More than 23 million Americans have diabetes, according the National Institutes of Health. Diabetes is a metabolic illness in which the body creates either too little or too much insulin, the hormone that distributes or blood sugar. With low blood sugar, a diabetic's body does not get enough fuel to operate. Medication and your liver are supposed to help restore glucose levels in the body when they are low. But whiskey interferes with that process---so drinking it adds further complications to an already difficult-to-control health disorder.
Whiskey and Diabetes
Unlike beer, wine and liquor, whiskey has no carbohydrates. So if you're going to drink an alcoholic beverage, whiskey is a better choice, comparatively.
Drinking moderate amounts of whiskey, however, can still cause blood sugar to rise. And alcohol triggers an urge to eat, which also affects blood sugar. As the mind becomes altered while drinking, a diabetic may not be as careful to monitor her insulin levels.
What is Hypoglycemia?
The National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse explains that low blood sugar causes hypoglycemia--one of a diabetic's top concerns. Drinking whiskey places you at higher risk for developing this debilitating condition, which mimics inebriation, but is much more dangerous.
If a diabetic's insulin levels are not kept in check, hypoglycemia can set in quick and last for about eight to 12 hours. Because the liver works on eliminating alcohol--a perceived dangerous toxin--before resuming normal function, which for a diabetic would be turning glycogen into life-saving glucose, A diabetic should check his blood glucose before his first drink. If your blood-sugar levels are low, it's best to refrain from drinking.
Eating while drinking whiskey may help keep blood-sugar more balanced.
Symptoms of Hypoglycemia
Symptoms of hypoglycemia are similar to drinking too much alcohol: disorientation, slurred speech and dizziness. Hypoglycemia can cause unconsciousness and possibly even coma or death. Unless you're wearing a medical I.D. bracelet, if you have an adverse reaction while drinking, people won't know to treat you for diabetes and will instead treat you as if you're drunk.
Conflicts
Another problem with whiskey is that it is filling and may influence your eating habits. Whiskey can trigger your brain to want to eat less or eat less healthy meals. After all, whiskey goes much better with a steak than a garden salad.
Suggestions
Women should limit themselves to one serving (1.5 ounces) of whiskey a day. Men shouldn't drink more than two servings of whiskey daily. Diabetics who drink whiskey regularly should tell their doctor so that their medication is adjusted properly. You can also talk to a dietitian about how to incorporate whiskey into your diet by limiting some other foods that metabolize in the system in a similar way, or adding foods that counteract its effects.
If you use a mixer, it's best to mix whiskey with water, club soda or another sugar-and-calorie free beverage. Avoid mixers that can raise glucose levels, such as colas. Snacks that can help keep insulin levels in check include raw vegetables, baked chips, and low-fat yogurt or dips.
