Heart Attack Signs for Women Are Like A Quiet Storm

Did you know that women are at a much higher risk to have a silent heart attack and be unaware that it’s happening or confuse it with something else?

The symptoms of a heart attack can come on like a quiet storm.

Studies have shown that women who have had a heart attack often did not experience chest pain — the most telling sign of a heart problem. Instead, women have a set of symptoms that come on slowly and progress gradually, including:

Unusual fatigue
Sleep disturbance
Flu-like discomfort
Paleness or clammy skin
Inability to sleep

Men are much more likely to experience the most common symptoms suddenly and with more severity. They can have cold sweats, dizziness or a feeling that they’re going to pass out.

Most fans we’re shocked to learn that Peabo Bryson suffered a mild heart attack last year. He credits his wife’s quick thinking and fast response for his his speedy recovery. In honor of this Quiet Storm icon we’re encourage you to learn the common warning signs of heart attack.

Memorize the common heart attack warning signs like the words to your favorite love song:

Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes – or it may go away and then return. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain

Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.

Shortness of breath. This can occur with or without chest discomfort.

Other signs. Other possible signs include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.

If you can spot them early, you can limit the damage from the heart attack. Keep your house a home and learn the signs for heart attack, and remember: Even if you’re not sure it’s a heart attack, have it checked out.

Minutes matter. Fast action can save lives – maybe your own. Call 911 if you experience heart attack warning signs. Calling 911 is almost always the fastest way to get lifesaving treatment. Learn more at heart.org

Join us for Quiet Storm Fans’ Peabo Bryson Listening Party with Leon Petrossian on Saturday, July 18, 8 – 10 PM. We will sharing heart health and heart attack information between Peabo Bryson’s most beloved songs.

Divabetic was inspired by the late music legend, Luther Vandross and created in 2005 by Max ‘Mr. Divabetic’ Szadek, who, as Vandross’ assistant of 14 years, witnessed his boss, mentor, and friend struggle in silence and solitude with the diabetes and its related complications. Since its inception, Divabetic has presented outreach programs in 15 major U.S. cities, reaching hundreds of thousands of women, their families and health care professionals.

Experience more of our GLAM MORE, FEAR LESS philosophy at divabetic.org

07/14/2020

How Gut Health Affects Mental Health

Have you ever felt “butterflies” in your stomach? This funny silly expression about our stomaches having the ability to feel anxiety is much more factual than you might think.

It’s been proven that our gastrointestinal tract is sensitive to emotion. Anger, anxiety, sadness, elation — all of these feelings can trigger symptoms in the gut.

Additionally, troubled stomaches and intestines send signals to our brains. Researchers say controlling the bacterial population of the gastrointestinal tract may help improve symptoms of mental disorders.

Current thinking in the field of neuropsychology and the study of mental health problems includes strong speculation that bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other psychological or neurological problems may also be associated with alternations in the microbiome reports PSYCOM.

Photo by Ehimetalor Akhere Unuabona on Unsplash

We’re talking about ‘Diabetes & Mental Health Issues’ on Divabetic’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast with musical inspiration from the iconic Phyllis Hyman.

Phyllis Hyman was a sensational singer-songwriter and actress. Deep-voiced and statuesque, Phyllis Hyman sang with a life-affirming energy and emotional intensity found in few other female vocalists.

Unfortunately Phyllis Hyman committed suicide, leaving a suicide note behind in 1995. Part of the note read “I’m tired. I’m tired. Those of you that I love know who you are. May God bless you.” It has been reported that she suffered from bi-polar disorder and depression and had a history of substance abuse which involved alcohol and cocaine. Who knows what accomplishments she would have achieved if she had lived longer?

Podcast guests include Alyson Williams, Queen Diva, Patricia Farrell PhD, Kristina Wolfe, ‘Tabouli: The Story of a Heart-Driven Diabetes Alert Dog’ Author Matt Pelicano, Elizabeth Vaughan Gallagher, Stacie Shonkwiler, and the Charlie’s Angels of Outreach with Patricia Addie-Gentle.

