It’s hard enough to manage your blood pressure when you have diabetes type 2 but adding alcohol into the mix makes it extremely challenging. As a man with type 2, it is important to understand the risk of drinking when also have hypertension.
A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, expressed “both moderate and heavy alcohol consumption appear to be independently associated with higher odds of high blood pressure among those with Type 2 diabetes.”
Drinker Types and Hypertension
A diabetic man who was a light drinker ( 1-7 drinks per week) was not connected to high blood pressure. Moderate drinkers, those that drank 8-14 drinks per week, resulted in an increase in their chances of high blood pressure by 79% and heavy drinkers, 15 or more drinks per week, had their odds increased by 91%. The more alcohol you drink each week, the greater your chance of having high blood pressure and your case of hypertension will be more severe.
Moving Forward with New Choices
As a man with hypertension and diabetes type 2, it is time to reflect and consider modifications to your drinking routine. Can you start by finding a drink that satisfies your taste buds without adding carbs and calories? Will cutting out a beer during the football game be the start?
Healthier Suggestions
- Drink more water every day
- Choose light beers with low calories and carbs
- Try non-alcoholic drinks
- Pick a small glass of wine while preparing meals or after dinner
- Use caution with craft beers as they can have more calories and alcohol
- Add calorie free soda or water to mixed drinks
- Use sugar substitutes and fresh fruit in margaritas
You still need to take your hypertensive medicine, insulin or any other medications your medical provider has prescribed for you for your diseases.
