After being diagnosed with diabetes, sufferers have to learn to make some tough sacrifices in life. You have to watch the carbs you eat, you have to be careful of your sugar consumption, you have to be sure to check your blood sugar and make sure you’re not eating too much fatty food. Uncontrolled diabetes can worsen over time and can lead to many fatal health conditions and, if you’re a man, it can cause erectile dysfunction. But, if you have diabetes is it ok to indulge and have the occasional glass of wine or a beer while you’re watching the game with friends? First, let’s see how alcohol affects people with diabetes.
People with diabetes that drink run a high risk of having hypoglycemia or low blood sugar. Hypoglycemia can cause a diabetic coma if blood sugar levels get too low. Hypoglycemia occurs after alcohol consumption because the liver decreases its ability to produce glucose or sugar so it can instead cleanse the liver of alcohol. Diabetics are at an even higher risk for hypoglycemia if they consume alcohol on an empty stomach. Plus, because it takes up to two hours for one ounce of alcohol to metabolize in the body, the risk for hypoglycemia continues for long after your drink is finished. Also, the feelings of euphoria associated with alcohol can make diabetics less conscious and ignore dipping blood sugar levels.
Diabetics can also be at risk if they consume alcohol in conjunction with heavy exercise, like during a game of softball or if they drink while engaging in vigorous dancing at a nightclub. Exercise helps to lower blood sugar levels and after a workout the body has to replace the energy used up by the muscles. To replenish the body’s energy, it clears glucose from the blood and adds it to the muscles, placing diabetics at a high risk for hypoglycemia.
So can diabetics have a drink? Yes, male diabetics can have up to two drinks in a day and females can have one as long as they consult with a physician beforehand and do so under the following conditions:
• If you choose to drink alcohol, limit the amount and have it with food.
• 1 alcoholic drink equals a 12 oz beer, 5 oz glass of wine, or 1 ½ oz distilled spirits (vodka, whiskey, gin, etc.).
• Drink only if your blood glucose levels are under control.
• Wear an I.D. that shows you have diabetes.
• Take your time and consume your drink slowly.
• Drink a no-calorie beverage like water while you drink to help quench your thirst.
• Use calorie-free drink mixers such as diet soda, club soda, diet tonic water or water.
• Avoid overly-sweet and sugary drinks mixed with soda or syrups.
• Enjoy your beverage with a healthy snack or meal.
• Do not drive or plan to drive for several hours after you drink alcohol.
