila with the addition of fresh citrus fruits, ice and mineral water.

However, do not forget that alcohol consumption in type 2 diabetes should be moderate. For women, no more than 1 drink per day is recommended, and for men, no more than 2 drinks per day. It’s also important to remember that drinking alcohol can lower your blood glucose levels, so it’s a good idea to monitor your sugar levels before and after drinking alcohol.

Don’t forget that choosing the right cocktail is not only tasty, but also healthy. Don’t be afraid to ask the bartender or a friend who ordered the cocktail for advice on what’s best for you.

How to choose wine for type 2 diabetes?

In type 2 diabetes, the choice of alcoholic beverages must be conscious and limited. Wine is one of the most attractive drinks due to its many varieties and tastes. However, it is generally a drink with a high sugar content, which can pose certain risks when consumed.

When choosing wine for type 2 diabetes, it is important to pay attention to its glycemic index (GI). The higher the GI, the faster the sugar contained in the wine will be absorbed by the body and cause an increase in blood glucose levels. Therefore, it is better to choose dry wines with low sugar levels and low GI. It should be borne in mind that red wines in general have a lower GI than whites.

It is important to remember that in type 2 diabetes, any alcoholic beverage should not be consumed more than 1-2 standard drinks per day, while blood glucose levels should be monitored and alcohol should not be taken on an empty stomach. Also, before drinking wine, it’s best to check with your doctor to make sure that drinking wine will have little effect on your blood glucose levels.

1. 1. • Choose dry wines with low sugar levels and low GI;
      • Keep in mind that red wines generally have a lower GI than whites;
      • Never exceed 1-2 standard glasses of wine per day;
      • Monitor blood glucose and do not drink alcohol on an empty stomach;
      • Consult your doctor before drinking wine.

Choosing the Right Beer for Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a common condition that requires patients to pay close attention to their diet. Many people suffering from this disease are wondering if it is possible to drink beer? And if so, which beer should you choose?

Beer contains carbohydrates which should be taken into account when planning a diet for people with diabetes. Therefore, when choosing a beer, you need to pay attention to its sugar content, calories and carbohydrates.

When choosing a beer for diabetes, it is recommended to pay attention to non-alcoholic beer and light beer with a low content of carbohydrates and calories. Some manufacturers offer special beers for sugar patients.

1. 1. • Choose a beer with a low alcohol content. Alcohol abuse can increase blood glucose levels.
      • Pay attention to the sugar content of your beer. It is better to choose beer with low or no sugar content.
      • Consider the amount of beer consumed. It is important to control the amount of beer consumed and make sure that carbohydrates from beer do not exceed the daily allowance.

Remember that beer is an alcoholic beverage that can raise blood glucose levels. Therefore, when drinking beer, it is necessary to observe the measure and control the level of glucose in the blood. Before drinking beer, be sure to discuss this issue with your doctor.

Health effects of alcohol and drugs in type 2 diabetes

Alcohol and drugs can affect health in type 2 diabetes, so it is important to know what you can and cannot consume.

Is it okay to drink alcohol with medications for type 2 diabetes?

Drinking alcohol in type 2 diabetes can lead to changes in blood glucose levels, so the dose and type of alcohol consumed must be considered. You should also be careful when drinking alcoholic beverages along with medications, as they can affect the effectiveness of treatment.

Some medicines taken for type 2 diabetes can cause hypoglycemia, a decrease in blood glucose levels, which can cause serious health problems. Drinking alcohol in this case can increase the effect of the medicine and lead to a dangerous drop in blood glucose levels. Therefore, before using alcohol with drugs, be sure to consult your doctor.

In general, alcohol consumption in type 2 diabetes should be limited and controlled. For example, it is recommended not to drink alcohol on an empty stomach and in deficient doses. You should also consider the amount of alcohol consumed and units containing carbohydrates in drinks.

Contraindications to alcohol consumption in type 2 diabetes mellitus

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease associated with impaired glucose metabolism in the body. Manifestations of the disease include elevated blood sugar levels, insulin problems, and pancreatic dysfunction. Drinking alcohol, just like for people without diabetes, can have a negative impact on health.

People with type 2 diabetes should pay special attention to their blood sugar levels and understand how various factors can affect them. Drinking alcohol can lead to a severe drop in blood sugar, which can lead to hypoglycemia, a dangerous condition that can lead to convulsions, unconsciousness, and even death.

High blood sugar can also be a problem with alcohol. Alcohol can be high in sugar and can also increase blood sugar through other mechanisms. In addition, people with type 2 diabetes often take blood sugar medications, which can interact with alcohol and increase the risk of unwanted side effects.

Thus, while alcohol is not prohibited in type 2 diabetes, people with type 2 diabetes should be especially careful to monitor their blood sugar levels. Do not drink alcohol on an empty stomach or in large quantities, and do not take alcohol with certain medications without consulting your doctor. In general, people with type 2 diabetes are more likely to have negative consequences from drinking than other people, so you need to be especially vigilant and careful.

