Alcohol And Type 1 Diabetes: Information And Warnings

Date Jul 12, 2022

Alcohol typically impacts blood sugar management, and consuming it requires special attention when you have Type 1 diabetes.

Objective: be responsible drinkers without giving up this pleasure!

Alcohol And Blood Sugar: What You Need To Know

Consuming alcohol increases the risk of hypoglycemia – which can occur up to 24 hours after having a drink. Alcohol is immediately released into the bloodstream. The liver then breaks down and eliminates alcohol by filtering the blood. This can interfere with your ability to perform “normal” tasks, such as releasing glucose to regulate blood glucose levels. In doing so, alcohol can increase the effects of insulin, and lead to more severe hypoglycemia.

Alcohol also causes insulin resistance, which makes insulin less efficient. In addition, some mixed drinks (think screwdrivers, whisky coke, and cocktails with names as exotic as their ingredients are sweet) contain a high level of quickly digested carbohydrates. There is a very real risk of hyperglycemia in the short term! This is why it is not uncommon to have a series of episodes of hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia when consuming these types of drinks.

Food And Drink

To overcome these risks, nothing beats eating; food in your stomach will slow down the absorption of alcohol. The classic mistake: drinking on an empty stomach. This is particularly not recommended with Type 1 diabetes, because of the increased risk of hypoglycemia. Especially if you drink ‘pure’ alcohol without added sugars, such as a glass of whisky or wine. We therefore recommend consuming alcohol with a meal or as an aperitive while enjoying the appetizers. Check your blood sugar regularly and always keep a supply of food close by to treat hypoglycemia.

Tip: Drink slowly and alternate your drinks with non-alcoholic (and sugar-free) drinks, ideally water. Alcohol actually tends to dehydrate.

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What Are The Best Drinks For People With Type 1 Diabetes?

Good to know: some alcohol, such as sweet (or cooked) wines and beer, contain a lot of carbohydrates. Sodas, industrial juices and other blends used for cocktails can also be very sweet. If you’re the one hosting, why not make your own cocktail? You can therefore use a reduced amount of alcohol, and add low sugar mixtures, such as flavoured sparkling water, vegetable juices or freshly squeezed fruit juice.

To better know and control your alcoholic intake, here are some nutrition facts:

Alcohol	ml	Carbohydrates	Calories
Beer (5% alcohol)	340ml	12g	145
Cognac	45ml	0g	115
Gin, rum, scotch, vodka, whisky	45ml	0g	100
Dry white wine (12% alcohol)	140ml	1g	82
Cooked port wine	85 ml	10g	130
Martini	100 ml	14g	160
Champagne	140ml	2g	80
Red wine (12% alcohol)	140ml	2g	90
Rosé	140ml	2g	86
Aperol Spritz	175ml	8g	125
Mojito	250ml	25g	217
Gin and Tonic	250ml	15g	171

Moderation: the secret to a having good night

This is true for anyone: alcohol should be consumed in moderation. “Moderate consumption” is a maximum of two drinks per day for women and three for men, and less than ten to fifteen per week. In Type 1 diabetes, particular care should be taken not to exceed these recommendations: excessive consumption can lead to serious complications, including diabetic coma.

It is strongly recommended not to drink alone. When going out, make sure you are accompanied by someone who is aware of the symptoms of hypoglycemia and who is ready to help you if necessary. Caution: Signs of hypoglycemia can be confused with signs of drunkenness, which can lead to dangerous situations. It may be prudent to carry your medical identification card with you.

Managing the hangover

To avoid a painful morning – especially morning hypoglycemia – always remember to test your blood sugar before hitting the hay. Important reminder (especially if you are considering sleeping in): delayed hypoglycemia can occur up to 24 hours after alcohol consumption. If necessary, you can have a snack before going to sleep to prevent nocturnal hypoglycemia or adjust your insulin doses downward – after discussion with your doctor.

Before going to bed, hydrate properly (ideally 1L) to reduce the effects of dehydration and limit (perhaps!) muscle cramps and the dreaded “hangover”.