Author: Mr. Divabetic

Max Szadek, aka Mr. Divabetic, is the executive director of Divabetic, LLC.
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Gluten Free Pumpkin Crumble Cheesecake Recipe from The Happy Diabetic

Mr. Divabetic’s gluten free cheesecake is so terrible that it gets him into deep trouble (including MURDER!) in our 5th Annual Diabetes Mystery podcast, ‘Swan Wake’.

Luckily for our listeners Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy  Diabetic’ is willing to share this recipe for a delicious tasting gluten free pumpkin crumble cheesecake!

Gluten Free Pumpkin Crumble Cheesecake Recipe by Chef Robert Lewis aka The Happy Diabetic 

What’s in it?

Cake Ingredients:

3 – 8 oz. packages cream cheese, softened 

1/3 cup SPLENDA® Brown Sugar Blend 

2 T. Splenda Naturals®

3 large eggs

1 t. almond extract

1 – 15 oz. can pumpkin

½ cup vanilla Greek yogurt 

2 T. almond flour 

1 ½ t. ground cinnamon 

½ t. ground ginger 

1 t. imitation maple flavoring 

2 t. vanilla extract 

Crumble Topping Ingredients:

1 cup almond flour

2 T. chilled butter

½ t. vanilla

4 T. SPLENDA® Brown Sugar Blend 

Let’s put it together:

Preheat oven to 350*. Coat the bottom and sides of a 9-inch spring form pan with non-stick cooking spray. Using an electric mixer, beat cream cheese, SPLENDA® Brown Sugar Blend, and Splenda Naturals® until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time. Blend in pumpkin, yogurt, almond flour, cinnamon, ground ginger, maple flavoring, and vanilla. Pour filling into prepared pan. Mix the topping ingredients by hand or in a food processor until crumbly. Sprinkle on top of cheesecake. Bake until firm, about 1 hour and 10 minutes. Remove from oven and run a butter knife around the inner edge but do not remove the pan side. Let stand at room temperature 30 minutes. Refrigerate.

Servings/Yield: 16 servings

*NUTRITION FACTS: Per Serving: Calories: 312, Total Fat: 21.68g,  Cholesterol: 77mg, Sodium: 336 mg, Total Carbohydrates: 17.71g, Dietary Fiber: 3.09g, Sugars: 4.20g, Protein: 8.13g

LISTEN NOW: Divabetic’s 5th Annual Diabetes Mystery podcast “SWAN WAKE” starring Best-Selling Author Tonya Kappes, We Are Diabetes organization founder Asha Brown, Seveda Williams, Catherine Schuller AICI, CIP, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, Mary Ann Nicolay MEd, DTR, Mama Rose Marie, Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic’ and Poet Lorraine Brooks.

Throughout the podcast we will be featuring music from Leonard Berstein’s recording of ‘Tchaikovsky: Swan Lake, Op. 20″ in celebration of the centennial of America’s greatest classical composer and conductor courtesy of SONY Music.

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Our 5th Annual Diabetes Mystery Podcast, ‘Swan Wake’ Coming in September

Join us for Divabetic’s fifth annual Diabetes Mystery podcast, ‘Swan Wake’ debuting on Tuesday, September 11, 2018, 6 – 7:30 PM, EST.

This year’s whodunnit tackles diabetes wellness issues related to  Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), smoking, drugs and medication interactions and gluten-free foods.

Here’s a quick synopsis:  When the happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic heads to the Gotham City Ballet Company’s box office to fix a mix up with his ‘Swan Lake’ tickets he’s faced with a even bigger problem – a murder. To make matters worse, one of his latest culinary creations, a gluten free cheesecake, seems to be covering the victim’s face. Even more shocking are the numerous scandals swirling around the Gotham City Ballet and it’s members that have everyone walking around on tip toes. Could our happy healthcare host’s questionable culinary skills make him an accessory to the crime or even a possible side dish? Now Mr. Divabetic with the help of his team of whip smart Diabetes Educators, a Best-Selling Mystery writer and his own nosy Italian Mom must whip up his own crime-solving recipe, and fast–before a hearty dose of intrigue and a deadly dash of danger ends his diabetes advocacy and healthy catering career once and for all.

