June 2015

Should alcohol should be off limits with diabetes? Most people with diabetes can have a moderate amount of alcohol. Research has shown that there can be some health benefits such as reducing risk for heart disease. But, moderation is important. People with diabetes should follow the same guidelines as those without diabetes if they choose to drink:

• Women should have no more than 1 drink per day.
• Men should have no more than 2 drinks per day.

One drink is equal to a 12 oz. beer, 5 oz. glass of wine or 1 ½ oz. distilled spirits (vodka, whiskey, gin, etc.).

Alcohol can affect blood sugar and awareness of hypoglycemia. If you have any questions about whether alcohol is safe for you, and about how to incorporate an occasional alcoholic beverage into your food plan, check with your doctor.

Source: American Diabetes Association