Diabetes and alcohol - think twice before drinking!

If you have diabetes, drinking alcohol may not be good for you. Alcohol can make diabetes complications worse. First, alcohol affects the liver's ability to control your blood sugar levels. Not only that, alcohol also interferes with some diabetes medications. If you drink alcohol even occasionally, tell your doctor about it. Your doctor can then tell you what medications are right for you.

Here's what's important to know:

1. Alcohol doesn't work well with diabetes medication.

Depending on how much you drink, alcohol can either raise or lower your blood glucose levels. Some diabetes medications (such as sulfonylureas and meglitinides) stimulate the pancreas to produce more insulin . Because both these medications and alcohol lower blood sugar levels , taking them together can cause hypoglycemia , or 'insulin shock.' This is a dangerous condition. You need to get treatment right away.

2. Alcohol causes damage to your liver.

The main job of the liver is to store glycogen. Glycogen is a form of glucose that is stored in the liver. When you don't eat, your body gets the glucose it needs from this glycogen. When you drink alcohol, your liver has to work harder to remove the alcohol from your blood. Then it can't do its job of regulating blood sugar levels properly. That's why you should never drink alcohol when your blood glucose levels are low.

3. Never drink alcohol on an empty stomach

Food slows down the absorption of alcohol, so if you drink alcohol, make sure to eat a meal or snack that contains carbohydrates.

4. Always check your blood sugar level before drinking alcohol.

Alcohol reduces your liver's ability to produce glucose, so it's important to know your blood glucose level before drinking alcohol.

5. Alcohol can cause hypoglycemia.

Your blood glucose level can drop within a few minutes to 12 hours, or even half an hour, after drinking alcohol. Even if you are unconscious after drinking alcohol, check your blood glucose level to see if it is at the right level. If it is low, eat something to bring it back up to the right level.

6. Drinking slowly can save your life

When you drink too much alcohol, you may feel dizzy , drowsy, or faint. These are similar to the symptoms of hypoglycemia. That's why it's important to let people around you know that you have diabetes. Then, even if you act tired, they will know that your blood sugar may be low . If you have hypoglycemia, you will need food or glucose tablets to bring your blood glucose levels back up to normal.

7. Drinking within your limits can save your life.

Your doctor will tell you how much alcohol you can drink. Depending on your body, including other medical conditions, you may not be able to drink alcohol. Sometimes, women with diabetes can only drink one glass of alcohol a day. The maximum amount men can drink is two glasses a day.

Remember:

• Drinking alcohol can be harmful for diabetics.
• Drinking alcohol can lower or increase blood sugar levels.
• It is dangerous to take alcohol with some antidiabetic medications.
• Don't drink alcohol on an empty stomach.
• Check your blood sugar level before drinking.
• Drink slowly, know your limits.
• Tell all your friends that you are diabetic.
• Ask your doctor how much alcohol you can drink.

Finally:

Diabetes and alcohol are not a good mix. If you are diabetic, think carefully before drinking alcohol. Talk to your doctor about this and get the advice that is right for you. Remember, your health is what matters!