As many of you may know I am a ‘PWD Type 1’ (person living with type 1 diabetes), I have been living type 1 diabetes since 2014. I have been a diabetic since 2005. Being a diabetic is hard since you must be on top of your disease at all times. You don’t get a day off. I always have to check my blood sugars and carry my diabetes kit with me at all times to make sure that I’m prepared for anything. For example, I carry test strips, meter, alcohol swabs, lancet device, lancets, insulin – fast acting. Insulin – long acting ( in case I don’t get back home in time for my afternoon dose or since I’m at work before my morning dose), pen needles, glucose for lows, snacks, ice pack for summer timein my purse before I head out the door.
Managing my diabetes also means dealing stress. Stress is probably the hardest thing for me to manage! There’s always something to stress out about in daily life. I mean how do you go through life stress free? Daily struggles are always there from family and kids to jobs and loads of bills that must be paid. The list goes on and on. I get stressed just thinking about ‘stress’, LOL.
On June 16, 2017, I was informed by my employer that my job of 8 years had been eliminated; this meant that I would lose my benefits on June 30th. This rocked my world! What was I going to do? I needed my meds, supplies and lifesaving insulin. Over the next few weeks my husband and I sat down and tried to decide what to do. We had no choice except to put me on his health insurance. This meant that we’d lose a good chuck of his check since he works for a small company. But what else could we do? Talk about stress! My blood sugars during those weeks and the following months have been out of control. Some mornings I’ve woken up with sugars over 250 and I’ve had to take more insulin to correct. This is, of course, all due to stress.
People just don’t realize what a diabetic goes through. The highs/lows and everything in between are very tough on the body, spirit and family unit. I have tried to remain positive but it is very hard. I have been to two job interviews. I hope that one of them will pay off. In the meantime, I wake up every day and tell myself that I am priceless. That any employer will be glad to get me. When I leave the house I make sure to fix my hair and put on my makeup. I grab a different color of lipstick and tell myself that today I will be in control.
I guess I said all of this to just let someone out there struggling with depression, stress, uncontrolled sugars or whatever you are going through, YOU ARE NOT ALONE! We all face different things and that diabetes is hard. But remember this, God only gives his toughest battles to his strongest warriors! And believe me if you are diabetic, you are a warrior! Whatever seen or unseen battle you are fighting you are not alone.
Pick yourself up, straighten your crown, and stomp that runway called life.
*Editor’s Note: Eugenia Wells-Bassillio is the founder of the ‘Diabetic Divas Unite’ Facebook page. She also recently started working at Baptist Hospital in Oxford, MS
Share your experience living with diabetes on the Divabetic blog. E-mail Max Szadek at: mrdivabetic@gmail.com
Tune in to Divabetic’s 4th Annual Diabetes Mystery podcast, ‘Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’ and learn how to manage your diabetes like a detective! LISTEN NOW
Don’t miss October’s Diabetes Late Nite with music by Old Dominion on Tuesday, October 10, 2017. Guests include Poet Lorraine Brooks, the Charlie’s Angels of Outreach, Dr. Andrea Chisholm, Dr. Michele Summers Colon, and Mama Rose Marie.
I blame MaryAnn, who whipped up endless coconut cream pies for Gilligan on TV, and the chorus of Rupert Holmes’ hit song, Escape (The Pina Colada song) for why I associate ‘coconuts’ with ‘beaches’. That’s probably why I reached out to my friend and colleague Stacey Harris aka ‘The Diabetic Pastry Chef’for a dessert recipe featuring coconuts to help celebrate the debut of our 4th Annual Diabetes Mystery podcast, ‘Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’. After all, the setting of this year’s mystery is the Mermaid Parade in Coney Island, NY!!
When Stacey Harris was studying to become a pastry chef, she was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Rather than give up her chosen profession, she began creating more diabetic-friendly desserts. By using blended flours and a combination of sugar and sugar substitutes, reducing milk carbohydrates, and eliminating trans fats, Stacey Harris has transformed more than 200 desserts into diabetic-friendly delights.
Here’s Stacey Harris’ fabulous Coney Island caper inspired recipe for you and your family to enjoy!
2 c. milk, scalded 2 eggs, slightly beaten 1/2 c. SPLENDA® Naturals 2 tsp. coconut extract dash nutmeg
Directions:
Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
In large bowl, beat eggs, add SPLENDA® Naturals, coconut extract and nutmeg; blend in hot milk.
Pour into small casserole dish and bake for 1 hour.
Garnish:
Serve with whipped cream sprinkled with a little toasted coconut, a fresh orange slice or garnish of your choice and enjoy!
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
USA Today Best-Selling Author, Tonya Kappes, We Are Diabetes organization founder, Asha Brown, Divabetic Image & Style Advisor, Catherine Schuller, Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic’, Seveda Williams, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, MaryAnn Horst Nicolay MEd, DTR, Mama Rose Marie and Poet Lorraine Brooks help the fruit suit clad sleuth, Mr. Divabetic in the seaside adventure, ‘Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’.
Diabetes advocate turned reluctant amateur sleuth, Mr. Divabeticfinally takes the plunge and ventures into a new career as a healthy caterer. With the help of his co-workers and nosy Italian mother, he heads for Coney Island to cater his first party for his former swim coach, Ted Rockow. But this nautical soiree quickly capsizes when the guest of honor is found sleeping with the fishes.
What it an accident or foul play?
Now Mr. Divabetic’s grilling a sequined Real Estate Agent, ex-lifeguard Lothario and avoluptuous Dance Instructor, all intent on keeping their secrets buried deep within the sand. Can Mr. Divabetic prove Coach’s death was a murder, not an accident? Or will he end up floating out to sea?
