Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) Practice Exam

What is the appropriate advice regarding alcohol consumption for a patient with type 1 diabetes and hypertension?

1. Yes, but always consume alcohol with food to minimize the risk of nocturnal hypoglycemia.

2. It is recommended to drink 2 glasses of red wine every day.

3. Yes, but substitute an alcoholic drink for 1 carb serving.

4. No, due to impacts on blood pressure.

The correct answer is: Yes, but always consume alcohol with food to minimize the risk of nocturnal hypoglycemia.

The appropriate advice regarding alcohol consumption for a patient with type 1 diabetes and hypertension is to consume alcohol with food to minimize the risk of nocturnal hypoglycemia. This is important because individuals with type 1 diabetes are at risk for hypoglycemia, particularly when consuming alcohol, which can interfere with gluconeogenesis and lead to lowered blood sugar levels. Consuming alcohol alongside food helps to slow the absorption of alcohol into the bloodstream, which can stabilize blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of hypoglycemic events, especially late at night. The other options may imply inappropriate guidelines or lack necessary caution. Regularly consuming two glasses of red wine every day does not take individual health circumstances into account, especially for someone with hypertension and diabetes. Suggesting to substitute an alcoholic drink for 1 carb serving does not directly address the risk of hypoglycemia in the context of alcohol consumption. Meanwhile, outright advising against any alcohol intake due to impacts on blood pressure might be overly restrictive, as moderation can be feasible, particularly if done with food to mitigate risks.