Category: Diva TalkRadio

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Diabetes And Cataracts

When you have diabetes, high blood sugars over time can lead to structural changes in the eye’s lens, accelerating the development of cataracts.

You may not notice cataracts since symptoms can be minor until clouding affects the center of the eye, then cataracts can progress rapidly. Other causes of cataracts:

  • Family history
  • Eye injury
  • Eye surgery
  • Repeated eye injections
  • Spending a lot of time in the sun without UV sunglasses
  • Using certain medications, such as corticosteroids

Know the Symptoms

  • Cloudy or blurry vision
  • Seeing double in one eye
  • Seeing halos around lights
  • Being extra sensitive to light and glare
  • Having trouble seeing well at night
  • Bright colors seem faded

How to Prevent Cataracts

  • Wear sunglasses with UV protection
  • Do not smoke—and if you currently do, quit!

Thankfully, cataract surgery can help reverse a cataract caused by diabetes. This short outpatient procedure involves removing and replacing a damaged lens with a healthy artificial lens.

We’re sharing ideas on lifestyle adjustments that can help you live your best life while managing your diabetes on this episode of Divabetic’s popular podcast. Our experts offer straightforward, simple, and fun swap ideas for drinks, medications, self-care, and fashion. Plus, we share style tips and words of inspiration to help you maintain a healthy habit.

Developing these habits isn’t always easy. Adapting to a new routine can be tricky, and it’s often tempting to want to return to old ways if we don’t see immediate results. One of the biggest mistakes people make when forming a new habit is taking on too much too quickly.  Focus on what’s working in your diabetes self-care plan before overhauling diabetes management. Instead of decluttering the entire house, why not focus on one room or closet? Why not focus on the calories you drink rather than everything you eat?  If you want to eat healthier, try replacing one dessert daily with a piece of fruit rather than cutting out sugar completely. If you’re going to get into hiking, start with a walk at lunchtime. Setting small goals you can achieve will help keep you motivated along the way.

Guests include Catherine Schuller, Poet Lorraine Brooks, Patricia Addie-Gentle RD, CDCES, MaryAnn Horst Nicolay, MEd, NDTR, and Mama Rose Marie. Hosted by Mr. Divabetic.

The main themes of Divabetic’s diabetes mystery podcast Gypsies, Tramps & Peas are positive body image and summertime diabetes self-care tips.

Here’s a quick synopsis: 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 fish. Was 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, CDCES, MaryAnn Horst Nicolay, Mama Rose Marie, and Poet Lorraine Brooks help the fruit suit clad sleuth in this seaside adventure.

This year’s mystery podcast features music from the original cast recording of ‘Gypsy’ courtesy of SONY Music.

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Remembering Luther Vandross

Today I’m thinking of my boss, Luther Vandross, on the anniversary of his passing.  Luther changed my life twice. First, he hired me to be his assistant, and then his stroke, related to mismanaged type 2 diabetes, made me a diabetes advocate.

In 1995, he moved me from San Francisco (where I worked in Regional Theater) to New York City to become his full-time assistant.  It was two years after I worked on my first Luther tour, Never Let Me Go, in 1993.

It was a dream come true for a kid who loves soul music from Rochester, NY (I was a diehard WDKX listener) without professional connections. In 2003, I became his caregiver after he suffered a stroke due to mismanaged type 2 diabetes which led me on a path as a diabetes advocate.

My lack of knowledge regarding my grandmother’s diabetes and self-care dismissed concerns I might have had that mismanaged diabetes could destroy someone’s quality of life and health until it was too late. Calling diabetes ‘a touch of sugar’ is like saying a Great White shark is a Goldfish.

Luther was a generous, kind, funny, and hugely talented man. But sadly, I witnessed him struggle with food addiction. In reflection, I feel Luther’s behavior was similar to other addicts. He was either sober, abstaining from carbohydrates, or using, binge eating. No one talks about food addiction as they discuss or glorify drug use. But in my opinion, Luther was wrestling with a monster just as powerful and seductive as cocaine. Unfortunately, he lost the battle. He felt trapped in his body, and it caused him physical, mental, and emotional heartache.

But that’s not the whole story. Luther was a complex, multi-dimensional man, just like a multi-dimensional artist who was a successful songwriter, producer, vocal arranger, and vocalist. On many of his biggest hits, he showcases all of these skills.

The first time I met him, the sheer magnitude of his talent blew me away. He embodied the American Dream to me. He never had a Plan B because he felt if he did, then he wouldn’t pursue his dream. His bravery has influenced my life decisions and given me the strength to pursue my dreams.

