Though many people believe sugar should not be consumed by diabetics, simple and complex sugars are a necessary part of everyone's diet for nutrition and energy purposes. However, too much or too little sugar in our diet may pose a threat to our health if not controlled and monitored properly.

Misconceptions

The American Heart Association points out that many people believe that those with diabetes should not consume sugar, but such a belief is a huge misconception. Your body needs natural sugars, like those found in carbohydrates, milk and fruit, to function properly. However, a high consumption of sugar in your diet will cause weight gain, which contributes to health complications like diabetes.

Function

Natural sugars from carbohydrates, like those found in starches and fruits, versus table sugars from candy, are important to your body because they provide you with energy. When the body has too much or too little glucose in the blood stream, health problems may arise, so moderation is essential for proper blood sugar levels.

Effects

If diabetics don't consume natural sugars in their diet, they can acquire hyperglycemia, which is low blood sugar that causes fainting, seizures, comas or possibly even death. Monitoring blood sugar is important so that hyperglycemia does not occur.

Considerations

Diabetics who consume a lot of sugar need to exercise often and eat natural sugars in moderation to keep glucose from building up in the bloodstream. Switching to low-calorie sweeteners is also beneficial to diabetics, since they don't raise blood sugar levels, according to Diabetesmellitus-information.com

Warning

Foods that are labeled as sugar-free may still contain carbohydrates, which are converted into glucose just like regular sugar from candy or other sweets, so sugar intake should be closely monitored by the diabetic, a registered dietitian and a physician.

Source:

Can Diabetics Have Sweets?

Advice About Sugar

Hypoglycemia

More Information:

American Diabetes Association

Simpe Sugars