Glucose Monitor

There are plenty of times when diabetics may need to monitor their blood sugar levels aside from normal checks. In particular, diabetics should monitor their blood glucose carefully when they consume alcohol. If an occasion calls for toasts or cocktails, it's especially important to carry your glucose monitor and extra test strips with you.

Diabetes and Alcohol Can Make for a Dangerous Combination
American Diabetic Supply encourages every diabetic to keep in mind that alcohol can cause low blood sugar. Alcohol can also impair your memory and you might forget to eat or take your shot. It is also important to realize that others may think you are "tipsy" when you may actually be having a low blood sugar reaction. This could delay the proper medical attention you need.

It is important to remember that in some areas, emergency personnel are not allowed to look in your wallet or through your personal belongings. This is a great reason to have a medical alert bracelet on you at all times, especially when you think you may be drinking.

The only way to ensure you stay within normal blood glucose range when drinking is to check your blood sugar levels with your monitor. This will alert you if your levels are dropping. If they are, you can simply eat a snack to raise them back to the proper zone. In general, it is recommended that diabetics do not drink. However, if you do, you should try to do so only with a meal. Always drink responsibly--your life depends on it.