Question

I've recently been diagnosed as diabetic (type 2) and told to give up all kinds of alcohol. This is very difficult for me, as I'm a PR representative and have to schmooze with a lot of media people.

Will one or two drinks do me any harm?
 

Answer

The advice you have been given - to give up all kinds of alcohol, is probably well meaning. Possibly to allow you to first grasp an understanding of living with diabetes type 2 since you have been diagnosed only recently.
 

Being a diabetic, the life style changes necessary are what all people should be following to keep themselves healthy. A priority for you will be to keep your blood sugars under good control. and this is managed by following a high fibre, heart healthy diet which is low in fat and cholesterol, regular exercise to lose any excess weight and to keep your body weight normal for you and no smoking. However, small amounts of alcohol will do no harm and can be enjoyed.
 

As you have type 2 diabetes any alcohol you consume should take the place of other foods in your meal plan. You will learn how to count the calories, carbohydrates and exchanges in alcoholic drinks and non-alcoholic beer and wine, allowing you to have one or two drinks and still keep your blood sugars under control (see related links below). It is best to drink alcohol only when diabetes is under control. Sip slowly to make the drink last. Try a wine spritzer (wine and club soda) or mix liquor with plenty of water, club soda or diet soda to make it last. Limit yourself to one or two drinks per day. Drink alcohol with food, not by itself. Munch on pretzels, popcorn or crackers if you are drinking apart from a meal. Wear medical identification, because if you have a low blood glucose reaction at any time, you want others to know that you have diabetes and are not drunk. Alcohol can change your judgment, so be careful with medicine, food and testing after you have had alcohol. Do not drive after drinking alcohol. Alcohol can make blood glucose too high or too low. You need to know when and how to drink to keep your diabetes under control. Alcohol has calories. You should fit these calories into your food plan, especially if you want to lose weight or maintain normal weight. You need to know if and when it is safe for you to drink alcohol. These related links below may be of further assistance to you, and enjoy your schmoozing with the media people!
 

Related Links
Alcohol and Your Diabetes
How to Count Alcohol
Living with Diabetes Successfully
Glucose monitoring, diet, exercise, and everyday living