Will he sink or swim? Tune in to find out if he can solve the murder of his former swim coach with the help of his friends and a kooky crudite-obsessed fortune teller. Along the way to revealing the identity of the murderer he uncovers Summertime diabetes self-care tips.
This year’s mystery podcast features music from the original cast recording of ‘Gypsy’ courtesy of SONY Music. LISTEN NOW
The fabulous Soara-Joye Ross doesn’t let diabetes dim her dazzle!
She’s living with type 1 diabetes and currently starring as R & B singer, LaVern Baker in the hit musical drama, ‘Rock and Roll Man: The Alan Freed Story’ at Bucks County Playhouse.
Delores ‘LaVern’ Baker (November 11, 1929 – March 10, 1997) was an American rhythm-and-blues singer who had several hit records on the pop chart in the 1950s and early 1960s? Her most successful records were “Tweedle Dee” (1955), “Jim Dandy” (1956), and “I Cried a Tear” (1958). She was among the first eight recipients of the Pioneer Award from the Rhythm and Blues Foundation and became the second female solo artist inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, following Aretha Franklin in 1987.
Baker told the audience atthe Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, “Regardless of how old you are when you get this, it’s still good, baby.”
LaVern Baker had a stroke in the early 1990’s, and complications from type 2 diabetes forced her to have her legs amputated in 1995. But she returned to performing in 1996 with an undiminished voice and an indomitable spirit.
“Rock and Roll Man: The Alan Freed Story” is being produced at the Playhouse by Robyn Goodman, Alexander Fraser, Stephen Kocis, Josh Fiedler in association with Sharon A. Carr and Caiola Productions.
This high energy musical uncovers the true story of Alan Freed — the Father of Rock and Roll. It’s the 1950s and a cocky young DJ discovers the music that all America wants to hear — except no radio station will play it. Pursued by the notorious J. Edgar Hoover for promoting this unwholesome genre, Alan perseveres — unearthing the sound of a new generation through pure guts, grit, and determination. Featuring original songs and classic tunes by legends like Little Richard, Chuck Berry and Jerry Lee Lewis, this world premiere will have you rocking around the clock!BUY TICKETS
Recently Soara-Joye Ross started wearing an insulin pump that she named “Black Panther” after a stint performing in the Arkansas Repertory Theatre’s production of ‘Sister Act’. Soara-Joye says her insulin delivery device aka ‘the pump’ has been a godsend for her managing her diabetes especially with such a rigorous performance schedule.
“With the insulin pump I can suspend my insulin delivery which is extremely helpful if I’m constantly on stage like I was when I was performing as Deloris Van Cartier ( in the musical, ‘Sister Act’),” she says.
Enjoy this episode of Diabetes Late Nite with guest, Soara-Joye Ross and hear how she manages her type 1 diabetes like a diva! LISTEN NOW
MAKEOVER YOUR DIABETES! Are you curious about why amputations occur? Learn what you need to do if you do have a diabetic foot ulcer so that it heals and doesn’t progress to amputation from the Diabetes Council. READ MORE
All of sudden the day after Monday, Tuesday, doesn’t seem so bad.I think ‘tacos’ might be to blame for why Tuesdays have become a highpoint in our culinary week. This popular culinary trend, Taco Tuesdays,took off in Southern California and quickly spread to many big cities across the nation.Taco Tuesday is similar to Happy Hour in that restaurants vary in their participation, hours, and specials offered.
Taco Tuesdays can be part of a healthy diet plan, if done right.
I asked my friend,Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic’ to share a few of his favorite healthy fish taco recipes on this blog.It’s all part of the preparations for our biggest podcast event of the year, Mister Divabetic Mystery podcast: ‘Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’ on Tuesday, September 12, 2017, 6 PM, EST.
Since this year’s zany adventure takes place in New York City’s historic seashore, Coney Island we’re spotlighting seafood dishes.
Don’t let diabetes dim your DAZZLE! Get in the spirt and enjoy the first of several fish taco recipes,Garlic Rubbed Salmon Tacos, from The Happy Diabetic.It’s sure to win over your family and friends at your next party!
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.Mix the garlic, Splenda and olive oil. Rub the salmon and let stand for 5 minutes.
Wrap the tortillas in foil and bake for about 8 minutes, until they are softened and heated through.
Heat a large pan with oil or cook on the grill. Cook the salmon over medium heat until nicely browned and just cooked through, about 3 -5 minutes per side.
Gently break each piece of salmon in half. Spread the mashed avocado on the warm tortillas and top with the salmon, cabbage, and Drizzle each taco with fresh lime serve.
ChefRobert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic’ has made it his mission to not only to be an ambassador of positivity for himself and his family (which includes 3 children and 6 grandchildren) but to also create amazing things in the kitchen for people of all walks of life to enjoy.
In a recent profile on the Everyday Diabetes website, Chef Robert Lewis admitted that he wasn’t going to let his diagnosis with Type 2 Diabetes get him down.
“When I started this personal journey as a type 2 in 1998, I determined right then and there that diabetes was not going to change my positive outlook on life! I have always looked for ways to bring joy to others,” says Chef Robert Lewis. “ As The Happy Diabetic, I work to bring hope as well as happy, healthy lifestyle strategies to people living with diabetes! Putting a positive spin on things will always help us get through the tough times together!”
Now The Happy Diabetic’s a man on a mission! When he’s not working as a director of training for 60 restaurants in the Midwest, he’straveling around the country as a keynote speaker for Taking Control of Your Diabetes and/or hosting his own podcast, ‘The Happy Diabetic Kitchen Podcast’! Read more about Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic’ in Diabetes Health Monitor magazine.
