I know someone with diabetes and he eats quite a lot of sweets and stuff, but then I know someone else that wont eat sugar at all..so what are the limits?

While eating 'quite a lot' of sugar isn't advisable, because of the ever more popular use of basal/bolus dosing, more and more diabetics DO have the option of having more variable carbohydrate meals, which can for some people include more sweets for the type 1 diabetic.



With type 2 diabetes, as strange as it may sound, many need to be FAR more -restrictive- about intake instead of -watchful- of intake, especially those trying to avoid oral medication or insulin for as long as possible.



So, long story short, sugar is not a direct no-no in diabetes, but too much of it, especially for those trying to avoid insulin or oral medication, or for those not receiving sufficient amounts of insulin to cover it, can be dangerous. It's all about balance.

The thing to keep in mind is that you can't tell from watching your friends eat if they are off their regimen or not.  If they have taken insulin and are planning for a certain amount of carbohydrates, then it's okay for their blood sugars. Still, most likely someone who eats a lot of sweet is playing with fire.



The other thing to know about diabetics is that most of us go through periods where we are 100% compliant and then we have times when it's just so hard to get through another day like that and we start letting things slide.  The psychological factor in diabetes is extremely important, and very slippery.  If you were to say something to your friend, that might have the opposite effect you were looking for.  He/she really has to be self-motivated, and all you can do is be supportive.

Good question!  



I have had diabetes for over 45 years.  The first thing about "sugar" is that refined sugar, which I think you are referring to, is a carbohydrate.



So you should understand that "sweets" are just part of what someone with diabetes needs to manage because carbohydrates are what affects blood sugar levels.  Refined sugar, like in sodas or donuts or candy just affects blood sugar faster.



The amount of carbohydrates any person needs, including people with diabetes, depends on several factors so there can't be "limits" that affect everyone.



Your friend with diabetes that eats a lot of sugar is being irresponsible, probably because of a lack of understanding of health and diabetes, unless he or she is having low blood sugar.  



Refined sugar in the amounts that the average American eats is unhealthy, diabetes or not!



Check out this article on carbohydrates, it's easy to read and is in plain English:




http://www.improving-health-and-energy.c...




Cheers,

BB

Very little.