Our Swan Wake cast features Best-Selling Author Tonya Kappes, We Are Diabetes organization founder Asha Brown, Seveda Williams, Catherine Schuller AICI, CIP, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, Mary Ann Nicolay MEd, DTR , Mama Rose Marie and Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic’ and Poet Lorraine Brooks. 

Throughout Divabetic’s fifth annual Diabetes Mystery podcast we will be featuring music from Leonard Berstein‘s recording of ‘Tchaikovsky: Swan Lake, Op. 20’ in celebration of the centennial of America’s greatest classical composer and conductor courtesy of SONY Music.

What is PCOS? Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS may have infrequent or prolonged menstrual periods or excess male hormone (androgen) levels. The ovaries may develop numerous small collections of fluid (follicles) and fail to regularly release eggs. PCOS) is associated with a high-risk of development of Type 2 diabetes. Both conditions share insulin resistance as an important pathogenic factor.

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An Amputee Saves the Day in ‘Skyscraper’

With an amputee action hero as the main character, the film, ‘Skyscraper’ is a surprising source of inspiration to a growing sector of members in the Divabetic community.

Let’s be clear, Dwayne Johnson’s character’s amputation is not related to diabetes. The character, Will, was actually inspired by the thousands of disabled US veterans and war heroes. To prepare for this role, Johnson spent a considerable amount of time not only with the world’s top skyscraper architects, but also with US war veterans who have experienced an amputation.

That said, the film’s trailer makes it clear that Will was able to get through the challenges of “amputee life” by turning to his family for support which is a powerful message. 

Lower limb amputation related to diabetes poses challenges on many levels: physical, emotional, social, spiritual, financial and may temporarily one’s ability to think clearly and maintain their diabetes self-care management.

Over half of limb amputations (about 67 percent) in the United States are attributable to diabetes and related complications. The majority of limb amputations are performed on the lower extremities.

People with diabetes can have 4 different kinds of amputations of the lower limbs, or legs. Per 1,000 people, 2.6 have an amputation of the toe, and 0.8 have an amputation of the foot. 1.6 will have a below the knee amputation, and 0.8 will have an above the knee amputation.

How people respond to their amputation depends upon their previous life experiences, their support systems, and the meaning they give to their amputation which is why seeing Dwayne Johnson’s character on the big screen use it to his advantage is so inspiring. The movie strives to show everyone that what seems like a physical setback is not enough reason to sit back and watch the bad guys win.

Many people with diabetes have coped with amputation, finding ways to be active and to participate in life the way they wish to. You can too!

LISTEN NOW: Hear what happens when Mr. Divabetic puts all of his guests inlcuding The Betes Bros, Jill Weisenberger, MS, RDN, CDE, CHWC, FAND, Poet Lorraine Brooks, Patricia Addie-Gentle and Mama Rose Marie in the HOT SEAT for Divabetic’s 8th Year Anniversary Podcast Special

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Collar Greens Wellness Day & Dog Parade Coming To Fairfax VA in September

Divabetic presents Collar Greens Wellness Day at Mosaic Central Farm Market to help families and their pets to stay healthy and happy on Sunday, September 16, 2018.

It’s our biggest diabetes outreach event of the year and it’s totally free!

Do you want the freshest, most flavorful food available in your area? In that case, consider taking regular trips to Central Farm Market. According to statistics from the Farmers Market Coalition, more than 85% of vendors at your local farmers’ market have traveled less than 50 miles to sell their products and produce. In comparison, produce found in chain supermarkets has often traveled on average more than 1,200 miles before reaching your local shelves.

Did you know that Journal of Physical Activity & Health found that dog owners are more likely to reach their fitness goals than those without canine companions?

Researchers at Michigan State University found that dog owners are 34 percent more likely to fit in 150 minutes of walking per week than non-dog owners. The study also found that owning a dog promotes health and fitness even after you take your pup for a stroll, increasing leisure-time physical activity by 69 percent.

Collar Greens Wellness Day & Dog Parade features:

A Fabulous Dog Parade hosted by Mr. Divabetic and Scent Detection Expert Debby Kay. See all breeds dressed to the nines with prize awards compliments of Mosaic Central Farm Market vendors

Healthy Food Tours: Buy foods and see how they fit with ChooseMyPlate. Visit different booths to pick up seasonal fruits and vegetables, as well as local dairy, grain and protein products so you can build your healthy plate.