What’s Trending: Thousands ofFarmed Salmon Accidentally Released into Seas
Thousands of farmed Atlantic salmon were accidentally released into the waters between Anacortes and the San Juan Islands, and officials are asking people to catch as many as possible. Tribal fishers, concerned about native salmon populations, call the accident “a devastation.” READ MORE
Don’t Miss The Newest Mister Divabetic Mystery podcast entitled ‘Gypsies, Tramps and Peas’ on Tuesday, September 12, 2017, 6 PM, EST.
Diabetes advocate turned reluctant amateur sleuth, Mr. Divabetic finally takes the plunge and ventures into a new career as a healthy caterer. With the help of his co-workers and nosy Italian mother, he heads for Coney Island to cater his first party aboard a yacht for his former swim coach, Ted Rockow. But his nautical soiree quickly capsizes when the guest of honor is found swimming with the fishes. What it an accident or foul play? Now Mr. Divabetic’s grilling Burlesque dancers, a lifeguard lothario and some sequined mermaids, all intent on keeping their secrets buried deep within the sand. Can Mr. Divabetic prove Coach’s death was a murder, not an accident? Or will he end up floating out to sea?
Will he sink or swim? Tune in to find out if he can solve the murder of his former swim coach with the help of his friends, some sassy mermaids and a cooky fortune teller. Along the way to revealing the identity of the murderer he uncovers expert tips for diabetes self-care during the Summer months.
USA Today Best-Selling Author, Tonya Kappes, Asha Brown, Catherine Schuller, Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic’, Seveda Williams, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, MaryAnn Horst Nicolay, Mama Rose Marie and Poet Lorraine Brooks help the fruit suit clad sleuth in this seaside adventure. Healthy delicious recipes provided by Chef Robert Lewis and Stacey Harris aka ‘The Diabetic Pastry Chef’.
This year’s mystery podcast features music from the original cast recording of ‘Gypsy’ courtesy of SONY Music.
Join the show! Get the full script for ‘Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’ and read along as our cast performs. Please e-mail: mrdvabetic@gmail.com
Check out the latest headlines in diabetes, diabetes self-management, healthy lifestyles and diva entertainment that we think you should know about.
Collapse at Salmon Farm Renews Debate About Fish Farming
Thousands of farmed Atlantic salmon were accidentally released into the waters between Anacortes and the San Juan Islands, and officials are asking people to catch as many as possible. Tribal fishers, concerned about native salmon populations, call the accident “a devastation.” READ MORE
Fatherhood After 40? It’s Becoming A Lot More Common
In the U.S., the average age a woman gives birth to her first child has been rising. And, a study published Thursday in Human Reproduction shows dads are getting older, too.
Of the roughly 4 million births each year in the U.S., about 9 percent of fathers are over 40. And “about 40,000 newborns have a father over the age of 50,” says Michael Eisenberg, an assistant professor of urology at Stanford University Medical Center and the senior author of the study. “This surprised me,” Eisenberg told us. READ MORE
Favorite Cookbooks: The Diabetes Comfort Food Diet by Laura Cipullo RD CDE and the editors of Prevention magazine
For those readers who are looking to simply cut back on sugar (and carbs) this book will provide many recipes that sound familiar (like bread pudding) but have been modified to fit a healthier lifestyle. Cipullo offers tips on adjusting one’s approach to meals. Studying her recipes and applying her techniques to your own recipes will help turn your own recipe box into a collection of things to make that will be tasty, familiar and give you the comfort of knowing that they are better for you with the changes made.READ MORE
How Diabetes Affects Your Bones
Bone fractures aren’t commonly discussed as a diabetes-related complication, but over the past decade, researchers and clinicians have increasingly realized that diabetes may weaken bones, upping the risk for break. READ MORE
11-year-old Marches Cross-Country for Diabetes Cure
Noah Barnes is walking close to a marathon-every day to bring an end to Type 1 Diabetes. He and his father are making their way from Key West, Florida, crossing the country on a diagonal, in the hopes of ending up in Blaine, Washington. READ MORE
Hurricane Harvey + Diabetes – Here’s How to Get What You Need and Here’s How to Give Whatever Resources You Can
Hurricane Harvey has left behind massive flooding rendering the city and surrounding areas nearly impassable. Our thoughts go out to those affected by the storm, which can really disrupt diabetes care – especially for those using insulin.
The Red Cross, FEMA, JDRF, the American Diabetes Association (ADA), and other organizations are working to provide help to people in the diabetes community affected by this crisis. Here are resources on accessing diabetes care supplies and shelters as well as ways you can help. READ MORE
Remembering Princess Diana on the 20th Anniversary of Her Death
It may be an exaggeration to say that Princess Diana saved the monarchy. But it’s still fair to say the wildly popular “people’s princess” did buy the royal family some time.
In her short life, she rattled the emotionally reserved monarchy. She shook the hands of AIDS patients. She spilled the beans on her soap opera marriage and talked to the press about her battle with bulimia. She pursued — and was pursued by — the celebrity-obsessed media. She was one of the most famous people in the world, and the British public loved her. They still do.
“She’s still the people’s princess,” ran a front-page headline in the Sun on Thursday. READ MORE
Anwar Carrots Wants to Be the Martha Stewart of Street Wear
Mr. Carrots was the creative force behind Peas & Carrots International, a street wear brand in Los Angeles that he founded with his friends Joshton Peas and Casey Veggies, a breakout rapper. The label, known for its pop graphic T-shirts, developed a cult following. It garnered glowing coverage on lifestyle websites like Complex (a “coolest L.A.” brand), Hypebeast (“international phenomenon”) and XXL (“spreading like wildfire”). In 2014, after disagreements with one of his partners, Mr. Carrots left to start his own label, Carrots by Anwar Carrots.READ MORE
Ford’s Robocar Delivers Pizza in the Name of Science
Ford is putting one of its autonomous vehicles to good use: delivering pizza in Ann Arbor, Michigan. For the next few weeks, randomly selected Domino’s customers will get the option to have their pie brought over by a modified Ford Fusion Hybrid, complete with the roof mounted whirring “coffee can” sensors and plenty of “research vehicle” stickers.. READ MORE
Don’t Miss The Newest Mister Divabetic Mystery podcast entitled ‘Gypsies, Tramps and Peas’ on Tuesday, September 12, 2017, 6 PM, EST.
