Managing Diabetes and Alcohol

Living with diabetes you know it must be managed by considering its influence on everything you do, and yes, that includes how you choose to party.

For any special event -- and we consider living life to be the most special periodic event of all – there is no need to punish or deprive yourself for having diabetes. Even so, joining in a celebration or participating in an event can be a challenge for those managing their diabetes. There are minefields of situations to navigate be they birthdays, anniversaries, holidays or simply and evening out with the boy or girls.  With some planning you can maintain diabetes management minimizing the chances of experiencing a healthcare catastrophe.

 Tips for a Diabetics Party Plan

As part of the plan to party discuss an individual approach with  your diabetes healthcare professional team – especially when it comes to using alcohol.  Always be sure to keep your glucose monitor close at hand, checking it periodically.  Periodic checks are the only way to know if you are safe or headed for a situation.

Celebrating with champagne, because of its high sugar content, may cause you to need less basal insulin. Carry emergency glucose tablets and a protein bar and perhaps enjoy a small snack before arriving at the event to avoid a graze. If cake is important, by all means have some. Offset its influence with exercise before or after indulgence, moderate your carbohydrate intake and consider having extra diabetes medications on hand. 

Sip your drink slowly to make your drink last. Order a side of water and alternate consumption. Order your drink tall, this means it is mixed with more of your mixer than a drink in a short or rocks glass. Be sure the mixer you choose is a sugar free mixer, club soda, or water. This is perferable to a diet soda as diet sodas can increase the effects of alcohol.

Just like finding an appropriate thing to wear or arranging the perfect gift, managing your diabetes should top the event checklist.  No matter the occasion, a little preparation can ensure having diabetes will not interfere with your experiences. There are a few rules that you should follow.