Moderate consumption of alcohol has proven to be a beneficial health factor for some people such as it helps lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases. But the question here is it good for patients having type 2 diabetes?
Research shows moderate consumption of alcohol and diabetes can safely be mixed and moderate drinking of alcohol can have positive effects on type 2 diabetes. The most beneficial is red wine.
However, the emphasis is on the word “moderate.” Here moderation is one drink a day for women and no more than two a day for men. As we all know, excess of anything is bad so is the case with excessive drinking of alcohol. It can increase risks of heart diseases as well as metabolic syndrome. In addition, too much consumption of alcohol can result in weight gain and insulin resistance for type 2 patients.
If you want to drink your beer without creating health problems for yourself then you need to understand how drinking effects your body.
Effects of Alcohol on Type 2 Diabetes
Studies show one drink with a meal may have positive temporary benefits for a person who has type 2 diabetes. Isolated episodes of drinking slightly increases insulin which as a result lowers blood sugar levels.
Because drinking can lower blood sugar, a phenomenon called hypoglycemia unawareness can easily occur. This typically happens when people who tightly control their blood sugar levels with insulin fail to notice the symptoms of hypoglycemia or may not recognize the symptoms, which makes drinking somewhat of a gamble.
For more information, click here for an article from the American Diabetes Association, the holy grail for all things diabetes, regarding alcohol and type 2 diabetes.
At the end of the day, consult your physician and continue researching to make an informed decision if drinking alcohol is right for you and your health. BTW, this recommendation, consult your physician and research, applies for whatever illness, disease, you are struggling with.
Leave a Reply