Diabetes advocate turned reluctant amateur sleuth, Mr. Divabetic finally takes the plunge and ventures into a new career as a healthy caterer. With the help of his co-workers and nosy Italian mother, he heads for Coney Island to cater his first party aboard a yacht for his former swim coach, Ted Rockow. But his nautical soiree quickly capsizes when the guest of honor is found swimming with the fishes. What it an accident or foul play? Now Mr. Divabetic’s grilling Burlesque dancers, a lifeguard lothario and some sequined mermaids, all intent on keeping their secrets buried deep within the sand. Can Mr. Divabetic prove Coach’s death was a murder, not an accident? Or will he end up floating out to sea?
Will he sink or swim? Tune in to find out if he can solve the murder of his former swim coach with the help of his friends, some sassy mermaids and a cooky fortune teller. Along the way to revealing the identity of the murderer he uncovers expert tips for diabetes self-care during the Summer months.
USA Today Best-Selling Author, Tonya Kappes, Asha Brown, Catherine Schuller, Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic’, Seveda Williams, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, MaryAnn Horst Nicolay, Mama Rose Marie and Poet Lorraine Brooks help the fruit suit clad sleuth in this seaside adventure. Healthy delicious recipes provided by Chef Robert Lewis and Stacey Harris aka ‘The Diabetic Pastry Chef’.
This year’s mystery podcast features music from the original cast recording of ‘Gypsy’ courtesy of SONY Music.
Join the show! Get the full script for ‘Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’ and read along as our cast performs. Please e-mail: mrdvabetic@gmail.com
Don’t let the end of Summer get you down, get DIVA! Our Divabetic Go Ginger! Labor Day Celebration spotlights different ‘ginger’ recipes by our good friend, Chef Ward Alper aka ‘The Decadent Diabetic’ to help put a kick in your 3 day weekend.
This fabulous ginger side dish recipe is inspired by one our favorite redheads, the iconic Lucille Ball. Her TV show, “I Love Lucy” pretty much invented the TV sitcom as we know it.
Did you know that before the show’s 1951 debut, sitcoms on the new medium of television were essentially filmed half-hour plays, with fairly static cameras and minimalist sets?
But on “I Love Lucy” there were three cameras shooting simultaneously from different angles, on 35mm film, so that scenes could be performed in sequence, just once, with shots and reaction shots edited together later.
‘Lucy Ricardo’ was kind of a comedic superheroine, capable of doing just about anything, but only for a few minutes, before her efforts inevitably went catastrophically awry. Behind the camera, Lucille Ball was a heroine, too, blazing a path for TV performers and producers for which she’s never received proper credit. Both fiery redheads — the restless housewife and the woman who created her — managed to create an indestructible sitcom; not even colorization can mar it. READ MORE
The Decadent Diabetic shares this fabulous ginger inspired recipe, “For Lucy the queen of carrot tops spicy with a nutty crunch!”
The Decadent Diabetic’s Orange/Ginger Glazed Carrots with Pecans Recipe
INGREDIENTS
Two 1 cup servings
Net carbohydrates:less than 11 grams per serving
Ingredients
6medium carrots, peeled and sliced on an angle
3 -TBSP. butter
4 ounces TROP 50 low sugar orange juice
3/4 cup water
1 TBSP. Sugar alternative of choice
small pinch of salt
½ -tsp. ground cinnamon
½ tsp. ground ginger
1/3 cup toasted pecan halves
HOW TO PREPARE THE RECIPE:
Melt butter in a sauce pan. Cook carrots in the butter of high heat for 1 minute. Add TROP 50, water, cinnamon, ginger, salt, and sugar alternative. Continue cooking over medium high heat until all the liquid is evaporated, about 10-15 minutes.
Garnish with the pecans for extra spark of flavor and crunch.
Summer lasts a little longer with a tropical flower centerpiece (see above) for Divabetic Labor Day-inspired party and is surprisingly simple to create. An easy trick of the trade for centerpieces is to use multiples of like objects, vases or even lanterns and repeat- either down a long table or clustered symmetrically in the center of a table. The consistency creates a bold visual impact. To add a little more reflection and drama to the basic neutral table cloth place square mirror tiles to cover the tabletop (An easy to remove self adhesive helped keep the mirrors secure to the tablecloth).
How Are Baby Carrots Made?
The carrots now used to make “baby-cut carrots” are typically ones that have been specially bred to contain more sugar than their standard-sized cousins, because this extra sweetness appeals more strongly to children according to Snopes.com. Likewise, their bright orange color has also been bred into them, as has the evenness of that color all the way through the root. READ MORE
Diabetes advocate turned reluctant amateur sleuth, Mr. Divabetic finally takes the plunge and ventures into a new career as a healthy caterer. With the help of his co-workers and nosy Italian mother, he heads for Coney Island to cater his first party aboard a yacht for his former swim coach, Ted Rockow. But his nautical soiree quickly capsizes when the guest of honor is found swimming with the fishes. What it an accident or foul play? Now Mr. Divabetic’s grilling Burlesque dancers, a lifeguard lothario and some sequined mermaids, all intent on keeping their secrets buried deep within the sand. Can Mr. Divabetic prove Coach’s death was a murder, not an accident? Or will he end up floating out to sea?
