Blood Glucose

Diabetics have to monitor their blood glucose (or blood sugar) levels as part of managing their disease. Target levels are 70 to 130 before meals and less than 180 one to two hours after the start of a meal.

Insulin

High blood sugar levels cause health problems, so when levels are high a diabetic needs medication to control their blood glucose. Insulin removes glucose from the blood and moves it into the body's cells.

Sugar

Large amounts of sugar will cause blood glucose levels to rise. This causes a surge of insulin to be released in a healthy person. Type 1 diabetics have little to no insulin production. Type 2 diabetics have become resistant to insulin.

Simple Carbohydrates

Simple carbohydrates (also called simple sugars) like white pasta, bread and rice are metabolized by the human body the same way as regular sugar. Alcohol is also processed as a sugar and will have the same effect on glucose levels.

Conclusion

Diabetics can eat sugar in limited amounts. Their blood glucose levels will be effected, but can usually be controlled with insulin or medication. But, they should limit or eliminate sugar, alcohol and simple carbohydrates in order to maintain healthy blood glucose levels.

Source:

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: What I need to know about eating and diabetes

American Diabetes Association: Diabetes basics

More Information:

Macrobiotic Guide UK