Every July 1st, I renew my desire to help those at risk, affected by, and living with diabetes to ‘keep their house a home’ by learning to delay or prevent a mismanaged diabetes complication such as stroke.

Enjoy Divabetic’s Annual Luther Vandross Tribute podcast guests, including Lisa Fischer, Jason Miles, Jeff James, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDCES, and Chuck Flowers.

By the time Luther Vandross headed to the studio to record his fifth album, Give Me the Reason, in 1986; he’d become one of the most successful soul singers of the first half of the eighties. His four previous albums have been either certified platinum or double-platinum in America.

Luther Vandross’s fifth album, Give Me the Reason, comprised nine tracks, including the hits: So Amazing, There’s Nothing Better Than Love, Stop To Love and Give Me The Reason. We chose to spotlight this album because this is the first time Luther showcased his 100-pound weight loss on the album’s cover. He was not able to maintain or sustain the weight loss. Luther lost and gained at least a hundred pounds more than eight times while I worked for him. We’re discussing yo-yo dieting, self-love, and the power of positive talk can help you overcome feelings of failing or self-loathing related to body shape and size.

Today, I continue to present diabetes outreach with dazzle! Divabetic’s robust schedule includes newsletters, blog posts, virtual programs, and podcasts. I also work full-time for violinist Itzhak Perlman. Since Mr. Perlman, who has polio, uses a motorized scooter, I spend most days dealing with accessibility issues regarding air and ground travel and hotel accommodations. Mr. Perlman’s exuberance for life, humor and kindness, not to mention talent, make it all worthwhile. Although soul music and Rhythm and Blues will always be my first love, I’ve learned to appreciate classical music.

Itzhak Perlman is truly amazing! And yes, Mr. Perlman has listened to and enjoyed Luther’s music.

Over the past 20 years since Luther’s stroke, I have lost none of my passion for helping others at risk, affected by and living with avoid a similar fate to Luther’s. I am still keenly interested in eradicating the shame and blame associated with type 2 diabetes and elevating the conversation surrounding food addiction.

Throughout the podcast, we will feature music from Luther Vandross’s Give Me The Reason album courtesy of SONY Music.

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Here Lies Love On Broadway

Last night we saw Here Lies Love on Broadway. It’s basically the life story of Imelda Marcos set to a disco beat. Most of the show occurs on a large dancefloor with audience members dancing to the action as it unfolds. Imelda Marcos’s frequent trips to New York’s illustrious Studio 54 and her numerous dances with World Leaders seem to be what Creator David Byrnes wanted to capture in the production. I thought the staging, multi-media, and music were innovative and exciting.  However, I was confused by the portrayal of Imelda Marcos. She first appears as a poor teen whose first boyfriend, politician Ninoy Aquino, dumps her for his love of country.

Ninoy Aquino later served as a senator for the Philippines and governor of the province of Tarlac before playing a key role in opposing President Ferdinand Marcos. His future wife, Corazon Aquino, became the 11th president of the Philippines after his assassination.

After Ninoy leaves her, Imelda wins a local beauty contest and moves to the big city. Shortly after, she meets and weds Ferdinand Marcos.

How did a poor girl with no powerful connections manage to be involved with two of the Philippines’ most powerful men? We never find out.  She appeared to be neither a victim nor a villain in the story, which sometimes makes the show a bit cumbersome. I’m not sure that’s necessarily true, but the real Imelda Marcos might be the culprit for that. Numerous reports state that she was known for altering the truth as well as her life story to her.

“She’s an unreliable narrator of her life,” says The Kingmaker Director Lauren Greenfield describing Imelda Marcos.

The Kingmaker looks at Imelda Marcos’ public persona and all the dastardly deeds she’s either been responsible for or denied that occurred while she was in the political limelight.

We know her husband, the dictator Ferdinand Marcos suffered many chronic illnesses during his lifetime, even though he loved to portray himself as a strong and powerful man.

“A refuge of a very sick man” was how Associated Press (AP) reporter Ben Alabastro described a room they found inside Malacañang Palace after the 1986 People Power Revolution.

Towards the end of her husband’s rule, many regarded Imelda as the ruler in Malacañan Palace when he got ill with lupus.  She engaged in state visits all by herself (and her entourage). She met with powerful leaders like Chairman Mao Zedong, Fidel Castro, Saddam Hussein, and Muammar Gaddafi. Fidel Castro, the late Cuban leader, once said he only drove for two women: his mother and Imelda Marcos. She earned the nickname “The Iron Butterfly” and ultimately served as Manila’s Governor,

She even commissioned plenty of buildings during her husband’s term. From the Philippine Heart Center to the now-infamous  Manila Film Center. She aimed to make Manila a world-class city after it was wiped out by the World War II bombing.

