I’m now 16 years old. When I turn 21, I’m going to want to drink a little bit and have fun with my friends. I’m not very aware of how much I can drink or if I can drink at all. As a person with type 1, am I allowed to consume alcoholic beverages?

Drinking beverages that contain alcohol are not restricted if you are of age and have type 1 diabetes. However, you have to have a plan and avoid extremes. For instance, the beverages you drink may or may not have additional carbohydrate. Beer and wine both have carbohydrate in them. If you mix a cocktail with fruit juice or regular soda pop, the beverage will have additional carbohydrate, in addition to the liquor. The point is that early after ingesting one of these beverages, the blood sugar is likely to go up. Keep in mind that socially, many people eat when they drink. However, three or hours later, the alcohol can have a drug effect so as to decrease the amount of glucose output by the liver. Intake of more than two drinks may significantly increase your risk of lows at that time. Some of the most severe hypoglycemic episodes I have seen have been associated with alcohol. The key is moderation. Stay in control. Don’t let yourself get out of control so that you can’t identify the lows and how to treat them, and hopefully prevent them. Since alcoholic beverages are more commonly consumed at night, make sure to eat adequate carbohydrates. Begin slowly. I don’t condone heavy drinking to the point of intoxication. You are setting yourself up for trouble. If you are going to drink, be sure to do it smartly. Don’t consume alcohol and drive or operate power machinery. Be observant and check your blood sugars to see how the alcohol affects you.

JTL