Throughout the podcast we will be featuring music from The Essential Phyllis Hyman album courtesy of SONY Music.

07/13/2020

Remembering Gerald Levert

Divabetic remembers songwriter, arranger, producer, and performer, Gerald Levert on what would have been his 54th birthday, (7/13/20).

Gerald Levert’s career began in 1984, when he teamed up with his brother Sean Levert and friend Marc Gordon, to form the band LeVert. A couple of solid albums followed and received attention on the R&B charts – but in 1987, Their big hit, Casanova, took them to the top of the charts in 1987.

In in 1991, Gerald Levert began his solo career with a string of successes including the operatic “Taking Everything.”

Even when Gerald Levert died on November 10, 2006, his career wasn’t over. His album In My Songs was released posthumously in 2007, and the title track was a Grammy winner – Gerald Levert’s first.

Gerald Levert’s early death – the singer was just 40 years old – was unexpected and devastating to his family, friends and fans.

Gerald Levert’s death was caused by a fatal combination of prescription and over the counter medications according to the coroner’s report.

Andy Gibson, a family spokesperson, said Gerald Leveret was taking pain medications because of chronic pain from a lingering shoulder injury and surgery in 2005 to repair a severed Achilles tendon.

From Gerald Levert’s shoulder injury to sports injuries, chronic pain is surprisingly common. About 116 million Americans are estimated to struggle with chronic pain according to The Ranch Tennessee. While there are many ways to manage it, some individuals turn to prescription painkillers. Opioids, such as Vicodin, OxyContin and Percocet, to relieve the discomfort.

Many patients are able to take prescription painkillers without becoming addicted. However, some people don’t follow the prescribed dosage and take larger doses or take the medication more frequently.

Warning Signs of Addiction

Requiring increasingly larger doses to achieve the same effect
Seeking prescriptions from multiple physicians (also called “doctor shopping”)
Changes in personality, including mood or energy levels
Withdrawing from family and friends
Neglecting responsibilities, including work and household chores
Becoming defensive when a loved one brings up the potential problem
Deteriorating appearance and declining personal hygiene habits

Addiction to prescription painkillers, heroin or other drugs is potentially life-threatening. If you or someone you love is addicted, seek professional help.

SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration provides confidential free help, from public health agencies, to find substance use treatment and information. This service provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations. Callers can also order free publications and other information.

Articles also indicate that Gerald Levert was suffering from anxiety — our body’s natural response to stress. If you’re dealing with anxiety READ MORE

07/12/2020

31 Days of Divabetic Podcasts, Day Twelve

Divabetic (Divabetic.org) presents a month-long showcase celebrating 10 years of diabetes podcasting. Each of the featured podcasts spotlights our favorite guests, topics, poems, games and/or musical inspiration. Enjoy!

On Day 12, we’re spotlighting our Diabetes Fairy Tales podcast from 2013. Fairy tales aren’t just for children. Adults need them too. Fairy tales can teach us about the higher qualities of ourselves and others, make us feel like we can conquer our fears and give us hope for the future. Additionally, we think the ‘Land of Make Believe’ can help you to stay healthy and upbeat about your diabetes self-care.

Joining Mr. Divabetic are Connie Frazier RD, CDE, Lori Bednarz RN, CDE, Makeup Artist and Esthetician Sue Perez, Poet Lorraine Brooks, Lorraine Starsky RN and Neva White CRNP, CDE in celebration of Divabetic’s sixth year of headlining the American Diabetes Association Expo in Pittsburgh, PA.

Mr. Divabetic and his merry band of diabetes educators presented Divabetic’s stage show extravaganza, ‘Diabetes Fairy Tales’ in the Divabetic Pavilion at the American Diabetes Association’s Expo in Pittsburgh, PA. The program is based on nine popular Fairy Tales including Snow White, Cinderella, Pinocchio, Beauty & The Beast, Rapunzel, Hansel & Gretel, Little Red Riding Hood and more! The Diabetes Fairy Tales stage show in Pittsburgh will feature Little Red Riding Hood self-care games, 3 Bears fitness demonstrations, Hansel and Gretel Food Aisle Face-Offs, and diabetes care advice for damsels in distress from the experts.