Like many other complex women, Nancy Reagan, and Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, the media oversimplified her image. She is admired for her glamour yet despised for her extravagance. She is sometimes compared to Marie Antoinette. My memories of her are of a silly ‘shoe-obsessed woman’ rather than an intelligent, conniving powerbroker who oversees a political dynasty. What other former First Lady has been able to return to the palace she fled to see her children become a Senator and a President?

In 1986, Ferdinand and Imelda Marcos were ousted from power in the Philippines and landed in Hawaii’s lap. Their exile in the islands became a years-long, global spectacle. And it divided the community as the Marcos family brought their lavish and loud lifestyle to Oahu.

In the Philippines,  diabetes is about 7.1% of adults between 20-79 years old. Diabetes continues to be the fourth leading cause of mortality in the Philippines. Filipino Americans also have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes than White adults, other Asian adults, and Philippines residents despite their relatively low body weight.

 

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Mr. Divabetic Raises Awareness At Feria de Salud Festival in The Bronx

The happy healthcare host, Mr Divabetic raises awareness for diabetes in a fun, new way at the American Diabetes Association’s Latino program, Feria de Salud, at St. Mary’s Park in the Bronx, NY.

The annual Feria de Salud Festival offers free health screenings and education to South Bronx residents about diabetes.

Approximately 1,717,067 people in New York, or 10.7% of adults, have been diagnosed with diabetes. An additional 456,000 people in New York have diabetes but don’t know it, significantly increasing their health risk. Sadly, the Bronx is home to five of city’s worst 10 neighborhoods for diabetes-related deaths.

Play along as Mr. Divabetic challenges various American Diabetes Association staff members, Dr. Ileana Vargas – Rodriquez, Mimi Gonzalez BS, RN, with the food game, ‘Serve, Taste or Trash!’

You might be surprised by the results. In the game, players are given three choices of fruits and vegetables. You must decide which one you’d serve, which one you’d taste, and which one you’d trash. Before you decide to “trash” a veggie for good, why not try to eat it raw? Raw veggies can be more delicious than cooked to people who aren’t crazy about vegetables. The flavors of raw veggies can be milder than those of cooked ones. And the texture is crispy rather than mushy.

Are You Living With PreDiabetes? 

Why should I care about prediabetes? The sooner you know you have prediabetes, the sooner you can take action to reverse it and prevent type 2 diabetes. Click HERE to take a quick PreDiabetes Risk Test.

The CDC-led National Diabetes Prevention Program helps people with prediabetes make lasting lifestyle changes to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes. Working with a trained coach teaches you to eat healthy, add physical activity, and manage stress. With other participants, you’ll celebrate successes and work to overcome challenges. If you have prediabetes, now is your time to take action Click HERE for program details.

Mr. Divabetic is a 2011 WEGO Health Activist Award finalist and the happy healthcare host of Diva TalkRadio. Diva TalkRadio is Divabetic’s dynamic free online and mobile podcast channel where tens of thousands of fans, followers, and listeners turn to laugh a little and learn a lot. The channel features a line-up of live and archived programs and specials.

Do you need some inspiration to help you make healthier choices? Tune in to this episode of Divabetic popular podcast focused on Healthy Swaps. With a few simple swaps, you can help live your best life while managing your diabetes. Our experts offer straightforward, simple, and fun swap ideas for drinks, medications, self-care, and fashion. Plus, we share style tips and words of inspiration to help you maintain a healthy habit.

Developing these habits isn’t always easy. Adapting to a new routine can be tricky, and it’s often tempting to want to return to old ways if we don’t see immediate results. One of the biggest mistakes people make when forming a new habit is taking on too much too quickly.  Focus on what’s working in your diabetes self-care plan before overhauling diabetes management. Instead of decluttering the entire house, why not focus on one room or closet? Why not focus on the calories you drink rather than everything you eat?  If you want to eat healthier, try replacing one dessert daily with a piece of fruit rather than cutting out sugar completely. If you’re going to get into hiking, start with a walk at lunchtime. Setting small goals you can achieve will help keep you motivated along the way.

Guests include Catherine Schuller, Poet Lorraine Brooks, Patricia Addie-Gentle RD, CDCES, MaryAnn Horst Nicolay, MEd, NDTR, and Mama Rose Marie. Hosted by Mr. Divabetic.

