Diabetes and Drinking

Everybody likes an occasional drink and there is no harm in having a drink to your success and good work. However for diabetics, alcohol can be extremely dangerous. People with diabetes should always drink in moderation and keep in mind that they need to proper precautions when they drink.

The most important thing to do, before a diabetic can pick up a drink is to keep their diabetes well in control. It is important to talk to your healthcare professional or doctor about diabetic complications, medications and other health conditions before you can start drinking.

The ADA (American Diabetic Association) suggests the following guidelines for diabetics before they drink [in conjunction with the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture)]

• No more than two drinks per day for men and one drink daily for women.
• Adults over age the age of 65 should speak to their doctor about the appropriate limits for drinking alcohol.
• Alcohol is processed in the body the same way as fat and contains lots of calories.
• Alcohol lowers blood glucose levels and can cause hypoglycemia.

Thus before taking any alcoholic drink, it is important for diabetics to check their blood sugar level first. Also, they should only drink under the prescribed limits as having more than what is recommended can cause harmful results.

Some Facts about Alcohol for Diabetes

• Beer and wine contain carbohydrates that can raise blood sugar level.
• Alcohol is known to stimulate the appetite and make you feel hungry. It is important to remember that you do not overeat and increase your blood sugar level.
• Alcohol consumption can hinder the positive effects of oral diabetic medications and insulin.
• Alcohol can cause flushing, nausea, increased heart rate and slurred speech.
• Alcohol can adversely affect people with high triglyceride levels.
• Alcohol is also known to increase blood pressure that can be very harmful for a diabetic.
• 1.5 oz of 80-proof distilled spirits equals to 100 calories.
• 12 oz beer equals to 150 calories.
• 5 oz wine equals to 100 calories.

These facts indicate that if diabetics are not careful with their drinks, it can result in serious consequences. Along with high blood sugar level, it can decrease the action of diabetic medicines, causing further problems. Thus, before you drink, it is very important to keep these facts in mind

It is possible to stay safe when you consume alcohol by following these guidelines:

• Never have more than two alcoholic drinks a day.
• Drink alcohol only with food. Never on an empty stomach.
• Drink slowly.
• Avoid sugary drinks or mixed drinks and sweet wines.
• Dilute your drink with either water or diet soft colas.
• Always be aware of what is in your glass. Know what you are drinking and how many calories each drink has.
• Always check your blood sugar levels, before you go out to have a drink with friends.
• And lastly, always use the buddy system. Hypoglycemia and intoxication look nearly the same. Make sure you have a friend who knows your medical background and can recognize your symptoms if necessary.

By following the above mentioned tips, it is possible that you can control your drinks and your diabetes too. Being a diabetic does not mean that you cannot eat or drink anything to your liking. It simply means to eat and drink in a limit and keep a check on what you consume.