Excessive Alcohol And Diabetes: What Are The Risks?

Alcohol consumption is one of the most common ways to relax and socialize. But did you know it can be bad for your health, especially if you have diabetes? Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to high blood sugar levels, weight gain, and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. In this article, we’ll take a look at how alcohol affects people with diabetes and the risks associated with drinking too much.

Effects of Alcohol on Diabetes

Drinking too much alcohol can cause a number of problems for those with diabetes. Firstly, alcohol can cause your blood sugar levels to spike. This is because alcohol is broken down by the body into sugar, which can be difficult for people with diabetes to regulate.

Alcohol can also make it harder for your body to absorb insulin, which is needed to help regulate blood sugar levels. Additionally, drinking too much can cause dehydration, which can further affect your blood sugar levels.

Risks of Excessive Alcohol Consumption

For those with diabetes, drinking too much alcohol can lead to a number of health risks. Firstly, it can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, as excessive drinking has been linked to an increased risk of obesity and insulin resistance.

It can also increase the risk of developing complications from diabetes, such as heart disease, stroke, and nerve damage. Additionally, excessive alcohol consumption has been linked to depression and anxiety in those with diabetes.

Finally, drinking too much can lead to impaired decision-making and poor judgment, which could result in dangerous situations or unhealthy lifestyle choices.

How Much Is Too Much?

For those with diabetes, it’s important to be aware of the risks that come with drinking too much alcohol. The American Diabetes Association recommends that men limit their intake to two drinks per day, while women should limit their intake to one drink per day. A “drink” is defined as 12 ounces (355mL) of beer or wine cooler, 5 ounces (148mL) of wine or 1.5 ounces (44mL) of 80-proof distilled spirits.

It’s also important to be aware of the potential short-term effects that come with drinking too much in one sitting – such as blurred vision, confusion, low blood sugar levels and unconsciousness – and take steps to avoid them.

Tips for Reducing Your Risk

There are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing health complications from excessive alcohol consumption:

• Keep track of how much you’re drinking.
• Choose low-carb alcoholic beverages when possible.
• Drink slowly.
• Alternate between alcoholic drinks and water.
• Eat before or while drinking.
• Avoid activities that may lead to risky behaviour while drinking.

Conclusion

Excessive alcohol consumption can be bad for your health, but especially so if you have diabetes. It can cause your blood sugar levels to spike and increase your risk of developing complications from diabetes. If you do choose to drink alcohol, it’s important to be aware of the risks associated with excessive alcohol consumption and take steps to reduce them.