A Live Cooking Demonstrations with Chef Jonathan Bardzik aka “Farm Market Hero”.  Jonathan employs stories and food to bring people together, building connections at farm markets and dinner tables, in board rooms and at conferences – everybody eats! Jonathan’s cooking demonstrations, teaching dinners, corporate and non-profit team building events and conference presentations have been enjoyed by audiences across the country.

A Family-friendly Scavenger Hunt of the Farmers Market. Our Scavenger Hunts gives people hands-on experience in learning about seasonal produce.

Poetry Readings: Diabetes Late Nite podcast cast member, Poet Lorraine Brooks reads some of her most popular diabetes empowerment poems to lift your spirits.

Free Sight & Hearing Screenings for Adults & Children (until 12 PM). Lions Club District 24A Sight and Hearing Van will host free sight (including glaucoma) and hearing screenings for all visitors (men, women, and children). They will also offer a paper screening test for diabetes and blood pressure testing.

A Service Dogs Demonstration & Talk: Have you ever wondered what it takes to teach your dog to sense your oncoming low blood sugars and actually alert you to them? Internationally known Scent Detection Expert Debby Kay has 40 years of experience as a canine professional and pioneered many firsts in canine scent work. Enjoy an overview of the basics of dog training and dog care and details how your dog can sense your blood sugars and respond in different ways depending on whether your blood sugar is high or low.

Plate Poetry Project On Display: What’s Eating You? Fine Artist Susan McCalsin’s Plate Poetry Project explores the conversations that people have with themselves while eating. Divabetic volunteers help adults and kids to express their mealtime thoughts and concern after reading aloud several of her poems.

Acoustic Blues Musician and Songwriter, Rick Franklin will be performing throughout at Diabetes Awareness Day. Rick’s musical style of blues is known as the “Piedmont” style identified with such legendary players as Blind Blake, Blind Boy Fuller and William Moore along with players and friends like “Bowling Green” John Cephas, John Jackson, and Archie Edwards.

LISTEN NOW: Hear what happens when Mr. Divabetic puts all of his guests inlcuding The Betes Bros, Jill Weisenberger, MS, RDN, CDE, CHWC, FAND, Poet Lorraine Brooks, Patricia Addie-Gentle and Mama Rose Marie in the HOT SEAT for Divabetic’s 8th Year Anniversary Podcast Special

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‘Don’t Hate My Plate’ by Poet Lorraine Brooks

are you sure that it’s ok
to eat that Chinese food?
Yes, it is, and I can say
I think you’re being rude.
I do not want to be observed
With everything I eat.
The food that I prepared and served
Is savory, and sweet.
What you don’t see is how I count
My carbs, my fats, my fruit.
To,make sure that the right amount
Is what I did compute.
So please believe that I do know
Exactly what I’m doing
And even if it doesn’t show
I’m sure what I’m pursuing.
If you see some onion rings
Or maybe eggs and bacon
Trust that I’m aware of things
And that I’m not mistaken.
Sometimes I eat pasta too
And pizza topped with cheese.
I do not need advice from you
So do not give it, please.
We people who have diabetes
Eat all kinds of food.
From oatmeal, grits and even Wheaties
And chicken, barbequed.
It’s ok to ask a question
To better comprehend.
But remember it’s just your impression.
And I do not have to defend.
So you eat yours, And I’ll eat mine
And we’ll enjoy our dinners.
Just realize where to draw the line,
And we’ll all come out winners!
LISTEN: Poet Lorraine Brooks reads ‘Don’t Hate My Plate’ on July’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast with music from Patti Austin. We’re celebrating our 8th Year Podcasting Anniversary talking about ‘I Know What You ATE Last Summer’ with Jill Weisenberger MS, RDN, CDE, CHWC, FAND, Chris Pickering co-founder of ‘The Betes Bros, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, Poet Lorraine Brooks and Mama Rose Marie.Throughout this podcast we will be featuring songs from ‘The Best Of Patti Austin’ album courtesy of SONY Music.

What words do you bring to the table? Fine Artist Susan McCaslin’s Plate Poetry Project will be on display at Mosaic Central Farm Market on Sunday, September 16, 2018 as part of Divabetic’s Collar Greens Wellness Day & Dog Parade outreach program.