Rules for drinking alcohol in type 2 diabetes

Drinking alcohol in type 2 diabetes can be dangerous and unhealthy, but if you follow some rules, you can reduce the risks to your body:

1. 1. • on the amount of alcohol consumed. For people with type 2 diabetes, it is recommended that alcohol be limited to no more than one standard drink per day for women and no more than two for men.
      • Avoid drinking alcohol on an empty stomach. Before drinking, it is recommended to have a snack or a full meal to avoid a sharp drop in blood glucose levels.
      • Avoid sugary drinks and cocktails. Cocktails with sweet syrups and juices can significantly increase blood sugar levels. It is recommended to prefer dry wines, spirits without sugar or to dilute cocktails with soft drinks.
      • Monitor your glucose levels. Before drinking alcohol and for several hours after it, it is recommended to control the level of glucose in the blood in order to avoid a sharp decrease or increase.
      • Do not forget about carbohydrates. If you choose to drink alcohol, it is recommended that you reduce your carbohydrate intake for the day to avoid spikes in blood sugar levels.

Following these guidelines will help prevent negative health effects from drinking alcohol in type 2 diabetes.

What should I do if I have drunk alcohol in violation of the rules?

If you have been drinking heavily and affecting your glycemic control, check your blood glucose immediately. If it is too high or too low, follow your doctor’s instructions for adjusting your insulin or other medications.

Avoid snacks that can spike your blood sugar, such as sugary drinks and confectionery. It is better to consume protein snacks such as nuts, cheese, eggs and meat dishes.

If you notice that you have hypoglycemia, we advise you to immediately stop drinking alcohol and take the necessary measures to continue the correct treatment.

Be aware that drinking alcohol can reduce your insulin sensitivity and make it harder to control your diabetes. Therefore, moderate alcohol consumption is recommended, but without violating the doctor’s recommendations, with the right choice of snacks and in the absence of side effects.

When should I seek medical help for alcohol use in type 2 diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease that can seriously affect a person’s health, especially when drinking alcohol. If you have type 2 diabetes, it is extremely important to know when to seek medical attention.

If you experience unusual symptoms after drinking alcohol, such as severe hunger, loss of consciousness, convulsions, then you should take a friend and go to the doctor immediately. Do not delay and do not think that everything will pass by itself.

Also, if you have problems with blood glucose levels, be sure to consult your doctor before drinking alcohol to learn how to properly control your glucose levels.

1. 1. • If you have low blood glucose, drinking alcohol can cause hypoglycemia;
      • If you have high blood glucose, alcohol can make it worse and increase your risk of complications.

Also, be aware that drinking alcohol can make insulin or other drugs you take to control your glucose less effective.

In general, if you drink alcohol, be careful and control your glucose levels. If you feel any unusual symptoms, see your doctor right away. And remember that the most important thing is your health.

Related videos:

Q&A:

What level of alcohol is safe for a person with type 2 diabetes?

For people with type 2 diabetes, safe drinking levels are limited to one or two standard drinks per day for men and one standard drink for women.

Can alcohol cause type 2 diabetes?

No, alcohol does not cause type 2 diabetes. However, excessive and long-term alcohol consumption does not have a beneficial effect on health and may increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, especially in people who already have a predisposition to the disease.

Can you eat sweets with alcohol if you have type 2 diabetes?

It is not recommended to consume sweets with alcohol for people with type 2 diabetes, as this can lead to a sharp increase in blood glucose levels. It’s better to just choose a drink with less sugar.

What drinks are considered safe for type 2 diabetics?

Drinks that do not contain added sugar, such as water, soda water, mineral water, some soft drinks, and alcohol consumed in moderation as recommended by a physician, are considered safe for type 2 diabetics.

Can low alcohol drinks raise blood sugar levels?

Some low-alcohol cocktails may contain high amounts of sugar, which can cause blood glucose levels to spike. Therefore, it is better to contact the bartender for drinks with a lower sugar content or make cocktails yourself using sugar substitutes.

Can you drink alcohol if you are taking medication for type 2 diabetes?

Always consult your doctor before drinking alcohol. Some type 2 diabetes medications can interact with alcohol and cause a number of side effects, including spikes in blood sugar levels.

How does alcohol affect blood sugar levels?

Alcohol can cause blood sugar fluctuations, usually causing a general drop in blood sugar levels. However, if alcohol is consumed in large quantities, it can lead to an increase in blood sugar levels. Blood sugar levels can also be disturbed by drinking low-carb alcohol such as vodka and gin.

Can kidney problems be related to alcohol use and type 2 diabetes?

Yes, heavy and/or long-term drinking can cause kidney problems in people with type 2 diabetes. This is because alcohol can damage the kidney cells and lead to the development of diabetic nephropathy.