Will he sink or swim? Tune in to find out if he can solve the murder of his former swim coach with the help of his friends, some sassy mermaids and a cooky fortune teller. Along the way to revealing the identity of the murderer he uncovers expert tips for diabetes self-care during the Summer months.
USA Today Best-Selling Author, Tonya Kappes, Asha Brown, Catherine Schuller, Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic’, Seveda Williams, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, MaryAnn Horst Nicolay, Mama Rose Marie and Poet Lorraine Brooks help the fruit suit clad sleuth in this seaside adventure. Healthy delicious recipes provided by Chef Robert Lewis and Stacey Harris aka ‘The Diabetic Pastry Chef’.
This year’s mystery podcast features music from the original cast recording of ‘Gypsy’ courtesy of SONY Music.
Join the show! Get the full script for ‘Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’ and read along as our cast performs. Please e-mail: mrdvabetic@gmail.com
Don’t let the end of Summer get you down, get DIVA! Our Divabetic Go Ginger! Labor Day Celebration spotlights different recipes featuring ginger by Chef Ward Alper aka ‘The Decadent Diabetic’s to help put a kick in your 3 day weekend.
Did you know that ginger is among the healthiest (and most delicious) spices on the planet? It is loaded with nutrients and bioactive compounds that have powerful benefits for your body and brain.
Ginger has a long history of use as a nausea remedy for seasickness and morning sickness related to pregnancy. According to a review of 12 studies that included a total of 1,278 pregnant women, 1.1-1.5 grams of ginger can significantly reduce symptoms of nausea.
Now, it looks like the spice can lower blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes, according to a new study by researchers from Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences in Yazd, Iran.
“Ginger can increase the effects of blood thinners, so if you’re taking these drugs, don’t take ginger,” advises Martha Howard, MD, medical director of Wellness Associates of Chicago. READ MORE Make sure to tell your doctor that you’re adding ginger to your regimen, and monitor your blood sugar levels regularly.
Our good friend, Chef Ward Alper aka ‘the Decadent Diabetic’who is living with type 2 diabetes, helps us craft a menu with a redheaded spin for our Divabetic Labor Day Celebration. We’re partnering his recipes with our favorite red heads starting with Tina Louise who played ‘Ginger’ on the 1960’s TV series “Gilligan’s Island.” .
Va va voom! Tina Louise, aka, Ginger Grant While the show didn’t receive accolades at the time and was viewed by critics as a silly, slapstick comedy, it became a cultural icon which is still in syndication today.
Tina caught the eye of Hollywood execs and after actress and sex symbol, Jayne Mansfield turned down the role of the ‘movie star’ on a sitcom. Although probably the least prestigious of jobs, playing Ginger is what Tina Louise is best known for – like it or not. The role did make Louise a pop icon of the era, and in 2005 an episode of TV Land Top Ten ranked her as second only to Heather Locklear as the greatest of television’s all-time sex symbols.
She has a bevy of acting credentials including Broadway, television and movies, and also studied at some of the most prestigious acting schools including the Actors Studio and with the one and only Lee Strasberg. She has starred in movies with the likes of Brad Pitt, Lee Marvin, Katherine Ross and Miou-Miou, to name a few. She has continued to expand her wings including voiceovers for a gaming machine (MegaJackpot product), recorded an album (“It’s Time for Tina”), and has written several books. Wow, an impressive woman!
The question “Ginger or Mary Ann?” is regarded to be a classic pop-psychological question when given to American men of a certain age as an insight into their characters, or at least their desires as regarding certain female stereotypes.
Chef Ward thinks his Grilled Tuna with Ginger would be the perfect dish for Ginger Grant to prepare on the beach for the Professor!
Grilled Tuna With Ginger
The Decadent Diabetic’s Grilled Tuna with Ginger
Carbohydrates per serving 0g.
Chefs Note: This is a fast and simple recipe for tuna. It works equally well with frozen(and defrosted) tuna as it does with “fresh” tuna. It also works well with swordfish. I like MY fish (heresy, I know) on the drier side but I have included instructions for a rare preparation as well.
INGREDIENTS
1 4-5 ounce piece of the best tuna (sushi grade) you can find
pepper to taste
Zest of ½ lemon
2 tsp. Soy sauce
½ tsp. garlic, grated or minced
½ tsp. fresh dill, chopped
½ tsp. fresh parsley, chopped
½ tsp. ground ginger
1tsp. olive oil
Juice of ½ lemon
HOW TO PREPARE THE RECIPE:
Preheat Grill
Combine all of the ingredients EXCEPT the lemon juice and coat the piece of tuna. Refrigerate for 30 minutes or up to 4 hours (this can be done on a still frozen piece of tuna as it defrosts). Add the lemon juice just before cooking.
Heat the grill to medium high. Pat the tuna dry and place tuna steak onto the grill and cook on each side.
For rare- Cook on the grill 3 minutes per side
For medium- Cook on the grill for 4 minutes per side
For medium well- Cook on the grill for 4-5 minutes per side
Cook the marinade in a skillet until it starts to boil. Spoon over the fish.
Go Ginger! Insulated Diabetes Insulin Pen Pouch / Case by TraceyMichell
A fun and attractive new design to hold your insulin pens, needles and contact details safe and secure. This is an insulated fold over pouch secured with velcro. Inside there is plenty of room to store your needles in a pretty Chicken or the Egg pocket also secured with velcro. There is storage for two pens and a plastic wallet to slip in your ID details. Complete with a carabiner clip to attach to your belt/bag this pouch is practical, contemporary and fashionable. Length approximately 18cm. Matching Blood Test Kit also available. BUY NOW
Why Can’t You Wear White After Labor Day?