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Summer Healthy Food & Drink Swaps with Jill Weisenberger, MS, RDN, CDE, CHWC, FAND

Since summer cookouts, state fairs, amusement parks and waterside food vendors offer plenty of temptation to throw off your diabetes wellness we reached out to Author Jill Weisenberger, MS, RDN, CDE, CHWC, FAND for advice on the summer foods you should try avoid, and healthier options you can feel free to enjoy.
Jill’s latest book Prediabetes: A Complete Guide provides choices, flexibility, worksheets, recipes, and much more to help you get started to a healthier you. She be talking about her new book and sharing nutrition advice on Divabetic’s 8th Anniversary podcast  (‘I Know What You ATE Last Summer’) featuring music by Patti Austin on Tuesday, July 10, 2018, 6 PM, EST,
Below are some of Jill’s healthier alternatives to the Summer’s most popular foods and drinks that we feel will silence even the most annoying members of the ‘Food Police’.
Q: It seems like the deep fryer gets the most use during the Summer judging from the menu at summer festivals, carnivals and  amusement parks. What’s your healthy alternative to fried clams?
A: Anything deep fried has to be a ‘now-and-then’ food. And if you’re going to eat a now-and-then food, it’s smart to eat it surrounded with a plate of healthful foods like fruits and vegetables, not more fried food. If I were to make the clam cakes, I’d serve them with fresh fruit, a roasted vegetable and perhaps some boiled red potatoes or zucchini noodles with Parmesan cheese. I suggest this fried clams recipe.
Q: The only thing better than watching the sunset on a beach on a Hot Summer night is to be watching it while sipping a frozen drink. Our favorite is a Strawberry Daiquiri. What do you recommend?
A: Daiquiris tend to be loaded with calories and added sugar. For a light alcoholic drink, mix a favorite wine with seltzer for a wine spritzer. If you really feel that you need something fancier, opt for a light Cape Codder: light cranberry juice and a shot of vodka, topped off with a slice of orang
Be careful with alcohol. Even small amounts loosen inhibitions, which might mean more eating.

Q: How about alternatives to two of the Summer’s most popular beverages: Sweet Tea and Lemonade?

A: I adore flavored waters, especially since they save tons of calories and added sugars.  If your water doesn’t taste crisp and refreshing, attaching a filter to your faucet or filling a filter pitcher may be all you need to brighten the taste. But if water is just plain boring, you can flavor it without sugar. Experiment with fruits, vegetables and herbs. Try any of these: Cucumber slices and mint or lavender, Orange slices or orange and lemon slice, and Lemon slices and grated gingerroot. See MORE OPTIONS  I also really enjoy making my own seltzer in my sodastream. I can flavor it with a bit of juice or fresh fruit. Another alternative is the great selection of LaCroix waters.
Q: My Dad used to pile my plate with an extra helping of his shell macaroni salad. What foods can you recommend to fill my plate with instead?
A: Add vegetables to bulk up the portion for less calories and less carbohydrates. Plus, they’ll help boost nutrition. But you don’t necessarily have to skip the macaroni or potato salad in order to stick to your meal plan. Simply add in your favorite non-starchy vegetables to dilute the pasta or potato. To dress your salad, use light mayo, mashed avocado or a vinegar based dressing. Here’s my Veggie-Packed Potato Salad (feel free to use it and the photo with attribution): https://jillweisenberger.com/resistant-starch-what-foods-have-it-and-a-recipe/
Q: Our family used to drive to Bill Wahl’s Ice Cream when I was growing up in Rochester, NY for a treat to beat the Summer Heat but now that I’m older I’m looking for a satisfying alternative to ice cream. What do you recommend?
A: I have two yogurt-based recipes on my website that are good substitutes. Both are lower in calories and added sugars than an equivalent amount of ice cream. And they’ve got the bonus of both protein and fruit!
Mixed Berry Frozen Yogurt by Author: Jill Weisenberger MS, RDN, CDE, FAND
“Yogurt is another favorite food. Some studies link yogurt to less risk of developing type 2 diabetes. And that’s something I care a lot about!, ” says Jill Weisenberger.
Ingredients
  • 1 cup frozen mixed berries or berries and pitted cherries (about 4.7 ounces)
  • 1 (5.3-ounce) container of nonfat strawberry Greek or Icelandic yogurt ( I used Siggi’s brand
Instructions
  1. Place both ingredients into a food processor or powerful blender and mix thoroughly.
  2. Transfer the contents into a freezer-safe container, and freeze for at least two hours.
  3. If desired, garnish with fresh mint leaves or chocolate shavings.
Serves: 1 cup.
Nutrition Information: Serving size: ½ cup Calories: 90 Fat: <1g Saturated fat: 0g Trans fat: 0g Carbohydrates: 15gSodium: 25mg Fiber: 2g Protein: 8g Cholesterol: 0mg
“If you plan your meals with diabetes Exchanges, count this full recipe as 1 Milk and 1 Fruit,” says Jill Weisenberger. She adds, “Researchers in Finland found that berries were associated with less risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Men who consumed the most berries were 35% less likely to develop the disease.”
Ingredients
  • 1 cup plain nonfat strained yogurt (Greek or Icelandic)
  • 1 cup frozen mixed berries or frozen mixed berries with cherries
  • 1 tablespoon sweetener of choice
  • 2 tablespoons nonfat milk or any tart juice (cranberry, pomegranate, cherry)
Instructions
  1. Place all ingredients in a blender or a container for an immersion blender. Process until smooth.
Notes: If you are not using frozen fruit, you will need to add several ice cubes to make the smoothie thick.
Nutrition Information: Serving size: 11/2 cups Calories: 205 Fat: 0g Trans fat: 0g Carbohydrates: 30g Sodium: 100mgFiber: 5g Protein: 22g Cholesterol: 0g
Q: Bill Wahl’s also serves burgers. What’s a satisfying healthier burger alternative?
A: experiment with veggie burgers for a dose of fiber and plant protein over a traditional burger heavy in unhealthful saturated fats. Something my family really enjoys is serving a turkey burger inside the center of a large portabello mushroom.
Prediabetes can be scary, but it’s also an opportunity—an opportunity to “reset,” to improve your health, and to get yourself in better shape than ever. Let ‘Prediabetes: A Complete Guide’ show you how!

