It is quite common these days to occasionally have a small drink or two at home. But with diabetes this everyday indulgence can become a hindrance. The exact cause of type 2 diabetes is not clear since there are multiple risk factors associated with the condition, such as family history, age, lifestyle etc. In this blog, find everything about alcohol and diabetes.
Alcohol in itself isn’t a risk factor, but since it contains a lot of calories, it can lead to weight gain and other complications which are contributing factors for diabetes. To help lead a healthy lifestyle and keep diabetes in check it is best to avoid alcohol completely, but for those who are regular drinkers, moderation should be key. But eventually leaving the habit completely is advisable.
If you use insulin or some type of medication for diabetes, drinking alcohol can make your condition worse as it causes your blood sugar levels to spike or drop.
Note: In case you are not sure about the medication you use and its side effects, it is best to talk to your doctor about the same.
The chances of getting hypoglycemia increase for those who do drink on an empty stomach on a regular basis. This is because the liver works twice as hard as it tries to keep your blood sugar steady and also get rid of alcohol simultaneously. When this happens your blood sugar might drop and stay low until the liver has dealt with the alcohol. This is also the reason for carb cravings post-drinking.
In many cases, it is not uncommon for people to mistake having a hypoglycemia condition for being drunk. Therefore, make sure to carry your medical kit and ID with you at all times.
Another area to consider is that many diabetics are prone to diabetic neuropathy. This condition can worsen if you consume alcohol. In fact, alcohol is known to cause nerve damage even in people who are not diabetic.
When it comes to diabetes and alcohol, the only choices are to avoid drinking or limit your consumption.
Read More: Is Beer Good For Diabetics?
If you’re a diabetic or a pre-diabetic who enjoys an occasional drink, it is absolutely essential that you practise safe drinking habits all the time.
Also make sure to keep a check on your blood sugar levels at all times using a glucometer.
