Enjoying Wine Safely with Diabetes: Tips for Balanced Blood Sugar

People managing diabetes can still enjoy a glass of wine, but doing so safely is essential for stable blood glucose. The key is moderation, awareness, and preparation for possible lows and highs.

WINE AND DIABETES FOR PEOPLE MANAGING DIABETES

Enjoying wine in moderation is possible for people managing diabetes if blood sugar is well controlled and there are no conflicting medical reasons. Red and white wines generally have less sugar than dessert or sweet wines, making them better choices.

Drinking alcohol, including wine, can increase the risk of hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar), especially when paired with insulin or certain diabetes medications. To reduce this risk, always drink wine with food containing carbohydrates, never on an empty stomach, and monitor blood sugar before and after drinking.

Australian guidelines recommend up to 10 standard drinks a week and no more than four in one sitting for adults. One glass of wine (about 150 mL) is considered one standard drink.

Tips for people managing diabetes who enjoy wine:

• Choose dry red or white wine over sweet or dessert wines.
• Always eat a balanced meal with your wine and avoid drinking on an empty stomach.
• Check blood sugar before, during, and after drinking—especially before bed, as alcohol-related hypos can occur overnight.
• Carry your hypo treatment and let someone know you are drinking in case you need assistance.
• Consider a carbohydrate snack before bed if you have been drinking.

By keeping these strategies in mind, people managing diabetes can enjoy wine and celebrations while protecting their well-being. Always speak with a healthcare provider if you have questions about how alcohol fits into your diabetes plan.

Explore our blog for more tips and resources on diabetes management.

Disclaimer: This blog is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or a qualified health provider with any questions about your condition. If you have a medical emergency, call 911 (US) or 000 (Australia) immediately, or visit your nearest emergency care center.