Poet Lorraine Brooks added a diabetes twist to the popular Beauty & The Beast fairy tale.

‘Beauty & The Beast’ by Lorraine Brooks

A beauty named Belle, says the story,

Was a lovely and humble young lass,

She was regal in all of her glory,

But she had diabetes, alas.

She thought diabetes was just a big beast

READ MORE

Divabetic’s monthly podcasts are dedicated to Music Lovers living with, at risk and/or affected by diabetes. We aim to be the epicenter of the circle of care, a link between patients and their health care providers, a translator of clinical speak and a bridge between denial and acceptance, fear and confidence

Experience more of our GLAM MORE, FEAR LESS philosophy at divabetic.org

07/11/202007/17/2020

Divabetic Mystery Phrase #24

Can you complete our Divabetic Mystery Phrase below?

Every time we try to get fit and fail, we learn a little bit more about how our mind, body and soul work. Maybe we lost a few pounds with strategy A, but failed with strategy B. If we start home workouts for a few weeks and give up, when we come back next time we are familiar with the inner workings, and don’t need to get over the fear of exercising like the first time.

Each time you start over, you’re getting closer to that point of making things stick.

It turns out that this strategy might actually be crucial in giving us the motivation to push forward.

Why Start Again?

When we decide to start anew, something amazing can happen. We can look at today as the first day of the rest of our diabetes life – everything else that has happened up to that point is in the past, and was indicative of our old selves.

Today you are somebody different. Change can happen in an instant. Don’t think “I’m going to fail again,” you can think that today there’s nothing keeping you from achieving the health and fitness goals you’re chasing. Why not today?

Join us for Divabetic’s Free Virtual Outreach Event

Looking for a fun way to socialize without putting your diabetes wellness at risk? Do you need a little help staying on track with your diabetes self-care?

Join the happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic for this free, fun Virtual Scavenger Hunt & Smoothie Party on Zoom with best-selling Intimacy & Diabetes co-author, Janis Roszler LMFT, RD, LD/N, CDE, FAND on Thursday, July 16, 2020, 7 – 7:35 PM, EST.

One lucky participant in our random drawing will win a Dario Blood Glucose Meter starter kit. This all-in-one pocket-sized device can track blood sugar fluctuations and trends and identify hyper/hypoglycemic episodes right from your smartphone, providing readings within as little as 6 seconds. It’s scientifically proven, HIPPA compliant, and includes Dario Coaches to offer support and motivation to help manage your diabetes. Enjoy this special Dario discount for the Divabetic community!

REGISTER NOW

Don’t Miss Divabetic’s 10th Year Podcasting Anniversary on Tuesday, July 14, 2020, 6 PM, EST. Guests include: Patricia Addie-Gentle, RN, CDE, Lorraine Brooks, Dr. Andrea Chisholm OB-GYN, Luther McRae, Mama Rose Marie, Susan Weiner MS, RDN, CDE, CDN, Dr. Beverly S. Adler PhD, CDE, Best-Selling Author Tonya Kappes, Seveda Williams, Catherine Schuller, Terri Seidman and special guests.

07/11/2020

31 Days Of Divabetic Podcasts, Day Eleven

On Day 11, we’re spotlighting Diabetes Roundtable Inspired by Esther Williams from July 2013.

From “Bathing Beauty” in 1944 to “Jupiter’s Darling” in 1955, Esther Williams swam in Technicolor pools, lakes, lagoons and oceans, cresting onto the list of Top 10 box-office stars in 1949 and 1950.

In a bathing suit, she was a special kind of all-American girl: tall, lithe, breathtakingly attractive and unpretentious. From the beginning, Ms. Williams wrote in her autobiography, “I sensed the water was my natural element.” She estimated that she had swum over 1,250 miles for the cameras.

Esther Williams became one of the most famous swimmers in history without ever participating in an Olympic Games, because she found opportunities that were disguised in many obstacles that she confronted. She spoke of movie stardom as her “consolation prize,” won instead of the Olympic gold medal for which she had yearned.

