Diabetes & Alcohol: What Diabetics Need to Know About Wine and Beer

Around 4.3 million people in the UK are living with diabetes, and millions more are managing pre-diabetes or insulin resistance. Alcohol affects blood sugar in multiple ways — and the type of drink matters considerably.

Can people with diabetes drink alcohol?

Yes — with consideration. Diabetes UK confirms that people with diabetes can drink alcohol, but several factors need to be managed. Alcohol initially raises blood sugar, then lowers it as the liver prioritises metabolising alcohol over releasing stored glucose — which can increase the risk of hypoglycaemia (a hypo) for up to 24 hours after drinking. Key considerations: drink with food; don't exceed 14 units per week; choose drinks that are low in sugar and carbohydrates.

Why sugar content in drinks matters for diabetics

Most mainstream alcoholic drinks contain significant levels of sugar that aren't declared on the label. A standard supermarket rosé can contain 5–8g of sugar per 125ml glass. Non-alcoholic alternatives aren't automatically better — many contain over 60g of sugar per litre. Every wine at DrinkWell is confirmed at 0g of sugar per 125ml serving.

Best wine for diabetics at DrinkWell

• → TRACES Sauvignon Blanc — 78 kcal, 0g sugar, 0g carbs, 11% ABV, £9.99
• → El Ninot de Paper Grenache Shiraz — 76 kcal, 0g sugar, 0g carbs, 11% ABV, £9.99
• → Piattini Pinot Grigio — 82 kcal, 0g sugar, 0g carbs, 12% ABV, £10.99
• → Les Oliviers Grenache Cinsault Rosé — 69 kcal, 0g sugar, 0g carbs, 11% ABV, £12.49
• → Escena Rioja — 90 kcal, 0g sugar, 0g carbs, 13% ABV, £12.49

Best beer for diabetics at DrinkWell

• → Tennents Light Lager — 60 kcal, 0.7g carbs, 0g sugar, 3.5% ABV, £34.99 for 24
• → Lean Brew IPA — 99 kcal, 3g carbs, 0g sugar, 4.5% ABV, from £17.99

Shop diabetic-friendly drinks

• → Wine for diabetics collection
• → Diabetes-friendly beer and lager
• → Zero sugar wine — full nutritional info on every page

We always recommend discussing alcohol consumption with your GP or diabetes healthcare team, particularly regarding how alcohol interacts with your medication and insulin management.

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