Jill Weisenberger’s comprehensive guide, ‘Prediabetes: A Complete Guide’ will lead you through dozens of concrete steps you can take to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and other lifestyle-related chronic diseases. Taking an individualized approach to your lifestyle “reset,” this book will allow you to choose your own path to wellness, help you gain a greater sense of wellbeing, boost your confidence in your abilities to maintain a healthful lifestyle, and potentially even help you reverse prediabetes and avoid type 2 diabetes and other chronic illnesses. You’ll be feeling better than you have in years! Inside, you will learn to:

  • Identify your risks for developing type 2 diabetes
  • Set personalized and meaningful behavioral goals
  • Identify and build on your motivation for a lifestyle reset
  • Create positive new habits
  • Change eating habits for weight loss and greater insulin sensitivity
  • Choose wholesome foods in the supermarket and when away from home
  • Tweak your favorite recipes
  • Reduce sedentary time
  • Start or improve upon an exercise plan
  • Reduce emotional eating
  • Organize and track your progress with tools included in the book
  • Much more

Jill Weisenberger, MS, RDN, CDE, CHWC, FAND is a great resource for all things nutrition, food and diabetes. Whether she’s speaking, writing, chatting on social media, appearing on TV or working with individuals, her candid and energetic approach appeals to busy people, and her sound nutrition and fitness advice gets results. In fact, her appreciation for science and ability to translate science into actionable information earned her a place in US News & World Report’s 10 Dietitian’s You Need to Follow on Social Media.
TUNE IN: On Tuesday, July 10th, we’re talking about the ‘FOOD POLICE’ on our 8th Year Anniversary podcast featuring music by Patti Austin at 6 PM, EST. How often have you been confronted by family members, co-workers and friends on inappropriate food policing? If you get defensive they quickly turn the tables on you. They insist that you are being too sensitive, or that they are doing it out of love, or that they aren’t ganging up on you—they just all care about you so much. What can  you do? We will be discussing this topic with Poet Lorraine Brooks, Jill Weisenberger MS, RDN, CDE, CHWC, FAND, Chris Pickering co-founder of ‘The Betes Bros, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, and Mama Rose Marie.
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Sunlight, Diabetes & Your Eyes: What’s A Diva to Do?