While no one is completely sure exactly when or why this fashion rule came into effect, our best guess is that it had to do with snobbery in the late 1800s and early 1900s. By the 1880s, in order to tell who was acceptable and who wasn’t, the women who were already “in” felt it necessary to create dozens of fashion rules that everyone in the know had to follow. That way, if a woman showed up at the opera in a dress that cost more than most Americans made in a year, but it had the wrong sleeve length, other women would know not to give her the time of day. READ MORE
Take care of yourself. Whether you’re taking a vacation, getting a massage or just generally relaxing, your slower times give you a (likely) rare opportunity to address your mental and physical help. Take advantage of it to be recharged for the time when sales are booming, or when you need to take care of the next couple of things on the list.
Heath Headlines: A new study from the British Journal of Cancer revealed that natural red-headed men are 54 percent less likely to develop prostate cancer. Researchers think it might have to do with the way genes that dictate hair pigmentation also influence tumor development.
Diabetes advocate turned reluctant amateur sleuth, Mr. Divabetic finally takes the plunge and ventures into a new career as a healthy caterer. With the help of his co-workers and nosy Italian mother, he heads for Coney Island to cater his first party aboard a yacht for his former swim coach, Ted Rockow. But his nautical soiree quickly capsizes when the guest of honor is found swimming with the fishes. What it an accident or foul play? Now Mr. Divabetic’s grilling Burlesque dancers, a lifeguard lothario and some sequined mermaids, all intent on keeping their secrets buried deep within the sand. Can Mr. Divabetic prove Coach’s death was a murder, not an accident? Or will he end up floating out to sea?
Will he sink or swim? Tune in to find out if he can solve the murder of his former swim coach with the help of his friends, some sassy mermaids and a cooky fortune teller. Along the way to revealing the identity of the murderer he uncovers expert tips for diabetes self-care during the Summer months.
USA Today Best-Selling Author, Tonya Kappes, Asha Brown, Catherine Schuller, Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic’, Seveda Williams, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, MaryAnn Horst Nicolay, Mama Rose Marie and Poet Lorraine Brooks help the fruit suit clad sleuth in this seaside adventure. Healthy delicious recipes provided by Chef Robert Lewis and Stacey Harris aka ‘The Diabetic Pastry Chef’.
This year’s mystery podcast features music from the original cast recording of ‘Gypsy’ courtesy of SONY Music.
Join the show! Get the full script for ‘Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’ and read along as our cast performs. Please e-mail: mrdvabetic@gmail.com
All of sudden the day after Monday,Tuesday, doesn’t seem so bad.I think ‘tacos’ might be to blame for why Tuesdays have become a highpoint in our culinary week. This popular culinary trend, Taco Tuesdays, took off in Southern California and quickly spread to many big cities across the nation.Taco Tuesday is similar to Happy Hour in that restaurants vary in their participation, hours, and specials offered.
Taco Tuesdays can be part of a healthy diet plan, if done right.
I asked my friend,Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic’ to share a few of his favorite healthy fish taco recipes on this blog.It’s all part of the preparations for our biggest podcast event of the year, Mister Divabetic Mystery podcast: ‘Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’on Tuesday, September 12, 2017, 6 PM, EST.
The wonderful Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic’ plays the character on ‘Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’.
Since this year’s zany adventure takes place in New York City’s historic seashore, Coney Island we’re spotlighting seafood dishes.
Don’t let diabetes dim your DAZZLE! Get in the spirt and enjoy the first of several fish taco recipes,Hoisin Shrimp Tacos, from The Happy Diabetic. It’s sure to win over your family and friends at your next party!
WHAT’S THAT?: Hoisin sauce is a thick, pungent sauce commonly used in Chinese cuisine as a glaze for meat, an addition to stir fries, or as dipping sauce. It is darkly colored in appearance and sweet and salty in taste. Peking-style hoisin sauce ingredients include starches such as sweet potato, wheat or rice, and water, sugar, soybeans, sesame seeds, white distilled vinegar, salt, garlic, red chili peppers, and sometimes preservatives or coloring agents. Traditionally, hoisin sauce is made using toasted mashed soy beans.
Let’s put it together!
In a large mixing bowl stir together 3 teaspoons Hoisin, soy sauce, and garlic; add shrimp and mix until well coated. Set aside to marinate.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine 2 tsp hoisin, and zest and juice of one lime, mix together with cabbage and cilantro; set aside.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat or cook on the grill, heat the oil. Drain shrimp and pat dry; discard marinade. Sear shrimp until slightly caramelized, then flip. Cook until shrimp are firm, about 3 minutes and remove from the heat.
Wrap the tortillas in foil and bake for about 8 minutes, until they are softened and heated through.
Assemble tacos with a handful of cabbage slaw and a few pieces of shrimp. Cutgarnish with the remaining lime cut into wedges and serve immediately.
Skip The Chips: According to United States Department of Agriculture reported that tortilla chips are high in calories per gram and are filled with saturated fats and high levels of sodium. Get more Healthy Taco Tuesday tips from Pritikin to help you host a nutritious and delicious Taco Tuesday right at home: READ MORE
In a recent profile on the Everyday Diabetes website, Chef Robert Lewis admitted that he feared the worst for his own love of great food following his diagnosis with Type 2 Diabetes in 1998.
“I suspected that my days of good eating were over,” Lewis writes on his blog. “Yet, as I worked through my ups and downs, I came to realize that the selection of foods I could and should eat was vast and included many of my favorites. This motivated me to attempt to create delicious, diabetic-friendly dishes that were also easy to prepare.
Today he’s a man on the go! is a man on the go. When he’s not working as a director of training for 60 restaurants in the Midwest, he’s traveling around the country as a keynote speaker for Taking Control of Your Diabetes and/or hosting his own podcast, ‘The Happy Diabetic Kitchen Podcast’! Read more about Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic’ in Diabetes Health Monitor magazine.