Swimming is like life with opportunities frequently disguised. When you become disappointed with your present plight, consider how Esther Williams’ disappointment from not participating in the 1940 Olympics led her to opportunities she could have never imagined.

“This podcast was really a game changer for us because of Lorraine Brooks’s poem,” says Max ‘Mr. Divabetic’ Szadek. “Initially when I asked Lorraine to write a poem about ‘the beach’, she declined. She had an uneasy feeling that I might not like her poem because it wasn’t ‘upbeat’ or ‘happy’ enough to fit in with our typical podcast format. I assured her that I wanted her to write whatever she felt inside her heart. Her ‘Beauty & Beach’ poem is probably the most popular poem she has shared on our podcast. Her words not only captured listeners’ hearts but they also re-shaped our podcast’s format to reflect a more authentic view of diabetes; the good and the bad along with everything in between.

I hope you enjoy Poet Lorraine Brooks’s poem “Beauty & The Beach” from our Diabetes Roundtable podcast inspired by Esther Williams originally broadcast in July 2013.

Beauty and the Beach by Poet Lorraine Brooks

I’m not Esther Williams.

I’m not even close.

My body in bathing suits

Feels clumsy and gross.

I look at the swimmers

And look at the pool,

And suddenly feel

Like a a fat ugly fool.

READ FULL POEM

Esther Williams’ life, legacy and love of swimming inspires Divabetic’s Roundtable podcast from July 2013. The happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic talks about the ‘Best Of Summer’ featuring the best in summer reads, swimsuits and diabetes self-care advice. Special Guests include: Author Brenda Novak, Image & Style Advisor Catherine Schuller, Poet Lorraine Brooks, Mama Rose Marie, Fitness Expert Tiffany Savion, Kathy Gold, RN, CDE, Neva White CRNP, CDE and Leslie living with type 1 diabetes.

Experience more of our GLAM MORE, FEAR LESS philosophy at divabetic.org

07/10/2020

31 Days of Divabetic Podcasts: Day Ten

Our monthly podcasts are dedicated to Music Lovers living with, at risk and/or affected by diabetes. We aim to be the epicenter of the circle of care, a link between patients and their health care providers, a translator of clinical speak and a bridge between denial and acceptance, fear and confidence

On Day 10, we’re spotlighting one of our most popular podcasts of all time, Diabetes Roundtable Inspired by Chaka Khan from November 2012. The slimmed down superstar diva, Chaka Khan is inspiring Diabetes Roundtable for National Diabetes Awareness Month!

The year before, The Queen of Funk, Chaka Khan was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 2011. Her diabetes diagnosis sparked an impressive weight loss.

“I had type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. So I went on a radical change in lifestyle. I was on liquids for a year, and that gave me a good jump-start,” Chaka Khan said in an article on Diabetes.co.uk. “It sort of changed my whole way of thinking. You have to get the mindset.”

Her new diet, combined with regular exercise sessions, has led to a dramatic improvement in health and allowed the singer to ditch her type 2 diabetes medication.

Mr. Divabetic hosts for this thirty minute whirlwind of wellness with superstar guests including Chaka Khan’s former bandmember and producer, Ivan Hampden, Jr., Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, Pam Butler MS, CDE, Constance Brown-Riggs MSEd, RD, CDE, CDN, Holly Clegg who is the author of six cookbooks including ‘Kitchen 101’ Mama Rose Marie and real-life diva, Ginger Vieira, who is the author of ‘Your Diabetes Science Experiment’ and record-setting competitive powerlifter living with type 1 diabetes.

“The only downside to this Chaka Khan inspired podcast is that back in 2012 we weren’t playing music between show segments,” says Max ‘Mr. Divabetic’ Szadek. “On the bright side, we have a great excuse to feature Chaka Khan’s music on an upcoming Diabetes Late Nite podcast!”

Looking for a fun way to socialize without putting your diabetes wellness at risk? Do you need a little help staying on track with your diabetes self-care?

