How does alcohol consumption affect diabetes and insulin therapy?

Alcohol consumption can indeed increase the risk of hypoglycemia in individuals with diabetes, particularly if they are using insulin or certain oral hypoglycemic medications. This occurs because alcohol can inhibit gluconeogenesis, which is the process by which the liver produces glucose. When a person consumes alcohol, it can interfere with the liver’s ability to release glucose into the bloodstream, especially during periods of fasting or if the individual has not eaten enough.

Furthermore, alcohol’s effects can be unpredictable and vary depending on several factors such as the amount consumed, whether it is consumed with food, and the individual’s metabolic response. This makes it challenging to manage blood sugar levels effectively.

Therefore, for individuals with diabetes, especially those on insulin therapy, understanding the impact of alcohol on their blood glucose levels is crucial for preventing dangerously low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). This is why the correct response highlights the increased risk of hypoglycemia associated with alcohol consumption in the context of diabetes management.