Taking care of your diabetes health doesn’t have to cramp your style! The stunning Gucci Cruise 2019 collection proves that you can still make a fashion statement while taking care of your diabetes health!

The sun releases UV radiation which can damage our skin and eyes, particularly when the sun is strong. When the sun is out, all of us should take certain precautions to limit over exposure to the sun.

Diabetes can also raise the risk of diabetic retinopathy and so those of us with diabetes should protect our eyes from the sun to avoid any additional damage to the retina occurring.

Diabetic retinopathy is caused by damage to the blood vessels in the tissue at the back of the eye (retina). Poorly controlled blood sugar is a risk factor. Early symptoms include floaters, blurriness, dark areas of vision, and difficulty perceiving colors. Blindness can occur.

Mr. Divabetic talks about Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) on this episode of Diabetes Late Nite with Diabetic Macular Edema patient Maryanne Kass and Artist Bryce Chisholm.

Protect yourself from UV rays and your eyes will thank you! Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light increases your risk of developing cataracts.  To reduce your exposure, wear a wide brimmed hat when spending time outdoors and always keep sunglasses with UVA/UVB protection close at hand.

When picking suitable sunglasses, the National Health Services (NHS) advises picking sunglasses with a ‘CE mark’, marked as UV 400 or that provide 100% UV protection.

Statement Sunglasses

From extra-large frames, to two-toned models and couture accessories covered in crystals, sunglasses were the key statement accessory for this Gucci Cruise 2019 show, designed to be worn both night and day. Photo: Getty Images

Don’t miss Divabetic’s 8th Year Anniversary Diabetes Podcast Special with Poet Lorraine Brooks, Jill Weisenberger MS, RDN, CDE, CHWC, FAND, Chris Pickering co-founder of ‘The Betes Bros’, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, and Mama Rose Marie.  Throughout this podcast we will be featuring songs from ‘The Best Of Patti Austin’ album courtesy of SONY Music. TUNE IN on Tuesday, July 10, 2018, 6 PM, EST

Divabetic presents Collar Greens Wellness Day & Dog Parade  featuring Health Screenings, Cooking Demonstrations, Healthy Food Tours, Service Dog Demonstrations, Scavenger Hunts,  Poetry Readings, Plate Poetry Project Displays & More on Sunday, September 16, 2018 at Mosaic Central Farm Market in Fairfax, VA

 

 

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Sugar-Free Chocolate Rainbow Cupcakes by the Diabetic Pastry Chef 

Let your ‘TRUE COLORS’ shine during Pride Month without compromising your diabetes wellness.

Pride Month is when the world’s LGBT communities come together and celebrate the freedom to be themselves. The original organizers chose this month to pay homage to the Stonewall uprising in June 1969 in New York City, which helped spark the modern gay rights movement.

The happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic stops by the New York Pride March to raise awareness for diabetes in a fun, new way.

Stacey Harris aka ‘The Diabetic Pastry Chef’ offers this fabulously colorful and sugar free recipe to help you celebrate PRIDE without compromising your diabetes health!

Stacey loves to bake! While she was attending cooking school she began creating  diabetic-friendly recipes for breads, cakes and other desserts by swapping out the sugar, blending the flour, eliminating trans fats and cutting the milk carbohydrates after being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Stacey Harris has transformed more than 200 desserts into diabetic-friendly delights. Here’s one of the Diabetic Pastry Chef’s most requested recipes:

Sugar-Free Chocolate Cupcakes by the Diabetic Pastry Chef 

1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup white whole wheat flour

1 tsp salt

1 tsp baking powder

2 tsp baking soda

3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa

2 cups dry sugar substitute (such as Whey Low D Granular or Splenda for Baking)

1 cup vegetable oil

1 cup hot coffee

1 cup dairy or almond milk

2 large eggs

1 tsp pure vanilla extract

In large bowl, sift together the dry ingredients except for the sugar substitute. In bowl of mixer combine oil, coffee milk and sugar substitute and beat at medium speed with electric mixer for two minutes. Add eggs and vanilla and beat for an additional 2 minutes. Add the sifted dry ingredients to the mixing bowl and mix until well combined. Batter will be thin. Pour into paper lined muffin tin. Recipe should make 24 plus cupcakes. Bake in pre-heated oven at 325 degrees until toothpick inserted in middle of a cupcake comes out clean. Remove pan to cooling rack and cool completely. Frost.

