Diabetic? Some drinking tips

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the average South African consumes 11l of alcohol in a year – almost twice as much as the global average. Out of 195 countries surveyed, SA closes the top 30.

In addition, the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) counts 3.5 million diabetics in South Africa and about 2 million cases are undiagnosed.

With these statistics in mind and the country’s imminent descent to Level 3 – which entails a further easing of restrictions on alcohol – the need for education on alcohol consumption for people living with diabetes is high.

“When you drink, ethanol, found in alcohol, is released and it is toxic to the body. But when the liver is unable to release glucose into the bloodstream, it causes hypoglycaemia or low blood sugar,” says Omy Naidoo, dietician at Newtricion Wellness Dieticians.

However, the real danger resides in the fact that the symptoms displayed by a hypoglycaemic are very similar to that of a person who is intoxicated. “You may slur your speech, wobble around, feel dizzy or weak. So if you having a night out with people, and have a low blood sugar level, your mates may think you have just had too much to drink,” said Naidoo.

When this goes untreated, low blood sugar level can cause seizures, loss of consciousness, and even death.

Some tips to minimising the risks:

Drink what diabetes experts recommend: two drinks per day for men and one for women. A single drink is the same as a single of a spirit, or 330ml beer or a medium glass of wine.

If taking medication such as insulin, try to have a sober person around. An intoxicated patient can dial up too much insulin.

Exercise lowers your blood sugar levels, and in the event of heavy drinking, this could increase your risk of having a hypoglycaemia.

Work with a dietician on a plan to incorporate alcohol into your diet.