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New York City Pride March 2023

Thank you to all of the AMAZING ALLIES in my life. The ‘A” in LBGTQAI+ is an essential part of our community.

Yesterday morning I was overcome with emotion thinking about how vital my ALLIES have been in my life. I can’t imagine my life without them. My family, friends, co-workers, employers, neighbors, and leaders have walked beside me and provided me with strength, laughter, joy, love, and community with each step of my journey of self-acceptance.

Your love, friendship, support, kindness, and respect mean so much to me as I live my truth. You make it safe for me to show every shade of the RAINBOW in my heart and soul.

Sadly, many people around the globe, like me, don’t feel safe or enjoy the same freedoms. I’m grateful to their ALLIES too.

I appreciate my trans and nonbinary community members for feeling safe to be who they are in my presence.

The Pride March is an opportunity to see the vastness of our community. All the different sizes, shapes, ages, races, and genders of people in our community. It’s a vitamin to the soul to know you’re not alone.

I feel overcoming the SHAME associated with being gay is similar to the SHAME associated with a type 2 diabetes diagnosis. Feeling pride in something others think is shameful is a powerful tool for guiding you to live your best life. It’s not easy to overcome the inner negative thoughts and emotions, but it is worth it.

On this episode of Divabetic’s popular podcast, Mr. Divabetic spotlights LGBTQAI+ people living with, affected by, and at risk of diabetes with music from Indigo Girls.

Research shows that LGBTQAI+  people have unique health disparities and worse health outcomes than their heterosexual counterparts regarding diabetes care and education.

Guests include The Flood Girls & The Small Crimes of Tiffany Templeton, Author Richard Fifield, and Heart Health advocate and fabulous drag queen, Mutha Chucka, and Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDCES.

Mr. Divabetic stops by the Gay Pride March in New York to raise awareness for diabetes in a fun, new way. The first March was held in 1970 and has since become an annual civil rights demonstration. Over the years its purpose has broadened to include recognition of the fight against AIDS and to remember those we have lost to illness, violence, and neglect.
Mr. Divabetic plays his food game, Serve, Taste or Trash! with participants and crowd goers to help encourage people to read nutritional labels. You might be surprised by the facts. In the game, you are given three choices of popular snack foods: a Kit Kat White Chocolate bar, a Balance Bar (Yogurt Honey Peanut), and a Vita Coco Pure Coconut Water with Orange, 11. 1 fl oz. To play, you must decide which item you’d serve, which you’d taste, and which you’d trash. Can you tell which one contains the most sugar? Kit Kat White Chocolate bar contains and the Balance Bar (Yogurt Honey Peanut) both contain 18 grams of sugar and a Vita Coco Pure Coconut Water with Orange, 11. 1 fl oz. Contains 20 grams of sugar.

We’re talking about ‘Diabetes & Pride’ on this episode of Divabetic’s popular podcast with musical and identity inspiration from Ricky Martin.

Since Ricky Martin came out in 2010, he’s been a prominent voice for LGBTQ+ rights in the U.S. and his native Puerto Rico. Ricky Martin said, “I just wanna be free,” upon receiving GLAAD’s Vito Russo Award, which honors gay entertainers who promote equal rights. Martin opened up his life to Vanity Fair in its April 2012 issue and spoke candidly about his twins, Matteo and Valentino, and his longtime partner, Carlos Gonzalez.

As an openly gay man, Mr. Divabetic is honored to shine the spotlight on members of the LGBTQ+ community living with diabetes. Guests include Stephen Bernstein, Greg Rubin, Maria Salazar, Maya James, and the Charlie’s Angels of Outreach.

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Divabetic Dances to Jody Watley’s Beat

“If I’ve learned anything in this business, it’s that you have to be fearless,” says Grammy winner Jody Watley.

Let Jody Watley’s music and attitude inspire you to live your best diabetes life. She’s guaranteed to make you get up and move with many of her iconic hit songs.

A former Soul Train dancer, Jody Watley started as part of the Los Angeles-based vocal trio Shalamar, which scored a Top 10 single with The Second Time Around in 1979 and continued charting into the mid-’80s. Her first solo hit was Looking for a New Love.

When asked about her musical influences at the beginning of her career, she said, “Starting out, it was the music of Motown and of course, Diana Ross & The Supremes, The Temptations, Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye.”

Many people have speculated about what caused the group, Shalamar to break up. According to Howard Hewitt, “There was a point right when we were breaking up and [Benny Medina] said, ‘[Watley] said you guys got into an argument in front of this hotel in the UK, in London where you used to stay.’”

