
Type 1 diabetes and drinking: tips for young adults
Type 1 diabetes shouldn't get in the way of a great night. Here are some tips to help you make sure it doesn't.
First thing's first: the principles of sensible drinking apply whether you have diabetes or not. It’s safest not to regularly drink more than 14 units a week. You can read more at drinkaware.co.uk
And when you have Type 1 diabetes, there are some extra things to think about to make sure you’re safe. Drinking alcohol can make managing blood sugar levels more tricky, and increase your risk of hypos while you're drinking and the day after.
We've brought together tips from young adults and guidance to help you manage your diabetes so nothing gets in the way of having a great time.
Before a night out
Don’t drink on an empty stomach. Eating a carb-containing meal like pasta before a night out drinking will help balance your blood sugar levels.
Get all your diabetes kit and hypo treatments ready in advance, especially if you’re pre-drinking. It'll help you avoid forgetting any of your essentials, or having a mad rush when the taxi arrives.
Make sure the friends you are with know about your diabetes and what to do if you have a hypo.
Check your blood sugar level before you go out.
Make sure you have a pint of water and your hypo treatments ready next to your bed for when you get home.
On a night out
Pace yourself and check your blood sugar level regularly so you can catch any hypos early.
Have diet or sugar-free mixers with any spirits. There's more information about different types of alcohol and the affect they might have on your sugar levels on the main alcohol
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