How much wine can you drink with diabetes?

Can You Drink Wine If You Have Diabetes?

Living with diabetes doesn’t mean giving up everything you enjoy—including wine—but it does mean being mindful. Alcohol affects how your body manages blood sugar, especially because it can interfere with the liver’s ability to release glucose. This is particularly important for people on insulin or medications that lower blood sugar, as drinking alcohol may increase the risk of hypoglycemia, even hours after drinking.

So, how much wine is safe? Experts generally recommend sticking to moderate drinking. One unit of alcohol equals about 10ml or 8g of pure alcohol—roughly half a standard (175ml) glass of wine at 12% ABV. The UK’s Chief Medical Officers advise no more than 14 units of alcohol per week for adults, spread over several days, with alcohol-free days included. That translates to about six medium glasses of wine a week, at most.

But with diabetes, it’s not just about quantity—it’s also about choices. Sweet wines tend to have more sugar, which can cause blood glucose spikes. Opting for drier varieties, like brut sparkling wine or a dry white, can help minimize this effect. Always drink with food to reduce the risk of low blood sugar, and never drink on an empty stomach.

Monitoring your blood sugar before and after drinking can help you understand how alcohol affects you personally. And remember, if you're on medication, alcohol can interact unpredictably. It’s always wise to talk to your healthcare provider about what’s safe for your individual situation.

Ultimately, enjoying a glass of wine with diabetes is possible—with balance, awareness, and caution.