Beer can affect blood sugar in two opposite ways: its carbohydrates may cause an initial rise, while alcohol can lead to a delayed drop. The later dip may be especially risky for people with diabetes who use insulin or certain glucose-lowering medications.

Why beer can raise and lower glucose

Beer is made from ingredients such as malted barley, which contains starch. The body converts carbohydrates into glucose, so beer may raise blood sugar. The effect depends on the beer’s carbohydrate content, how much you drink and what you’ve eaten.

Alcohol can have the opposite effect. The liver normally helps keep glucose steady by releasing stored sugar and making more, particularly between meals and overnight. When alcohol is present, the liver prioritizes breaking it down, which can temporarily limit its ability to release glucose. As a result, blood sugar may fall hours after drinking—even during the night.

Low blood sugar can cause shakiness, dizziness and confusion, symptoms that may be mistaken for intoxication.

Ways to reduce the risks

If you choose to drink beer, a few steps may help you make more informed choices:

• Keep portions in mind. In the U.S., one standard drink is about 12 ounces of regular beer at 5% alcohol by volume. A larger serving or a higher-alcohol beer may contain more than one standard drink.
• Compare beer labels. Lighter beers often have fewer carbohydrates and calories, but this varies by brand. Lower carbohydrate content does not necessarily mean lower alcohol content.
• Have beer with food. A balanced meal containing protein, fiber-rich carbohydrates and healthy fats may help reduce the risk of alcohol-related low blood sugar. Food does not eliminate alcohol’s effects on the liver.
• Monitor glucose if you have diabetes. Watch for patterns before and after drinking, and consider checking your blood sugar before bed. A rise at first does not rule out a later drop.
• Ask about medication risks. Alcohol can increase the risk of hypoglycemia with some diabetes medications. Don’t change or skip prescribed medication unless your health care provider advises you to.
• Consider nonalcoholic beer. It avoids alcohol’s delayed effects, but check the label because it may still contain carbohydrates.

U.S. dietary guidance has traditionally described moderate drinking as up to one drink per day for women and up to two for men. These are limits, not daily targets; drinking less or not at all can reduce alcohol-related health risks.

Beer does not necessarily have to be completely off the table for everyone managing blood sugar, but the effects vary. People with diabetes should discuss drinking and appropriate precautions with their health care team or a diabetes educator.

Read the original article on EatingWell