The Greek Diabetes Society recommends moderation for adults with diabetes, highlighting the risks of hypoglycaemia and blood sugar fluctuations linked to alcohol intake.
Alcohol is not forbidden for people with diabetes, but specialists say it should be treated with caution and clear limits. The Greek Diabetes Society advises moderation for adults with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes, noting that alcohol affects both calorie intake and the way the body processes it, which can influence overall health. Medical guidance also warns that the effects can vary depending on whether drinking is occasional or excessive and whether food is taken at the same time.
The main concern is hypoglycaemia, or low blood sugar, which can happen soon after drinking or even up to 24 hours later. Healthline, WebMD, the Cleveland Clinic and the American Diabetes Association all say alcohol can interfere with the liver’s ability to release glucose, making blood sugar fall to dangerous levels. For that reason, people with diabetes are generally advised to check glucose before, during and after drinking, and to be especially careful overnight.
The Greek Diabetes Society says a daily limit of up to 1 unit for women and 2 for men is the benchmark when alcohol is chosen, with 1 unit equal to 350 ml of beer, 150 ml of wine or 45 ml of spirits. It adds that dry white wine, tsipouro and spirits such as whisky or vodka mixed with water or lemon juice are usually the safer options, while beer and sweet wines can raise blood sugar because they contain carbohydrates. WebMD and other clinical sources similarly advise avoiding sugary mixers and sweet drinks.
Doctors also stress that alcohol should never be taken on an empty stomach. Drinking with food slows absorption and reduces the risk of a sudden drop in glucose, particularly for people using insulin or other glucose-lowering medicines. Caution is even more important for anyone with excess weight, high blood pressure or high triglycerides, for whom the Greek guidance says alcohol should be limited further or avoided altogether.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
