**1. The ‘Zero Sugar’ Trap**
‘Zero sugar’ soju is a product that uses artificial sweeteners instead of fructose, making its sugar content zero. People with diabetes might feel ‘safe’ drinking it, thinking that no sugar means it won’t raise their blood sugar. However, the real problem lies not with the ‘sugar,’ but with the ‘alcohol’ itself.
**2. The Effects of Alcohol on Diabetes**
– **Calories from Alcohol:** Alcohol is a high-calorie energy source, providing 7 kcal per gram. A bottle of zero sugar soju (360ml) contains about 300-400 kcal, which is more than a bowl of rice. This is detrimental to weight management.
– **Risk of Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar):** Alcohol interferes with the liver’s ability to produce glucose. Especially for those taking insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents, severe hypoglycemia can occur several hours after drinking. This can be a more dangerous emergency than hyperglycemia.
– **Impaired Judgment:** Drinking can impair your ability to recognize the symptoms of hypoglycemia and reduce your ability to respond to it.
**3. If You Must Drink**
– **Never Drink on an Empty Stomach:** You must drink only a small amount with a meal.
– **Check Blood Sugar Before and After:** You should check your blood sugar after drinking and before going to bed to prepare for potential hypoglycemia.
Summary: You should not be misled by the ‘zero sugar’ label. For people with diabetes, alcohol is always an object of caution, regardless of the sugar content, due to the calories of the alcohol itself and the risk of hypoglycemia.
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