During this argument, Jody remembers that Howard told her, “that she would never be s–t without Shalamar.’”

Those hurtful words are partly responsible for why Jody decided to distance herself from Shalamar while embarking on her own solo career.

“The music business is very hard on women over 22. You really have to prove yourself every time you make a record,” she said. “Are you as vibrant as you used to be? Are you as sexy? So I really want to prove that a woman in her 30s can be all those things and more.”

She released a Number One Fitness video, Dance to Fitness 1999. Jody directs this workout to the beat of her own music, reminding viewers to complete street-style choreographed steps with a few positive reinforcements.. She considered the project more of a breakthrough than a marketing move. “There wasn’t one black person in a fitness video,” she recalls, “and I thought it would be great if I opened that door.”

When traveling, Jody says finding healthy options can be challenging. However, it is on her show riders that she can make these requests, mainly because of the variety of dietary lifestyles her band members have.

“My dad was a big salad person, and I love salads to this day. My love of vegetables and salads comes from my dad,” she said.

“If I wasn’t traveling, I would cook because I have never been a big fast food person. I cooked meals,” says the mother of two.

In the face of adversity, Jody Watley has overcome obstacles and succeeded. Her career spans over forty years, with nine solo studio albums, four worldwide tours, and several accolades, including a Grammy for Best New Artist in 1988, a Lifetime Achievement Award from Billboard Music Awards in 2008, and seven Billboard Hot 100 Top 10 hits.

This year, Jody Watley’s sixth album, Flower album celebrates the 25th Anniversary of its release. The album departed from the typical music her fans expected her to release. Reflecting on her new musical direction, she said, “I didn’t want to make another record that felt specifically more R&B at that point,”  in a Fly Global Music interview fifteen years ago. “I felt happy and wanted something groovy to reflect where I was, as always. I (had) wanted to make a cutting-edge, international dance record, with soul and excitement, modern! But, I said, ‘perhaps you should compromise more,’ and subsequently, the A&R (of Atlantic Records) had more of its way. Flower wasn’t the record I wanted to make at all, but I did the best with what I was presented with

She chose to work with select members of Organized Noize (Ivan Matias), Masters at Work (Louie Vega, Kenny Gonzalez), Tony! Toni! Toné! (D’Wayne Wiggins and Randall Wiggins) and Groove Theory (Bryce Wilson) as well as Rahsaan Patterson, Malik Pendleton, Cassandra Lucas, Phil Galdston, Deric Angelettie, and Derrick Edmonson to get down to the business of record making.

Our favorite song from her Flower album is Rahsaan Patterson’s Lovin’ You So.

Currently, Jody Watley hosts The Jody Watley Show, a 2-hour monthly show airs every second Sunday exclusively on SiriusXM’s The Groove at 6 PM (EST) / 3 PM (PST) and on the SiriusXM app on smartphones and other connected devices as well as online. Enjoy contemporary R&B and classics from the ’70s and ’80s, including Michael Jackson, Luther Vandross, Janet Jackson, Earth, Wind & Fire, Isley Brothers, the Gap Band, along with host Jody Watley, and more. 

Jody Watley’s story is one of overcoming the odds, the power of positivity, and defying expectations. She recently added a line of candles and an interior fragrance to her product line,  Sanctuary, inspired by the song of the same name on her Paradise album. She is also exploring a wellness box that complements her focus on self-care and well-being.

Need some inspiration to get back on track with your diabetes health goals? Tune in to Divabetic’s latest podcast on Healthy Swap suggestions.

With a few simple swaps, you can help live your best life while managing your diabetes. Our experts offer straightforward, simple, and fun swap ideas for drinks, medications, self-care, and fashion. Plus, we share style tips and words of inspiration to help you maintain a healthy habit.

Developing these habits isn’t always easy. Adapting to a new routine can be tricky, and it’s often tempting to want to return to old ways if we don’t see immediate results. One of the biggest mistakes people make when forming a new habit is taking on too much too quickly.  Focus on what’s working in your diabetes self-care plan before overhauling diabetes management. Instead of decluttering the entire house, why not focus on one room or closet? Why not focus on the calories you drink rather than everything you eat?  If you want to eat healthier, try replacing one dessert daily with a piece of fruit rather than cutting out sugar completely. If you’re going to get into hiking, start with a walk at lunchtime. Setting small goals you can achieve will help keep you motivated along the way.

Guests include Catherine Schuller, Poet Lorraine Brooks, Patricia Addie-Gentle RD, CDCES, MaryAnn Horst Nicolay, MEd, NDTR, and Mama Rose Marie. Hosted by Mr. Divabetic.