Yes, but not much: Alcohol and type 1 diabetes

« MiniMed Care Blog | March 15, 2022 |

Alcohol is a part of life and a social construct in many societies. A glass of wine is a great way to unwind and de-stress after a long day. Socializing with friends over dinner with a glass of beer – what could be better? But can you drink alcohol if you have type 1 diabetes?

We can reassure you: even with type 1 diabetes, you can drink a glass of wine or a glass of whiskey. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when heading out to your local bar on a Friday night.

Alcohol, liver and blood glucose

Approximately 80% of alcohol is metabolized in the liver ¹ . This means that when we drink, the liver is working hard to filter alcohol from the bloodstream and break it down. This is important for understanding the effect of alcohol on blood glucose levels.

Why the liver? The liver performs two important functions related to blood glucose levels. The first of these is the production of glucose from proteins or fats (gluconeogenesis, i.e., the formation of glucose entering the bloodstream). Gluconeogenesis contributes to the stabilization of glucose levels when the body has not received enough food ¹ . The second function is to convert some of the excess glucose in the blood and from food (the simplest form of sugar needed for energy) into glycogen. Glycogen is a more complex form of glucose that the liver can quickly convert back to glucose. These processes are carried out in the body around the clock, due to which the level of glucose in the blood is maintained.

When alcohol is broken down by the liver, biochemicals, “waste products” or by-products are released. These by-products interfere with the natural process of gluconeogenesis. For example, approximately 6 units of alcohol (~48 g or 60 ml of pure alcohol) can impair gluconeogenesis by approximately 45% ¹ . In addition, alcohol interferes with the conversion of glycogen to glucose that occurs in the liver. Ultimately, each of these processes leads to a decrease in blood glucose levels ¹ .

Alcohol, blood glucose management and type 1 diabetes

What does the above mean for a person with type 1 diabetes?

When we drink alcohol, our blood glucose levels can drop quickly. For a person with type 1 diabetes, this means an increased risk of developing hypoglycemia (a condition in which blood glucose levels become too low). However, this does not always happen. For example, a glass of wine or a glass of beer with a meal will not greatly affect blood glucose levels, as a moderate amount of food will enter the body along with alcohol ¹ . The more alcohol a person drinks, the higher the risk of low blood glucose levels becomes ² .

People with type 1 diabetes should also be aware that the time between the last meal and the first drink is important. An article reviewing various studies states that the risk of hypoglycemia is increased by drinking 1 liter (or about 2 pints) of beer a few hours after a meal ¹ . When the party is in full swing and you drink more and more alcohol, the risk of developing hypoglycemia increases ¹ . Complicating the situation is the fact that hypoglycemia can occur not only during alcohol consumption, but also up to 12 hours after it ^{1, 2} . The same article reports that low blood glucose can be registered the next day even after a meal ¹ .

A person with type 1 diabetes can develop not only hypoglycemia but also hyperglycemia (high blood glucose)1 due to alcohol exposure. This happens when we drink alcohol with additives and cocktails that are high in sugar.

Living with type 1 diabetes and drinking safely

The American Diabetes Association 2019 guidelines state that people with type 1 diabetes should consume alcohol in moderation ³ . Moderate is no more than one drink per day for women and no more than two for men. Therefore, we recommend that you take your usual hypoglycemic medication with you so that you can quickly raise your blood glucose levels if necessary. Knowing this information and having the necessary medicines at hand, you will not be at a loss if you feel bad during the party.

A few tips on how to drink alcohol safely: ²

• Check your blood glucose levels before, during and after drinking alcohol.
• Have a hearty supper before leaving home; dinner should include carbohydrates.
• Pack snacks such as dried fruit, dark chocolate, or whole grain peanut butter crackers to quickly raise your blood glucose levels in the event of hypoglycemia.
• Stay hydrated and alternate alcohol with water.
• Don’t forget that dancing is a physical activity that can further lower your blood glucose levels.
• Check your blood glucose before bed and eat something if it is low.
• Try to choose sugar-free supplements to prevent high blood glucose levels (hyperglycemia).
• After waking up, have breakfast, even if you don’t feel like eating.
• Before the party, try to find out about the types of alcoholic drinks that will be served and decide what you will drink based on the amount of alcohol and how it is served.

Bonus Tip

• Use Technology: Consider using Temporary Basal Rate (TBR) or Temporary Glucose Target on your insulin pump or continuous glucose monitoring system. This is especially helpful if your glucose levels often drop after drinking alcohol. Ask your diabetes care providers about how technology can benefit you.

Conclusion

Once you learn to live with type 1 diabetes, you won’t feel like life is passing you by. The desire to drink a glass should not be a problem. Talk to your diabetes doctors about how you can occasionally indulge in alcohol without harming your health. And drink this glass of wine!

1. White N.D. Alcohol use in young adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus. Am J Lifestyle Med. 2017;11(6):433-435.
2. Diabetes.org.uk. Type 1 diabetes and drinking. https://www.diabetes.org.uk/. 2021 Available at: https://www.diabetes.org.uk/guide-to-diabetes/young-adults/type-1-drinking.