Q: I have diabetes. Is it safe for me to drink red wine—or even recommended?

A: Red wine in moderation usually is not harmful to people with diabetes and may benefit them by decreasing stress and lessening feelings of deprivation. But talk to your doctor…

If you take insulin: Alcohol lowers blood sugar, so you may need less insulin. Also: Eat when you drink to buffer the alcohol’s effect.

If you take the drug metformin (Glucophage): The combination of metformin and alcohol can increase the risk for a serious condition called lactic acidosis.