Chandigarh 21 march 2025 (Punjab Khabarnama Bureau): The dangerous trend of alcohol consumption is continuously increasing. Nowadays, most people have started drinking alcohol. Many individuals suffer from diabetes, yet they do not stop drinking. People assume that alcohol is not sweet and, therefore, does not significantly affect blood sugar levels. However, according to doctors, alcohol consumption can be highly harmful to diabetes patients. Alcohol contains ethanol, which can disrupt blood sugar levels. Diabetic patients should strictly avoid this mistake.
Dr. Dinesh Kumar Tyagi, an Internal Medicine Specialist at Fortis Hospital in Greater Noida, told News18 that diabetes patients should avoid alcohol consumption. Alcohol contains calories and carbohydrates, which can instantly raise blood sugar levels. Drinking alcohol can cause a sudden spike in blood sugar levels. Once the effects of alcohol wear off, blood sugar levels can drop rapidly, potentially leading to hypoglycemia, which is dangerous for health. If blood sugar levels fluctuate too much—either rising too high or dropping too low—it can be life-threatening.
According to doctors, excessive alcohol consumption can also disrupt insulin function in the body, causing irregular blood sugar levels. It is crucial for diabetic patients to either avoid alcohol altogether or consume it in very limited quantities. Alcohol can affect blood sugar levels in two ways. Drinking alcohol on an empty stomach can interfere with liver function.
Alcohol is not beneficial for health in any way. According to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO), even a single drop of alcohol is not considered safe for health. Drinking even a small amount of alcohol can have harmful effects on the body.
Health experts warn that alcohol consumption can lead to dehydration, which is particularly dangerous for diabetes patients. Dehydration affects blood sugar levels and puts extra stress on the kidneys. If the body lacks proper hydration, blood sugar levels can rise rapidly. Additionally, it is essential for diabetes patients to maintain a healthy weight, as excess weight can make blood sugar management difficult. Alcohol is high in calories and can contribute to fat accumulation in the body, leading to weight gain and reduced insulin sensitivity.
Summary: A doctor explains how alcohol affects blood sugar levels and why it can be dangerous for diabetes patients, leading to potential health risks.