Alcohol and Blood Glucose

[Joe]

I was diagnosed with diabetes a while ago, and my doctor prescribed metFormin, a medicine that is supposed to lower blood glucose levels. The instruction sheet has a cryptic statement to the effect that one should consult with your health care provider if you drink alcohol while taking metFormin. When I asked about it, I was told that drinking alcoholic beverages lowers your blood glucose, so there is a danger that with the metFormin and alcohol, your blood sugar will be too low and you'll pass out or something.

I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought drinking alcohol would raise a person's blood sugar. Can anyone explain this process to me? I have not gotten a clear explanation from my pharmacist or doctor.

 

[KLS52]

It's from the Internet but every thing I'm finding says the same thing.

"Alcohol Metabolism
Alcohol is absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract and metabolized through several pathways. The majority of alcohol metabolism takes place in the liver, which is also the primary location of glucose production. Because of this, alcohol intake can interfere with the liver’s production of glucose and may cause hypoglycemia – or low blood sugar. Alcohol intake can lower blood sugar immediately and up to 12 hours after ingestion. While this effect can occur both in diabetics and non-diabetics alike, diabetics should use additional caution when drinking alcohol, especially if taking glucose-lowering medications such as insulin.
Alcohol and Blood Sugar
Symptoms of hypoglycemia are similar to alcohol intoxication, which include dizziness and disorientation. If you have diabetes and decide to drink, it may be helpful to wear identification that states you have diabetes to ensure you receive the proper care. Avoid consuming alcohol on an empty stomach and if you do drink, eat a snack that contains carbohydrates either before or while you drink to help avoid hypoglycemia. According to the American Diabetes Association, check your blood sugar before and after you drink to make sure it is within a normal range of 100 to 140 mg/dL."

 

[Joe]

It's from the Internet but every thing I'm finding says the same thing.

"Alcohol Metabolism
Alcohol is absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract and metabolized through several pathways. The majority of alcohol metabolism takes place in the liver, which is also the primary location of glucose production. Because of this, alcohol intake can interfere with the liver’s production of glucose and may cause hypoglycemia – or low blood sugar. Alcohol intake can lower blood sugar immediately and up to 12 hours after ingestion. While this effect can occur both in diabetics and non-diabetics alike, diabetics should use additional caution when drinking alcohol, especially if taking glucose-lowering medications such as insulin.
Alcohol and Blood Sugar
Symptoms of hypoglycemia are similar to alcohol intoxication, which include dizziness and disorientation. If you have diabetes and decide to drink, it may be helpful to wear identification that states you have diabetes to ensure you receive the proper care. Avoid consuming alcohol on an empty stomach and if you do drink, eat a snack that contains carbohydrates either before or while you drink to help avoid hypoglycemia. According to the American Diabetes Association, check your blood sugar before and after you drink to make sure it is within a normal range of 100 to 140 mg/dL."

This is excellent information, and is exactly what I was looking for. I'm going to print this out and take it to my doctor at my next appointment. Thank you!

 

[shyvas]

I think that it makes sense to have alcohol with your meal.

 

[Joe]

It's from the Internet but every thing I'm finding says the same thing.

"Alcohol Metabolism
Alcohol is absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract and metabolized through several pathways. The majority of alcohol metabolism takes place in the liver, which is also the primary location of glucose production. Because of this, alcohol intake can interfere with the liver’s production of glucose and may cause hypoglycemia – or low blood sugar. Alcohol intake can lower blood sugar immediately and up to 12 hours after ingestion. While this effect can occur both in diabetics and non-diabetics alike, diabetics should use additional caution when drinking alcohol, especially if taking glucose-lowering medications such as insulin.
Alcohol and Blood Sugar
Symptoms of hypoglycemia are similar to alcohol intoxication, which include dizziness and disorientation. If you have diabetes and decide to drink, it may be helpful to wear identification that states you have diabetes to ensure you receive the proper care. Avoid consuming alcohol on an empty stomach and if you do drink, eat a snack that contains carbohydrates either before or while you drink to help avoid hypoglycemia. According to the American Diabetes Association, check your blood sugar before and after you drink to make sure it is within a normal range of 100 to 140 mg/dL."

KLS52, I'm sorry to be a pest, but would you please post the URL/web address where you found the information above? I guess I am not a skilled Googler, because I was unable to find it. Thanks in advance for your help.

 

[ledboots]

I was diagnosed with diabetes a while ago, and my doctor prescribed metFormin, a medicine that is supposed to lower blood glucose levels. The instruction sheet has a cryptic statement to the effect that one should consult with your health care provider if you drink alcohol while taking metFormin. When I asked about it, I was told that drinking alcoholic beverages lowers your blood glucose, so there is a danger that with the metFormin and alcohol, your blood sugar will be too low and you'll pass out or something.

I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought drinking alcohol would raise a person's blood sugar. Can anyone explain this process to me? I have not gotten a clear explanation from my pharmacist or doctor.

My understanding is that alcohol lowers the blood glucose temporarily, like the crap you feel with a hangover, but in the long run is not good for the pancreas, so can raise blood glucose levels. Diabetics are often what is called brittle--spikes up and down dangerously. Alcohol doesn't help matters.

 

[KLS52]

KLS52, I'm sorry to be a pest, but would you please post the URL/web address where you found the information above? I guess I am not a skilled Googler, because I was unable to find it. Thanks in advance for your help.

I think it's this but I will confirm later when I get home.

Why Does Alcohol Lower Blood Sugar? | LIVESTRONG.COM