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Watermelon Mojito Mocktail Recipe by Splenda

Our friends at Splenda have done it again! They’ve made it possible to indulge in a taste of Summer without guilt. Enjoy this Watermelon Mojito Mocktail recipe by Splenda. 

Ingredients

4 cubes of fresh watermelon

4 mint leaves

1/2 teaspoon of  Splenda Liquid Sweetener

1 ounce lime juice

5 ounces of lime seltzer water

Instructions

Add watermelon, mint leaves, and Splenda Liquid Sweetener to a cocktail shaker and muddle to release the juices.

Add lime juice and ice and shake until chilled.

Strain over ice-filled glass. Top with lime seltzer water.

Garnish with a watermelon slice and fresh mint.

Get nutritional information and more great recipes at Splenda!

What is A Mocktail?

A mocktail is a cocktail-style beverage made without alcoholic ingredients. It’s an elevated version of the standard non-alcoholic drink. It’s also crafted with sodas, juices, herbs, syrups, and the same mixology methods and tools used for regular mixed drinks. The final product is a non-alcoholic beverage that should be enjoyed and savored, just like a well-mixed cocktail.

Alcohol and Diabetes

Many people with diabetes enjoy an alcoholic beverage.  But when drinking alcohol is combined with the medications most often used to treat diabetes—particularly insulin and sulfonylureas, low blood sugar  (hypoglycemia) can result. While a glass of wine with dinner probably isn’t a big deal, two mojitos on an empty stomach at happy hour is.

Ironically, several symptoms of hypoglycemia—such as slurred speech, drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty walking—are also symptoms of being drunk; it can be difficult to tell the two apart. And if you often have hypoglycemia unawareness, a condition you don’t recognize you’re going low, drinking becomes especially dicey. Timing may also be an issue, as hypoglycemia can strike hours after your last drink, especially if you’ve been exercising.

What Exactly is Moderate Drinking?

It’s one drink daily for women and up to two per day for men. However, that “drink” is much smaller than some think, just five ounces of wine, a 12-ounce beer, or one and a half ounces of 80-proof spirits.

The information above is not a strict and steadfast rule. There are no universal guidelines for drinking alcohol for people with diabetes. Talk to your doctor about your drinking habits and seek their help developing your guidelines.

Alcohol and Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is linked to diabetes. Over time, mismanaged diabetes damages the small blood vessels, causing the walls of the blood vessels to stiffen and malfunction. These changes contribute to high blood pressure.

Drinking too much alcohol can raise blood pressure to unhealthy levels. Having more than three drinks in one sitting temporarily raises blood pressure. Repeated binge drinking can lead to long-term increases in blood pressure.

What is Splenda ZERO Liquid Sweetener?

Splenda ZERO Liquid Sweetener has zero calories and dissolves easily in hot and cold beverages, sauces, glazes, and more. Its convenient size makes it easy to take with you anywhere, and its leak-free flip-top lid means no mess when you toss it in your purse, backpack, or briefcase Splenda delivers a variety of great-tasting solutions to help you achieve a healthy, balanced lifestyle without sacrificing taste.

We’re discussing healthy lifestyle swaps for people with diabetes on this episode of Divabetic’s podcast.

With a few simple swaps, you can help live your best life while managing your diabetes. Our experts offer straightforward, simple, and fun swap ideas for drinks, medications, self-care, and fashion. Plus, we share style tips and words of inspiration to help you maintain a healthy habit.

Developing these habits isn’t always easy. Adapting to a new routine can be tricky, and it’s often tempting to want to return to old ways if we don’t see immediate results. One of the biggest mistakes people make when forming a new habit is taking on too much too quickly.  Focus on what’s working in your diabetes self-care plan before overhauling diabetes management. Instead of decluttering the entire house, why not focus on one room or closet? Why not focus on the calories you drink rather than everything you eat?  If you want to eat healthier, try replacing one dessert daily with a piece of fruit rather than cutting out sugar completely. If you’re going to get into hiking, start with a walk at lunchtime. Setting small goals you can achieve will help keep you motivated along the way.

Guests include Catherine Schuller, Poet Lorraine Brooks, Patricia Addie-Gentle RD, CDCES, MaryAnn Horst Nicolay, MEd, NDTR, and Mama Rose Marie. Hosted by Mr. Divabetic.

Need a Summer tune?

Kylie Minogue has taken over the airwaves in my home with this catchy song!! Add it to your workout tape.

