Type 2 Diabetes and Alcohol

You are correct in thinking that alcohol may cause complications with type 2 diabetes. You should not drink alcohol if you are a diabetic. However, many diabetics drink alcohol anyway, so in the interest of being a realist we will discuss how those with a drinking problem can continue to drink alcohol with the fewest negative consequences on their type 2 diabetes.

Alcohol can both lower and raise blood sugar levels, depending on what it is combined with, how much of it you drink, and when you drink it. So let’s take a look at some guidelines to better help you manage the combination of your drinking problem and your diabetes:

1. Talk to your doctor before drinking alcohol. In addition to diabetic consequences, there may be interactions between the treatments he has you on and the alcoholic beverage. Remember that alcohol is not just a calorie dense food; it is also a drug.

2. Never drink alcohol when your blood glucose levels are not in their target ranges. Alcohol can unpredictably vault you more dangerously to an extreme.

3. Do not drink alcohol when your stomach is empty. If you must have a drink in this situation, eat a complex carbohydrate snack first.

4. As with all sugar beverages, you should not drink any alcoholic beverage that has high fructose corn syrup or sugar content. Drinks that are commonly high in sugar are hard liquors, wines, and wine coolers.

5. Do not drink alone. You should always have someone sober around who is aware of your blood sugar management needs when you drink. It may be difficult for you to sense your blood sugar levels when you are intoxicated. In an emergency this person may need to assist you or to at least alert emergency personnel to your condition.

6. Even if you’re not diabetic you should drink moderately or less. If you are diabetic, then it is crucial that you avoid getting drunk. The recommendation is that average size males drink no more than two drinks per day. Average size females should have no more than one drink per day. Keep in mind that the size of a drink varies by the density of alcohol in the drink.

7. Of course it is best of all to consider giving up alcohol. This is particularly true if you have more medical conditions than just diabetes, which is typically the case. But, if you cannot give up alcohol please follow the above steps to keep yourself in the best condition possible. And, be sure to consult your physician about it.

By: Jen Miller

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