Living with diabetes can be difficult on a daily basis, with the constant need to manage blood sugar levels, adhere to strict diet restrictions, and maintain medication routines can be stressful. Even harmless habits like drinking a glass of wine or a beer can have serious consequences for diabetes management.
Diabetes is a condition that requires close monitoring and careful management. It is essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle and adhere to prescribed medications. However, it is important to understand that certain habits, such as alcohol consumption, can have a significant impact on diabetes management. At Pharmedic Pharmacy in Calgary, we understand the complications of diabetes and the important role of medication reviews. Let’s discuss the effects of alcohol on diabetes and how our confidential medication review service at Pharmedic Pharmacy can safeguard your well-being.
The Effects of Alcohol Consumption on Diabetes
Alcohol, a legal sedative, is a key ingredient used in the production of wine, beer, and liquors. Continuous and excessive use of alcohol can lead to addiction or dependency, its misuse not only puts you at risk of individual health but also ruins relationships and leads to problems in society such as increased violence, criminal activity, accidents, and incidents of drunk driving. Individuals with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes should understand the importance of keeping your blood sugar levels under control. Additionally, a important aspect of leading a healthy life is being fully aware of how different foods and beverages impact our bodies, especially when managing a medical condition. Due to the significant impact of alcohol on blood sugar and liver function, it is important to understand how it works with specific health conditions such as diabetes.
- The Impact of Alcohol Consumption on Diabetes Medications – Depending on how much you drink, alcohol can cause blood sugar levels to rise or fall. Some diabetes medications reduce blood glucose levels by boosting the immune system to produce higher levels of insulin. However, when the medication‘s effect of lowering blood sugar levels is mixed with alcohol, it can result in a condition called hypoglycemia, also known as “insulin shock,” this is when your blood sugar level is very low, which is a medical emergency.
- It is advisable to not consume alcohol on an empty stomach – If you plan on consuming alcohol, keep in mind that having food in your stomach can significantly slow the rate at which alcohol enters your bloodstream. Consider eating a carbohydrate-rich meal or snack in order to improve this effect.
- Be Safe by knowing the limit of alcohol that is safe for you – Your healthcare provider will determine the amount of alcohol that is safe for you to consume. It should be noted that, depending on your specific health condition, to restrict yourself from drinking alcohol may be the most effective decision. Individuals with diabetes, particularly women, should limit themselves to one alcoholic beverage per day, while men should limit themselves to no more than two.
Tips to Reduce the Consumption of Alcohol
To effectively manage your alcohol consumption while safeguarding your well-being, it’s important to establish clear guidelines and use the confidential medication review service provided by Pharmedic Pharmacy. By implementing these strategies, you can take careful steps to ensure a healthier and more balanced lifestyle. Remember, having control over your alcohol intake and seeking the right support are key components in reducing alcohol consumption.
- Set Specific Limits: Begin by determining the frequency of your alcohol consumption during the week and setting a maximum limit for the number of drinks per occasion. For example, you might decide to only drink on Friday or Saturday nights and restrict yourself to a single drink per outing. By creating specific limits, you can effectively manage your alcohol intake.
- Keep Track of Your Drinks: Make use of mobile applications specially designed for tracking alcohol consumption. These apps help in keeping a record of the quantity of standard drinks you’ve consumed and help you stay within your predetermined limits. It’s crucial to understand what means a “standard” drink, such as a 12-ounce beer, a 5-ounce glass of wine, or a 1.5-ounce shot of spirits, for accurate tracking.
- Identify and Manage Triggers: Identify the situations, individuals, or locations that often lead to excessive drinking and take measures to reduce your exposure to them. If you find that social events like happy hours with colleagues tend to promote over-drinking, choose alternative social gatherings, such as catching up for lunch. Furthermore, consider removing alcoholic products from your home to minimize easy access.
- Seek Valuable Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance and encouragement as you start on your journey to reduce alcohol consumption. Engage in open conversations with a trusted friend, family member, healthcare provider, or support group, and share your commitment. They can offer emotional support, provide valuable advice, and help you stay committed to your objectives.
Pharmedic Pharmacy’s confidential medication review service is here to provide essential support on your journey toward reducing alcohol consumption. Our experienced team of dedicated pharmacists at Pharmedic Pharmacy specializes in diabetes management, and we are committed to helping you face its unique challenges. We prioritize your privacy, ensuring complete confidentiality during medication reviews. We are deeply dedicated to your well-being and overall health, making us more than just a pharmacy but a trusted partner in your journey to better health. At Pharmedic Pharmacy, we go beyond being a medication pickup spot; we’re your trusted health and wellness partner. Managing diabetes can be complex, especially when dealing with issues like alcohol consumption. Visit us today and experience the difference for yourself. Together, we will help you lead a healthy life while effectively managing diabetes.