Is It Safe to Drink Alcohol When You Have Type 2 Diabetes?

If you have Type 2 diabetes, you know that managing your blood sugar through diet and lifestyle is crucial. So where does alcohol fit in? 

Since November is Diabetes Awareness Month, Dr. Samuel I. Fink, located in Tarzana, California, takes this opportunity to answer that question and to provide clear guidance on how to approach alcohol safely when you have diabetes.

The risks of alcohol when you have diabetes

For most people with well-controlled diabetes, having an alcoholic beverage occasionally is safe. However, it’s essential to understand that alcohol with diabetes carries several risks. These are:

Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)

The most significant risk of drinking alcohol with diabetes is hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar. Your liver, which releases glucose into the bloodstream to maintain stable blood sugar levels, is also responsible for breaking down alcohol. 

The liver can't do both jobs effectively at the same time and prioritizes metabolizing alcohol. That can cause a sharp drop in your blood sugar, and the effect can be delayed, occurring hours after you’ve had a drink.

Interaction with medications

Alcohol can interfere with the effects of insulin and other oral diabetes medications, further increasing the risk of hypoglycemia.

The symptoms of low blood sugar — drowsiness, dizziness, and disorientation — can be mistaken for the effects of alcohol, making it difficult for you or others to recognize a medical emergency.

Empty calories and weight gain

Alcoholic beverages are often high in calories and carbohydrates but offer little nutritional value. These empty calories can contribute to weight gain and make it more challenging to manage your blood sugar levels.

How to drink safely with Type 2 diabetes

If you choose to drink, doing so safely requires planning and moderation. Dr. Fink recommends a personalized approach, but general guidelines from the American Diabetes Association can also help.

Know your limits

Moderation is key. That means no more than one drink per day for women and no more than two drinks per day for men. A standard drink is defined as:

• 12 ounces of beer
• 5 ounces of wine
• 1.5 ounces of distilled spirits (like vodka, rum, or gin)

Opt for drinks that are low in sugar and carbohydrates. Good choices include light beer, dry wines, and distilled spirits mixed with club soda or diet tonic. Avoid sugary cocktails, sweet wines, and regular beers, which can cause your blood sugar to spike.

Never drink on an empty stomach

Always have alcohol with a meal or snack that contains carbohydrates.

Monitor your blood sugar

Check your levels before you drink, while you drink, and for up to 24 hours afterward.

Stay hydrated

Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.

It’s also essential that you wear a bracelet or necklace that identifies you as having diabetes. 

For expert guidance on managing diabetes, book an appointment with Dr. Fink. Call the Tarzana office at 818-609-0700 or request your visit online today.