Join the happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic for this free, fun Virtual Scavenger Hunt on Zoom with special guest, Best-Selling Intimacy & Diabetes co-author, Janis Roszler LMFT, RD, LD/N, CDE, FAND on Thursday, July 16, 2020, 7 – 7:35 PM, EST.

https://youtu.be/wPSuO-zUHik

This all-in-one pocket-sized device can track blood sugar fluctuations and trends and identify hyper/hypoglycemic episodes right from your smartphone, providing readings within as little as 6 seconds. It’s scientifically proven, HIPPA compliant, and includes Dario Coaches to offer support and motivation to help manage your diabetes.

REGISTER NOW

Thank you to everyone who has taken measures to protect our Divabetic community members and their loved ones by wearing cloth face coverings and social distancing. We are so grateful! Divabetic will continue to provide free Virtual Diabetes Outreach events with qualified health experts to keep you safe, informed a

Experience more of our GLAM MORE, FEAR LESS philosophy at divabetic.org

07/09/2020

31 Days of Divabetic Podcasts: Day Nine

On Day 9, we’re spotlighting our Studio d: Diabetes Foot Care podcast from April 2012.

The happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic steps in the studio with Dr. Maasi J. Smith (DPM), founder and director of the Rittenhouse Foot and Ankle Associates in Philadelphia (PA) and the website, www.mybadfeet.com, to talk foot care, diabetic wound care and to get general advice for healthy feet.

Bad feet are scary; but Dr. Maasi Smith (DMS) has seen it all and is committed to promoting foot health. This award winning surgical podiatrist admits that our feet are often the most neglected part of our body.

Due to the suppression of the immune response and reduced blood flow to the feet in people with diabetes, the body may be unable to heal wounds you suffer to your feet. As sensation has already been reduced, if you aren’t checking your feet regularly, you may not realize your feet are injured until it’s too late. If left untreated, bacterial infections can lead to gangrene, which may require amputation to ensure that the infection does not spread to other parts of the body.

What Can I Do?

There are some simple precautions you can take to keep your feet healthy as a diabetic.

Check your feet daily.
Keep your diabetes well managed.
Wash your feet daily.
Keep your feet moisturized (but no lotion between the toes, as moisture here can create conditions friendly to fungal infection).
Encourage circulation in your feet by wiggling your toes and changing positions regularly.
Meet regularly with your trusted podiatrist.

If you’re living with diabetes, it is crucial that you ensure foot health by working with your podiatrist to reduce the likelihood of infection and quickly treat any infection that arises.

Many foot conditions can worsen without prompt treatment from a qualified podiatrist. So don’t hesitate – if something feels wrong, call your healthcare team.

Divabetic’s free monthly podcasts are dedicated to Music Lovers living with, at risk and/or affected by diabetes. We aim to be the epicenter of the circle of care, a link between patients and their health care providers, a translator of clinical speak and a bridge between denial and acceptance, fear and confidence. All podcasts are available on demand at blogtalkradio and i-Tunes.

Experience more of our GLAM MORE, FEAR LESS philosophy at divabetic.org

Looking for a fun way to socialize without putting your diabetes wellness at risk? Do you need a little help staying on track with your diabetes self-care?

One lucky winner in our random drawing will win Janis Roszler’s best-selling e- book, Intimacy & Diabetes. A second lucky winner in our random drawing will win a Dario Blood Glucose Meter starter kit. This all-in-one pocket-sized device can track blood sugar fluctuations and trends and identify hyper/hypoglycemic episodes right from your smartphone, providing readings within as little as 6 seconds. It’s scientifically proven, HIPPA compliant, and includes Dario Coaches to offer support and motivation to help manage your diabetes.