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Coney Island’s Mermaid Parade 2023

Mermaids of nearly every imaginable description (Swedish Fish singing ABBA and Mime-Maids) lined Surf Avenue in Coney Island for the 41st Mermaid Parade. 

It was an incredible display of art, body positivity, cleverness, and creativity.

This year’s parade is billed as the nation’s largest arts parade.  Hip-hop legend Kool Keith was its king, and city Cultural Affairs Commissioner Laurie Cumbo was its queen.

The main goal of the parade is to spread positivity and fun, and it continues to do so year after year.

The Mermaid Parade is all about body positivity. Body positivity is a movement that promotes acceptance of all bodies, regardless of size, shape, skin tone, gender, and physical abilities.

According to the Office on Women’s Health, a healthy body image means feeling good about looking and feeling comfortable in one’s body. Conversely, they report that having a negative body image can put one at a higher risk for mental health conditions, including eating disorders.

The true meaning of being positive about your body is self-acceptance and learning what is healthy specifically for you.

It’s a gathering of scantily clad folks who aren’t afraid to wear sequins, bare midriffs, fins, and sea-inspired costumes in broad daylight, with thousands of people watching.

The Mermaid Parade allows women to dress up as Drag Queens.

“Just like the Halloween parade — it’s all authentic New Yorkers. And this is an authentic New York event, she said.

The parade has been held nearly every year since 1983 but went virtual in 2020 and was canceled in 2021 because of the COVID pandemic.

The Mermaid Parade is a chance to get made up, express yourself, hear live music, see classic cars, and enjoy the creative spirit of New Yorkers.

Organizers estimate hundreds of thousands of people come out each year.

A ceremony on the beach also marks the start of the official summer swimming season on Coney Island.

Check out Divabetic’s Mystery podcast, Gypsies, Tramps & Peas.

Diabetes advocate turned reluctant amateur sleuth, Mr. Divabetic finally takes the plunge and ventures into a new career as a healthy caterer in Coney Island. 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 fish. Was 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, CDCES, MaryAnn Horst Nicolay MEd, NDTR, Mama Rose Marie, and Lorraine Brooks help the fruit suit-clad sleuth in this seaside adventure.

Divabetic Mysteries podcast features music from the original cast recording of ‘Gypsy’ courtesy of SONY Music.

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Habits by Lorraine Brooks

Poet Lorraine Brooks shares her poem about habits on Divabetic‘s Healthy Swaps podcast. We’re offering simple ideas to help you live your best diabetes life on our podcast.
We understand many people deal with diabetes distress and feel overwhelmed by the rentlessness of diabetes.

Feeling this way about your diabetes is understandable and it’s a natural reaction for anyone that’s been diagnosed with a long-term health condition.

Lots of people feel like this sometimes but it’s important you get help. If you don’t get support to help you cope, you’re more likely to reach burnout and that can be really serious. Please let us join you on the journey.

Habits by Lorraine Brooks

To do somethig once

Doesn’t make a habit yet
You have to repeat
Some habits are good
Like eating our vegetables
And counting our carbs
Bad habits die hard.
Our chooices become lifestyles.
And sometimes are poor
What is a habit
A behavior that binds us
But you can break free
To age with kindness
Cmes from having good habits
From when we are young.
I dont mind aging
Because I have formed habits\
That serve e well now
I’m aging like wine
Rich and mellow and sparkling
My habits paid off
I know I’m OK
I have worked hard to get here
And I will not quit

Be Kind To Yourself

Try to manage your expectations about your blood sugar levels and A1c test results and set smaller, more realistic goals.

It also helps to stop using phrases like ‘good’ or ‘bad’ blood sugar – as this can constantly feel like you’ve done something wrong. Talk about high or low blood sugar instead.

Taking time for yourself, like booking a massage or setting an evening aside for a long bath can help you relax.

We’re sharing healthy swap ideas on this episode of Divabetic‘s podcast. With a few simple swaps, you can help live your best life while managing your diabetes. Our experts offer straightforward, simple, and fun swap ideas for drinks, medications, self-care, and fashion. Plus, we share style tips and words of inspiration to help you maintain a healthy habit.

Developing these habits isn’t always easy. Adapting to a new routine can be tricky, and it’s often tempting to want to return to old ways if we don’t see immediate results. One of the biggest mistakes people make when forming a new habit is taking on too much too quickly.  Focus on what’s working in your diabetes self-care plan before overhauling diabetes management. Instead of decluttering the entire house, why not focus on one room or closet? Why not focus on the calories you drink rather than everything you eat?  If you want to eat healthier, try replacing one dessert daily with a piece of fruit rather than cutting out sugar completely. If you’re going to get into hiking, start with a walk at lunchtime. Setting small goals you can achieve will help keep you motivated along the way.

