Diseases & Conditions

800.223.2273

10 a.m.-1:30 p.m., M-F EST

 

Diabetes and Alcohol

Diabetes - Health Aspects

With your doctor's permission, you may enjoy alcohol in moderation. Moderation is defined as no more than one drink per day for women; no more than two drinks per day for men. Here are some guidelines for drinking alcohol for people with diabetes:

  • Check with your doctor before drinking any alcoholic beverages. Discuss the safety and possible side effects of mixing alcohol and your medicines.
  • Never drink on an empty stomach. Drink alcohol with food to avoid low blood sugar reactions.
  • Do not drink alcohol before, during, or after exercise.
  • Wear diabetes identification if drinking away from home in case of a low blood sugar reaction or any other emergency.
  • Limit your alcohol consumption if you are overweight to help control calories.
  • Avoid alcohol if you are pregnant or if you have any of the following:
    • Pancreatitis
    • High triglycerides
    • Significant nerve damage
    • A history of alcohol abuse

One drink equals 4 ounces of wine, 12 ounces of beer, or 1 ounce of distilled spirits.

Pure Distilled Liquors (1 ounce) (Bourbon, Brandy, Gin, Rum, Scotch, Tequila, Vodka, Whiskey, etc.)

Item Calories Carbs
80 proof 65 0
90 proof 74 0
100 proof 83 0

Other drinks (4 ounces)

Item Calories Carbs
Daiquiri 224 8
Manhattan 256 4
Martini 250 0
Red Wine 80 2
Tequila Sunrise 125 13
White Wine 80 1

Beer (12 ounces)

Item Calories Carbs
Amstel® Light 95 5
Bud Light® 110 6.6
Coors Light® 102 5
Corona® Light 105 5
Guinness® Stout 125 9.9
Michelob® Ultra 95 2.6
Miller Lite® 96 3.2
Sam Adams Light® 124 9.7

Liqueurs (1 ounce)

Item Calories Carbs
Amaretto 80 17
Baileys® 75 5.5
Kahlua® 120 17
Triple Sec 80 12.5
Vermouth—Dry 35 1.5
Vermouth—Sweet 47 4.5

© Copyright 1995-2010 The Cleveland Clinic Foundation. All rights reserved.

Can't find the health information you’re looking for?

This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. This document was last reviewed on: 12/10/2007...#11654


Join the Conversation

By posting on any site below, you are bound by the Social Media Policy.

Like Us

Share experiences, ask questions, learn about conditions, and enjoy fun wellness tips.

Follow Us

Interactive forum for the health-minded and curious. Find quick, credible info and insight.

On YouTube

Choose from over 1,200 videos, including health tips for daily living and the latest medical research.

Watch Cleveland Clinic on YouTube
On Pinterest

Find cool, off-the-wall and just plain interesting medical art, books, buildings, food and more.

Follow Cleveland Clinic on Pinterest
On Mobile

Access Cleveland Clinic on the go! Get apps for wellness, education, innovation, and research!

Get Apps