How do smoking and alcohol impact diabetes control?

Smoking and alcohol consumption can significantly impact diabetes control, often exacerbating the condition and increasing the risk of complications. Here’s how each affects diabetes management:

  1. Smoking and Diabetes Control

  • Increased Insulin Resistance: Smoking makes the body less sensitive to insulin, leading to higher blood sugar levels and making diabetes harder to manage.
  • Higher Risk of Cardiovascular Disease: Smoking damages blood vessels and increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease, which are already high in incidence among people with diabetes.
  • Worsened Blood Sugar Control: Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes can interfere with blood sugar regulation, leading to more frequent spikes and drops.
  • Increased Risk of Complications: Smoking accelerates the development of diabetes-related complications, such as kidney disease, nerve damage (neuropathy), and eye problems (retinopathy).
  • Poor Wound Healing: Smoking reduces blood flow, impairing the body’s ability to heal wounds, which is particularly dangerous for diabetics who are prone to foot ulcers and infections.

  1. Alcohol and Diabetes Control

  • Hypoglycaemia (Low Blood Sugar): Alcohol can cause blood sugar levels to drop dangerously low, especially if consumed on an empty stomach or in combination with diabetes medications like insulin or sulfonylureas. This risk can persist for several hours after drinking.
  • Hyperglycaemia (High Blood Sugar): Some alcoholic beverages, particularly those high in sugar (e.g., cocktails, sweet wines, and beers), can raise blood sugar levels.
  • Caloric Intake and Weight Gain: Alcohol is high in calories and can contribute to weight gain, which makes diabetes management more challenging.
  • Interference with Medications: Alcohol can interact with diabetes medications, altering their effectiveness and increasing the risk of side effects.
  • Liver Function: The liver plays a key role in regulating blood sugar. When alcohol is consumed, the liver prioritizes metabolizing alcohol over regulating blood sugar, which can lead to unstable glucose levels.
  • Increased Risk of Neuropathy: Excessive alcohol consumption can worsen nerve damage, a common complication of diabetes.

Recommendations for People with Diabetes:

Smoking: Quitting smoking is one of the most important steps to improve diabetes control and reduce the risk of complications. Seek support from your doctors or try to enrol yourself in smoking cessation programs.

Alcohol: No amount of alcohol consumption is safer for humans in the long run. However, If you choose to drink, do so in moderation after consulting your doctor and your dietitian. Avoid sugary drinks, monitor blood sugar levels closely, and never drink on an empty stomach.

For personalized advice on diabetes management, feel free to consult us at Dr. Mohan’s Diabetes Specialities Centre.

By avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol intake, individuals with diabetes can better control their condition and reduce the risk of serious complications.

Dr. Santhilal Adhikarla
Consultant
Dr. Mohan’s Diabetes Specialities Centre
Kukatpally Branch, Hyderabad