Tuesday, April 2, 2013

Diabetes & Alcohol

Is Alcohol Safe if I have Diabetes?

Managing diabetes can be difficult. It often requires some serious lifestyle changes, specific dietary allowances and careful monitoring of blood sugar levels. Knowing how certain foods or drinks affect your health is important when managing diabetes.

Alcohol is one thing that does have an effect on diabetes. Simply put, drinking alcohol can cause your blood sugar level to rise. Alcohol compromises how your liver is able to work. If your blood sugar level falls, your liver typically releases stored sugar to counteract that. If it is needed to metabolize alcohol in your body, your blood sugar level may not get the help that it needs to stabilize. This drop in blood sugar level can happen right after you drink and possibly remain that way for several hours.

Some of the other effects of alcohol to be aware of if you have diabetes include:
  • Wine and beer contain carbohydrates that can raise your blood sugar
  • Alcohol can increase your blood pressure
  • Alcohol stimulates the appetite so overeating may affect sugar levels
  • Alcohol can interfere with any oral medications you take
  • Alcohol is a vasodialator and will make your feet swell
When it doubt, check it out! If you have diabetes and are unclear on the safety of alcohol, talk to your doctor about it. If you have your diabetes under control, it may be acceptable to allow one or two drinks a day.

Dr. Jeff Bowman, foot specialist in Houston, TX sees the effects of diabetes on a daily basis. Foot care is vital if you have diabetes. If you have an injury or unusual symptoms, please contact us today to ensure your feet stay safe! Call (713) 467-8886 or visit www.houstonfootspecialists.com.

©2013 Jeff Bowman., All Rights Reserved
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