This increase may be associated with targeted marketing geared toward normalizing alcohol consumption for women and other social pressures. Unfortunately, women are more likely to suffer negative health consequences from alcohol since they make less of the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase, which means alcohol levels can quickly reach toxic levels.

Alcohol is especially tricky for women with diabetes who take insulin or sulfonylureas, since the combination increases the risk of hypoglycemia. Yet, many people think alcohol will elevate blood sugars since it “tastes sweet”.  In addition, alcohol contributes to unwanted weight gain.

Key Message – Let’s ask women about their alcohol consumption and discuss limiting alcohol intake to no more than 1 drink a day (which is the recommended amount for all women, regardless if they have diabetes or not).

To learn more check out our May Diabetes Ed Newsletter!