Guests include Catherine Schuller, Poet Lorraine Brooks, Patricia Addie-Gentle RD, CDCES, MaryAnn Horst Nicolay, MEd, NDTR, and Mama Rose Marie. Hosted by Mr. Divabetic.

Clarence Waldron talks about his stroke, recovery, working as Senior Editor and Writer of Jet Magazine, and his memories of Luther Vandross and Aretha Franklin in this YouTube video. Twenty years ago, Clarence interviewed Luther’s mother, Mrs. Mary Ida Vandross, for Jet Magazine after Luther suffered a stroke due to mismanaged type 2 diabetes.

 

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Luther Vandross’s Dance With My Father Celebrates 20th Year Anniversary

This year marks two decades since the release of Luther‘s soulful and emotional ballad “Dance with My Father.” It’s also the twentieth anniversary of Luther’s devastating stroke related to mismanaged type 2 diabetes. Luther suffered a stroke at age 52.

I found Luther on the floor of his Fifth Avenue apartment after he suffered a stroke. Many have speculated that Luther experienced the stroke several hours before my arrival. Sadly, his stroke damaged Luther’s motor skills and mental abilities, leaving him unable to perform on stage again.

At the time, I had no idea that mismanaged diabetes could cause such tragic health outcomes even though, I had a family history of diabetes. When the media reported that Luther suffered a stroke but failed to mention it’s linked to diabetes, I felt was angry. I wanted to warn Luther fans about the connection so they could avoid a similar fate.  Luther’s stroke changed the course of my life. I became Lutehr’s caregiver, a passionate diabetes advocate, and the founder of the nonprofit, Divabetic. Every day I strive to help inspire and empower people with diabetes to take charge of their diabetes health. I know it’s not easy. Some days are more challenging than others, mainly when unexpected setbacks occur. But ignoring your diabetes is not the answer.

“Dance With My Father” is a testament to the power of mismanaged diabetes to decimate a family tree. Luther lost his father at a tender age due to mismanaged diabetes too.

I lost my father four years ago to bone cancer. I am grateful for the many years my father and I spent together working on Divabetic outreach. We saw the power of educating the generations in families to prevent diabetes health complications from occurring.

“Dance With My Father”  is co-written by Luther Vandross and GRAMMY-winning singer, songwriter, and producer Richard Marx, and resonated with millions of listeners worldwide, touching hearts and earning Vandross a posthumous GRAMMY for Song of the Year in 2004.

https://youtu.be/OiNSRU-smNI

To honor Luther’s enduring music legacy, Primary Wave Music, The Luther Vandross Estate, and Legacy Recordings/Sony Music have released the song in high-resolution Dolby Atmos for an enhanced audio experience that fans can stream and download from several platforms.

Visit LutherVandross.com to create and share personally customized Father’s Day memories using the ‘What My Father Taught Me’ meme generator with the hashtag #DanceWithMyFather20. Additionally, on the site, you can purchase items from a limited edition gift guide, encapsulating the soul of this unforgettable song. Commemorate Father’s Day and Black Music Month by celebrating this iconic piece of Black music history. Let’s unite as fans, saluting Luther Vandross’ lasting legacy and the special connection between fathers and their children.

I will take every opportunity to raise awareness for diabetes and diabetes health-related complications such as stroke.

Senior Writer and Editor of Jet Magazine, Clarence Waldron, talks about his stroke and its recovery.

Twenty years ago, Clarence interviewed Luther’s mother, Mrs. Mary Ida Vandross, for Jet Magazine after Luther suffered a stroke due to mismanaged type 2 diabetes. Clarence’s story is an excellent reminder of why it’s essential to ACT F.A.S.T. if you or a loved one is experiencing a stroke. The acronym FAST (Facial drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulties, and Time) has been used by the National Stroke Association, American Heart Association, and others to educate the public on detecting stroke symptoms.

Earlier treatment results in a greater chance of recovery, a reduced likelihood of permanent disability, and a lesser need for extensive rehabilitation. You’ll quickly hear Clarence’s upbeat attitude and ferocious appetite for music and divas have served him well during his recovery.

Throughout this podcast, we feature music from Aretha Franklin’s Get It Right album and Luther Vandross’s Live At Radio City Music Hall 2003 20th Anniversary Edition album courtesy of SONY Music.

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