Diabetes advocate turned reluctant amateur sleuth, Mr. Divabetic finally takes the plunge and ventures into a new career as a healthy caterer. With the help of his co-workers and nosy Italian mother, he heads for Coney Island to cater his first party aboard a yacht for his former swim coach, Ted Rockow. But his nautical soiree quickly capsizes when the guest of honor is found swimming with the fishes. What it an accident or foul play? Now Mr. Divabetic’s grilling Burlesque dancers, a lifeguard lothario and some sequined mermaids, all intent on keeping their secrets buried deep within the sand. Can Mr. Divabetic prove Coach’s death was a murder, not an accident? Or will he end up floating out to sea?
Will he sink or swim? Tune in to find out if he can solve the murder of his former swim coach with the help of his friends, some sassy mermaids and a cooky fortune teller. Along the way to revealing the identity of the murderer he uncovers expert tips for diabetes self-care during the Summer months.
USA Today Best-Selling Author, Tonya Kappes, Asha Brown, Catherine Schuller, Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic’, Seveda Williams, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, MaryAnn Horst Nicolay, Mama Rose Marie and Poet Lorraine Brooks help the fruit suit clad sleuth in this seaside adventure. Healthy delicious recipes provided by Chef Robert Lewis and Stacey Harris aka ‘The Diabetic Pastry Chef’.
This year’s mystery podcast features music from the original cast recording of ‘Gypsy’ courtesy of SONY Music.
Join the show! Get the full script for ‘Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’ and read along as our cast performs. Please e-mail: mrdvabetic@gmail.com
Check out the latest headlines in diabetes, diabetes self-management, healthy lifestyles and diva entertainment that we think you should know about.
Miami Activist and Writer, Alexandra Noghaven Dies of Food Poisoning While Trying to See the World Before Losing her Sight
Diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes when she was nine years old and at the age of 22, Noghaven was in a race against time after doctors said the activist would likely go blind in 10 years. Her mother, Anne Jackaway received a call from the US Embassy informing her that her daughter had passed away he night before. She believes the food poisoning ‘probably sent her blood sugars out of whack so she didn’t realize her vulnerability falling asleep’. READ MORE
Talking About Sex Is Great, But HOW You Talk About Sex Is What Really Matters
When individuals and couples have problems in the bedroom, it impacts other areas of their lives. “I once met with a couple to discuss how to manage the husband’s diabetes better. We talked about meal planning, label reading, exercise, medication dosing, and more,” writes Janis Roszler, LMFT, RD, LD/N, CDE, FAND. “Later, I learned that he had erectile dysfunction (ED). She was angry and hurt. She assumed that his performance problems meant that he was no longer attracted to her.” READ MORE
Taylor Swift Goes to a Darker Place on New Album, ‘Reputation’
Singer Taylor Swift didn’t just release a new single this week; she kicked off a meticulous campaign to get die-hard fans involved in the collective experience of buying things from Taylor Swift.
When Swift dropped “Look What You Made Me Do” at midnight on August 24, another video appeared on her YouTube page to announce a new partnership between the singer and Ticketmaster in preparation for the tour she’ll embark on in support of her upcoming album Reputation, which will be available November 10. The basic idea is, as the peppy voiceover declares, to “beat the bots” to the business of buying the best seats, an ongoing frustration for fans of Swift and/or anyone else who routinely sells out shows. READ MORE
Hurricane Harvey: Diabetes Tips to Be Prepared for the Storm
Hurricane Harvey is heading toward Texas and is set to make landfall late Friday night or early Saturday morning — meaning that people with diabetes should take preventative measures now.
The American Diabetes Association recommends storing three days worth of diabetes supplies, which, depending on how you take care of your diabetes, could include oral medication, insulin, insulin delivery supplies, lancets, extra batteries for your meter and/or pump, and a quick-acting source of glucose. You may also want to have an extra glucagon emergency kit. All these items should be kept in an easy-to-identify container, and stored in a location that is easy to get to in an emergency. READ MORE
Amazon Says Whole Food Prices Will Drop Prices
Amazon is cutting the prices of bananas, butter, organic eggs, and other best-selling staples at Whole Foods’ 470 stores, promising customers lower costs and targeting the grocer’s “Whole Paycheck” nickname. The online giant also says its Amazon Prime members will get special prices and perks according to npr.org.
New prices will take effect on Monday, August 28, 2017 — the same day Amazon says it will finalize its $13.7 billion acquisition of Whole Foods. The online marketplace, famous for disrupting the book industry and other retail segments, also laid out its plans for combining its business with an established brick-and-mortar chain. READ MORE
Dr. Phil Could have Ended up Weighing 500 Pounds.
“I’m the only one in my family who’s not morbidly obese,” says the top TV talk show host. “I have two nephews who are over 500 pounds, I’ve got aunts that died in their 40s from being hugely obese.” His father died of heart complications from obesity, and diabetes is a huge problem for both sides of his family. READ MORE
Luther Vandross Tribute Podcast
We’re honored to celebrate Luther Vandross and his musical legacy as well as raise awareness for diabetes health-related complications (such as stroke) on our annual Luther Vandross Tribute podcast. Featured guests include Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, Luther percussionist Steve Kroon, Luther vocalists Tawatha Agee and Pat Lacy, Luther historian Leon Petrossian, members of ‘The Luther Re-Lives Experience’, family members, friends and superfans. Throughout the podcast we will be featuring selected songs from the album entitled ‘Luther Vandross’ courtesy of SONY Music. LISTEN NOW
Who doesn’t love nachos? Especially seafood nachos that are easy to make?