Swerve Frosting

2 sticks, unsalted butter, room temperature

16 ounce cream cheese, room temperature

1 1/2 cups Swerve Confectioners

2 tsps pure vanilla extract

2 Tbsp heavy cream or milk

Beat together the butter and cream cheese with electric mixer on medium-high speed until fluffy for 2-3 minutes.

Reduce the speed to low and add the Swerve a cup at a time, then vanilla and cream or milk; continue mixing until smooth.

Beat for an additional 10 minutes until well combined.

The Diabetic Pastry Chef’s cookbooks are filled with information on the definition, treatment, and prevention of diabetes and include complete nutritional information (calories, fat, cholesterol, sugars, and protein) for each recipe. She uses Splendar and presents other sugar-free alternatives for pancakes, muffins, cakes, cookies, and pies. Stacey Harris shares the sweet secrets of her simple-to-use formula that will convert most any recipe into a lower-carb alternative without compromising taste or quality. Now ‘divabetics’ can enjoy Chocolate Truffle Cookies, Blueberry Tartlets, Cream Cheese Cupcakes, Coffee Bread Pudding, and hundreds of others. BUY NOW

“In The Diabetic Pastry Chef, Stacey Harris proves you can prepare and eat wonderful food and still stay well within the guidelines of food for a person with diabetes.”—Alan L. Rubin, M.D., author of Diabetes for Dummies and Diabetes Cookbook for Dummies

Instructions For Rainbow Frosting Swirl Technique for Cupcakes from My Cupcake Addiction 

If you do choose to use artificial sweeteners to help with diabetes, weight management and calorie control, do so in moderation and check ingredient lists — your intake of artificial sweeteners may be more substantial than you think.

Don’t miss Divabetic’s 8th Year Anniversary Diabetes Podcast on Tuesday, July 10, 2018, 6 – 7:30 PM, EST. We’re talking about whether or not the ‘Food Police’ are helpful or harmful to our diabetes wellness.

Guests include Poet Lorraine Brooks, Jill Weisenberger MS, RDN, CDE, CHWC, FAND, Chris Pickering co-founder of ‘The Betes Bros, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, and Mama Rose Marie.

Throughout this podcast we will be featuring songs from ‘The Best Of Patti Austin’ album courtesy of SONY Music.

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Totally Unrealistic Healthy Food & Drink Swaps for Summer

Instead of a frozen strawberry daiquiri, drink water!

Most of us would sooner roll our eyes than adhere to this helpful, overzealous healthy eating advice. But does that mean we’re not taking our diabetes seriously? Or are we a bad person? 

Although water is the obvious healthier option, the two choices aren’t even comparable which doesn’t seem to bother our well-intentioned friends, co-workers and family members aka ‘The Food Police’. They like to share stringent suggestions while strictly adhering to a ‘do as I say, not as I do’ code of conduct at family gatherings or celebrations. But our their good intentions helpful or hurtful?

The ‘Food Police’ is the topic of July’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast entitled ‘I Know What You Ate Last Summer’ on Tuesday, July 12, 2018, 6 PM, EST. Those well meaning friends, family members and co-workers in your life who like to imply you’re good or bad for choosing a certain food. Their ‘helpfulness’ can lead to guilt and shame over food choices and make you loathe your diabetes self-care. Guests include Poet Lorraine Brooks, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, Jill Weisenberger MS, RDN, CDE, CHWC, FAND, Chris Pickering co-founder of ‘The Betes Bros’ Foundation, and Mama Rose Marie.

Confused about Food?

If you are, you’re not alone. When you go online to seek advice you’ll find a dozen different ideas on the right way to eat to manage your blood sugars and they all contradict each other. It is very confusing, but it will all fall into place eventually, especially if you connect with a Registered Dietitian(RD) who’s a Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE). You can find such a person at EatRight.org.

