The majority of people with diabetes can continue to drink alcohol, however they must be aware of the effect it can have on their blood glucose levels if they are to ‘drink safely', a diabetes expert has warned.

According to Clair Naughton, a regional development officer with Diabetes Ireland, enjoying a drink ‘is part of Irish culture'. As a result, many people wonder if they can continue to consume alcohol after they are diagnosed with diabetes.

The recommended alcohol intake for people with diabetes is actually the same as for the general population - that is no more than 17 standard drinks per week for men and no more than 11 for women. People should never consume more than five standard drinks in one sitting.

One standard drink is equivalent to a half a pint of lager, a small (125ml) glass of wine or a pub measure of spirits.

Ms Naughton pointed out that alcohol tends to increase the risk of hypoglycaemia (abnormally low blood sugar levels), which can have ‘serious life-threatening consequences'. In fact, in patients with type 1 diabetes, ‘alcohol has been implicated in up to one-fifth of hospital attendances with hypoglycaemia'.

Hypoglycaemia can cause symptoms such as confusion, visual disturbances, anxiety and heart palpatations. Early treatment to raise blood sugar levels involves the consumption of (sugary) carbohydrates, such as glucose tablets or a fizzy drink. Left untreated, the condition can result in a loss of consciousness and even death.

There are a number of ways that alcohol can increase the risk of hypoglycaemia:
-Alcohol consumption can lead to a person becoming unable to detect the warning signs of hypoglycaemia. As a result, they may fail to take corrective action
-Third parties may mistake the symptoms for intoxication and fail to help. This can have ‘potential health or even legal consequences for the individual'.

"It is essential that people with diabetes are aware of the risks of hypoglycaemia following alcohol consumption to ensure they maintain their margin of safety," Ms Naughton said.

She noted that not everyone with diabetes is at risk of hypoglycaemia. Patients on insulin therapy and those who use drugs known as sulphonylureas, which are used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes, are most at risk.

She said that if people are aware of the periods when they are most at risk, for example, after the consumption of alcohol, ‘it will enable them to be proactive by adjusting their carbohydrate intake or insulin dose accordingly'.

"Alcohol is part of everyday life for many people. It is essential however for patients with diabetes who are at risk of hypoglycaemia to know of the potential risks and how to avoid them in order so that they can enjoy alcohol safely and maintain their margin of safety," she added.

She also offered the following advice:

-Never drink on an empty stomach

-Check blood glucose levels more frequently when socialising

-Carry carbohydrates with you in case you need it quickly

-Always eat (starchy) carbohydrates before going to bed

Avoid binge drinking

-Carry ID that states you have diabetes.

Ms Naughton made her comments in WIN (World of Irish Nursing & Midwifery), the Journal of the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation.