Alcohol Guide

Alcohol and diabetes ....The safety in moderation

Alcohol is absorbed very quickly into the blood without being broken down (metabolized) within five minutes of having a drink, Thirty to 90 minutes after having a drink; the alcohol in the bloodstream is at its highest level.

If you cant give up altogether:

It is recommended that people with diabetes drink alcohol in moderation. Limit alcohol to one to two standard drinks per day and have atleast two alcohol free days per week.
People who are on tablets or insulin for their diabetes should be aware that alcohol could react with their medication. They should discuss this with their doctor or educator.

Tips for tipplers

If you have diabetes and take insulin or oral diabetes pills, you have a risk of developing low blood sugar levels when you drink alcohol. Hence, diabetics should never drink on an empty stomach. Plan to have your drink with a meal or after eating a snack.

Do not mix alcohol and exercise, This increases the risk of hypoglycemia and fainting.

Do not indulge in heavy boozing, heavy drinking apart from harming your liver can also mask the symptoms of diabetic emergencies. Some of the signs of drinking too much, such as confusion or slurred speech, are similar to the effects of a low blood sugar reaction or ketoacidosis
This masking of symptoms may be dangerous.

Select drinks that are lower in alcohol and sugar. Choose mixers that are sugar free, such as diet soft drinks, club soda, seltzer, or water. This will help keep your blood sugar levels in your target range.

Who should say no?

People with diabetes who have nerve damage, eye problems, high blood pressure or have high levels of triglycerides in their blood should not drink alcohol.