A Registered Dietitian (RD) can help you to create a personalized nutrition care plan to help manage your blood sugar levels throughout the day, prevent further health complications, and feel your best,

Have you got a blood glucose meter? If not, we recommend that you get one. You can use it to test out your meals by check before you eat then again 2 hours after your first bite. The difference in the readings will show you how that meal affected your blood sugar levels. You may have some shocks, and you may have some nice surprises, but it is the only way to learn. Our bodies are all different. We are all on different (or no) medications, at different stages of the disease, so what is right for one may not be right for another.

What’s a healthy alternative to a Frozen Strawberry Daiquiri?

1. Make your own Frozen Strawberry Daiquiri at home. Most home-cooked meals have less calories, sugar, and fat than meals out and the same holds true for stay at home cocktails. The main ingredients are frozen strawberries, lime juice, lemon juice and a bit of sugar or honey. And, if you opt for alcohol you can decide how much rum to use. Don’t forget that a frozen strawberry daiquiri, made from strawberry schnapps, rum, lime juice, sugar and strawberries, contains about 220 calories and 34 grams of carbohydrates. If you’re trying to lose weight than drinking a few of these isn’t the best option.

2. Opt for a nonalcoholic version. You won’t save many calories but you will cut down on the added sugars from the liqueurs.

3. Alternate between a frozen strawberry daiquiri and a glass of water. As an added bonus, drinking plenty of water at the bar will likely reduce the chance of waking up with a hangover.

Keep in mind, while moderate amounts of alcohol may cause blood sugar to rise, excess alcohol can actually decrease your blood sugar level — sometimes causing it to drop into dangerous levels, especially for people with type 1 diabetes. Alcohol can interfere with the positive effects of oral diabetes medicines or insulin.

What’s moderate alcohol consumption?

Moderate alcohol consumption is considered 2 drinks/day for men; 1 for women. One drink contains 14 grams of alcohol meaning: one 12 oz beer (5% alcohol), one 5 oz glass of wine (12%) or one 1.5 oz of hard liquor (40% or 80 proof). It does appear that alcohol itself, and not the source, is responsible for the benefits.

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‘Je ne regrette rien’ by Poet Lorraine Brooks

Je ne regrette rien by Lorraine Brooks 
The where and the why and the when.

If I have a need that is pressing
I never find that it’s distressing.
Like pricking my finger for testing
Or foods that I may be ingesting.

I do not regret when they stare…
Or that I receive Medicare.
I take stock of all of my needs
And all that I need to proceed.

Why regret what makes me feel better?
Maybe its ME that’s the trend-setter!
I spend no time feeling regret.
Or that some might think me “heavy set”.

Life is too short for that worry.
So I’ll order that Indian curry.
As long as I’m smart and stay mindful
There’s no reason not to be prideful.

Pack up your cares and remorse.
And stay on your self-caring course.
Kick that regret to the curb.
And start living the life you deserve.

LISTEN NOW: Poet Lorraine Brooks reads her poem, ‘Je ne regrette rien’ on June’s Diabetes Late Nite. We’re talking about having ‘NO REGRETS’  with musical inspiration from Edith Piaf.

We all have regrets. It is part of human nature. However, hanging onto regrets takes up space and keeps us from enjoying the present moment. The stress factor plays havoc on the cells of the body. It affects our blood pressure, energy levels, hormones and immune response. It also affects the mind. Our thinking process becomes clouded, mistakes are made and poor choices lead to increased stress. All of these things can affect our diabetes wellness. For the things we regret doing, if we look carefully enough, we will see that they hold a lesson and if we learn from our regrets then the regret has served us well.

Born in Paris in 1915, Edith Piaf become the voice of France. She began her singing career on the streets, and her only musical apprenticeship came from listening to singers on the capital’s popular radio stations. But Piaf’s ability to sing from the heart, as very few can, soon enchanted  audiences beyond Paris. Her songs touch one’s heart and spirit, even if one cannot understand the words themselves.

Edith Piaf is helping us sing your praises! We applaud the determination, persistence and efforts to stay healthy and upbeat about your daily self-care. Together, we are changing the way people learn to live with diabetes.

Guests include Poet Lorraine Brooks, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, Best-Selling Author and Weight Loss Expert, Dr. Lori Shemek PhD, Dr. Andrea Chisholm OBGYN, Cindy Lou from the ‘Diabetes What To Know’ community, and Mama Rose Marie.

Throughout this podcast we will be featuring music from ‘EDITH PIAF TOP 40’ album courtesy of SONY Music

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