Since great food makes for a great party I asked several of my friends to share their favorite recipes on this blog.It’s all part of the preparations for ourbiggestpodcast event of the year, Mister Divabetic Mystery podcast: ‘Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’ on Tuesday, September 12, 2017, 6 PM, EST.Since this year’s zany adventure takes place in New York City’s historic seashore, Coney Island we’re spotlighting seafood dishes.
Don’t let diabetes dim your DAZZLE! Get in the spirt and enjoy my good friend, Best-Selling Cookbook Author, Holly Clegg’shealthy Crab Nacho Recipe. It’s sure to win over your family and friends at your next party!
“Every time I make these baked nachos I have to sneak a few before I set them out because they will be all polished off before I know it!,” says Holly.
Crispy tortilla chips baked with a splendid southwestern-seasoned crab mixture and smothered with cheese is quick to prepare and quicker to disappear.
How can Holly’s delicious crabmeat nachos possibly be healthy?
“By using reduced-fat ingredients and baked tortilla chips, you get a wonderful crab southwestern topping for a baked nachos recipe,” says Holly. “! I have the best
6 dozen baked tortilla flour chips
1/2 cup nonfat sour cream
3 tablespoons light mayonnaise
1/2 cup chopped green onions
1 (4-ounce) can chopped green chilies, drained
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
1 pound lump, white, or canned crabmeat, picked through for shells
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups shredded, reduced-fat, sharp cheddar or Mexican-blend cheese
Paprika
1. Preheat oven to broil. Arrange tortilla chips in single layer on baking sheet.
2. In bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, green onions, green chilies, cumin. Fold in crabmeat, salt and pepper to taste.
3. Divide mixture on chips. Sprinkle with cheese and paprika. Bake 6-8 minutes or until cheese is melted.
Makes 3 dozen nachos. Nutritional information per serving: Calories 57, Calories from fat (%) 29, Fat (g) 2, Saturated Fat (g) 1, Cholesterol (mg) 14, Sodium (mg) 143, Carbohydrate (g) 5, Dietary Fiber (g) 0, Sugars (g) 0, Protein (g) 5, Diabetic Exchanges: 1/2 starch, 1/2 lean meat
Holly Clegg’s Cooking Tip: If you don’t have fresh crabmeat available, my second choice is the pasteurized crabmeat you find in a can. Of course, you can always use snow crab, king crab or imitation crabmeat for this crab nachos recipe.
Crab Nachos from Holly Clegg’s Gulf Coast Favorites cookbook is packed with Louisiana Cajun recipes. Superbowl party or just a Friday night game night with friend, set these melt in your mouth healthy crab nachos out and you will be the ‘divabetic’ hostess with the mostest!
With over 1 MILLION COOKBOOKS sold, Holly Clegg has become a culinary expert on easy healthy everyday recipes through her nationally recognized best-selling trim&TERRIFIC® and Eating Well cookbook series, including Eating Well Through Cancer, (English, Spanish and Chinese editions), Eating Well to Fight Arthritis and Diabetic Cooking with the ADA. Clegg attended the Cordon Bleu Cooking School, London and has appeared on Fox & Friends, NBC Weekend Today, QVC, The 700 Club, USA Today, Cooking Light Magazine, Web MD, and Huff Post. She consulted and did spokesperson work for Walmart, Teflon, DuPont, The Coca-Cola Company, and hospitals throughout the country. For more information, visit About Holly or The Healthy Cooking Blog for more recipes and tips.
Join us for the broadcast of our newest Mister Divabetic Mister entitled “Gypsies, Tramps and Peas”.
Diabetes advocate turned reluctant amateur sleuth, Mr. Divabetic finally takes the plunge and ventures into a new career as a healthy caterer. With the help of his co-workers and nosy Italian mother, he heads for Coney Island to cater his first party aboard a yacht for his former swim coach, Ted Rockow. But his nautical soiree quickly capsizes when the guest of honor is found swimming with the fishes. What it an accident or foul play? Now Mr. Divabetic’s grilling Burlesque dancers, a lifeguard lothario and some sequined mermaids, all intent on keeping their secrets buried deep within the sand. Can Mr. Divabetic prove Coach’s death was a murder, not an accident? Or will he end up floating out to sea?
Will he sink or swim? Tune in to find out if he can solve the murder of his former swim coach with the help of his friends, some sassy mermaids and a cooky fortune teller. Along the way to revealing the identity of the murderer he uncovers expert tips for diabetes self-care during the Summer months.
USA Today Best-Selling Author, Tonya Kappes, Asha Brown, Catherine Schuller, Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic’, Seveda Williams, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, MaryAnn Horst Nicolay, Mama Rose Marie and Poet Lorraine Brooks help the fruit suit clad sleuth in this seaside adventure. Healthy delicious recipes provided by Chef Robert Lewis and Stacey Harris aka ‘The Diabetic Pastry Chef’.
This year’s mystery podcast features music from the original cast recording of ‘Gypsy’ courtesy of SONY Music.
Join the show! Get the full script for ‘Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’ and read along as our cast performs. Please e-mail: mrdvabetic@gmail.com
As many of you may know I am a ‘PWD Type 1’ (person living with type 1 diabetes), I have been living type 1 diabetes since 2014. I have been a diabetic since 2005. Being a diabetic is hard since you must be on top of your disease at all times. You don’t get a day off. I always have to check my blood sugars and carry my diabetes kit with me at all times to make sure that I’m prepared for anything. For example, I carry test strips, meter, alcohol swabs, lancet device, lancets, insulin – fast acting. Insulin – long acting ( in case I don’t get back home in time for my afternoon dose or since I’m at work before my morning dose), pen needles, glucose for lows, snacks, ice pack for summer time in my purse before I head out the door. 