REGISTER NOW

07/09/2020

Chocolate Peanut Butter Oat Balls Recipe by Jill Weisenberger MS, RDN, CDE, FAND

“These chocolate peanut butter balls are so delicious and chocolatey that you’d never guess that fruit is a primary ingredient. For the most health benefits and to get the flavanols in dark chocolate, choose cocoa powder that has not been Dutched or treated with alkali,” says our colleague and frequent Diabetes Late Nite podcast guest, Jill Weisenberger MS, RDN, CDE, FAND

Chocolate Peanut Butter Oat Balls Recipe by Jill Weisenberger MS, RDN, CDE, FAND

Ingredients

1 cup pitted medjool or deglet nor dates (4.5 ounces)
1/2 cup raisins
6 tablespoons natural peanut butter, creamy style (3.5 ounces)
1/2 cup rolled oats (2 ounces)
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
1/4 cup chocolate chips, preferably dark chocolate

SEE FULL RECIPE

JILL’S HELPFUL TIP: Eat Mindfully

“My challenge for you is to pick at least two meals or snacks this week to practice eating with intention or mindfulness. Really pay attention to your food – why you chose to eat it; what it looks like; how it smells; what you expect it to taste like; how it actually tastes; and how the taste, texture and temperature change in your mouth as you chew. Notice how it makes you feel, what you like and don’t like, how your hunger and appetite change,”says Jill Weisenberger.

“This is the week-by-week guide that will change your life!”

Diabetes Weight Loss Week by Week takes you on a one-year journey to weight control while managing your blood sugar,cholesterol level and more! This best-selling book includes sample menus, recipes and tricks for the kitchen. Instead of focusing on gimmicks, you will learn the skills you need to be successful long term.

BUY NOW

Jill Weisenberger, MS, RDN, CDE, CHWC, FAND, is a Nutrition, Culinary & Diabetes Expert, Wellcoach®-certified health and wellness coach, Freelance Writer, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Certified Diabetes Educator. She’s also the author of four books, including a best-seller. She’s a nationally-recognized media expert in high demand for print and online interviews, as well as corporate and one-on-one nutritional counseling. Jill’s philosophy is that nutrition science should be understandable, realistic and oh so delicious.

Listen to Divabetic’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast with music from the ‘The Best Of Patti Austin’ album courtesy of SONY Music available on demand. Guests include Jill Weisenberger MS, RDN, CDE, CHWC, FAND, Chris Pickering co-founder of ‘The Betes Bros, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, and Mama Rose Marie.

Looking for a fun way to socialize without putting your diabetes wellness at risk? Do you need a little help staying on track with your diabetes self-care?

One lucky winner in our random drawing will win Janis Roszler’s best-selling e- book, Intimacy & Diabetes. A second lucky winner will win a Dario Blood Glucose Meter starter kit. This all-in-one pocket-sized device can track blood sugar fluctuations and trends and identify hyper/hypoglycemic episodes right from your smartphone, providing readings within as little as 6 seconds. It’s scientifically proven, HIPPA compliant, and includes Dario Coaches to offer support and motivation to help manage your diabetes.

REGISTER NOW

07/08/202007/08/2020

31 Days of Divabetic Podcasts: Day Eight

On Day 8, we’re spotlighting our Studio d: Diabetes & Exercise podcast from May 2012. Author of Can I Exercise Sitting Down?, Renee Wiggins joins the happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic in the studio to give suggestions for how to exercise in the most ordinary places and how people with every lifestyle can add a fitness component into their routine.

Renee Wiggins’ book, Being Fabulously Fit in God’s Kingdom: A 40-day Journey to Wellness provides a road map to staying healthy, fit spiritually and physically.

Renee Wiggins is also a registered and licensed dietitian (RD/LD), certified physical fitness trainer (CPFT) and owner of Results by Renee, a medical lifestyle spa in Washington, DC (www.resultsbyrenee.com).

Divabetic was inspired by the late music legend, Luther Vandross and created in 2005 by Max ‘Mr. Divabetic’ Szadek, who, as Vandross’ assistant of 14 years, witnessed his boss, mentor, and friend struggle in silence and solitude with the diabetes and its related complications. Since its inception, Divabetic has presented outreach programs in 15 major U.S. cities, reaching hundreds of thousands of women, their families and health care professionals.

Experience more of our GLAM MORE, FEAR LESS philosophy at divabetic.org

Looking for a fun way to socialize without putting your diabetes wellness at risk? Do you need a little help staying on track with your diabetes self-care?