Deep Fried Cozy Mystery ‘A Frying Shame’ Is Half Baked

At the midway point of the mystery,   ‘A Frying Shame,’ by author Linda Reilly the story began to lose it’s taste faster than deep fried food after it gets cold.

“The town of Wrensdale is abuzz with excitement when Steeltop Foods sponsors a cooking contest to promote its new product, the Flavor Dial. With a $25,000 prize at stake, all the contestants are on edge, including Talia Marby, owner of Fry Me A Sliver. She hopes her mini deep-fried apple pies will win her the money to pay off the renovations on her restaurant. But when Norma Ferguson wins with her flaky-top chicken stew, the tensions dial up even more.

After Norma is found dead at her cooking station, the police suspect a losing contestant got a little too hot under the collar. Now it’s crunch time as Talia works to catch the killer and clear her name before another cook gets burned. Includes delicious recipes!”

Several lines in this cozy mystery such as, “You should have kept your nose out of things and stayed in the kitchen, like a proper woman supposed is to” are prime examples of why I wanted to put this book  in a deep fryer. But as an avid reader who also happens to be a diabetes advocate that’s about all I’m going to put into the fryer because the more fried food you eat, the more likely you are to suffer from Type 2 diabetes and heart disease, reveals new research.

I know a lot of people read cozy mysteries featuring recipes for ‘escape’ but I still don’t want to encourage Reilly’s readers to make their exit in an ambulance.

A U.S.-based study team compared people who ate fried food less than once a week with those who gobbled things like fries, fried chicken, or other deep-fried snacks four to six times a week and foound their risk for Type 2 diabetes and coronary heart disease jump 39% and 23%, respectively. The risks rose even more for people who ate fried food on a daily basis

The good new is that foods fried in trans-fat-free oils—now offered at many restaurants since FDA cracked down on trans fats—may not present the same health hazards. Cooking at home with fresh oils might also limit your exposure to unhealthy compounds.

Still love the fryer?

Okay, deep fried ‘taters might be tempting, but carrot fries taste just as good. Roast your carrots and top them with some fresh Parmesan and basil for a sweet and savory treat that packs only 83 calories per serving. Want more options? Try these seven other French fry recipes you’ll lovePhoto and recipe: Alexa Schirm / Life by Daily Burn

I’d like to add that the ending oft the ‘Frying Shame’ makes finishing the book worth it.  The killer gets  just what he or she deserves. I loved it.

I picked this book up at the New York Public library because I’ve started working on a new Mister Divabetic Mystery podcast. My goal is to write a compelling cozy mystery packed with diabetes self-care advice from qualified diabetes educators. I also like to include delicious healthy recipes from several of my favorite chefs such as Chef Robert ‘The Happy Diabetic’ Lewis, Holly Clegg and Stacey ‘The Diabetic Pastry Chef’ Harris to name a few.

LISTEN NOW: Mister Divabetic Mystery podcast: ‘Suspect Boulevard’,  The happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic hopes to inspire you to become a Diabetes Detective will this third installment of Diabetes Mystery  Theater podcast. Throughout the podcast we will spotlight the wonderful music by the National Philaharmonic Orchestra under the direction of Charles Gerhardt courtesy of SONY MUSIC.

 

Country Music Singer Loretta Lynn Suffers A Stroke

Country music singer Loretta Lynn suffered a stroke at her home in Hurricane Mills, Tennessee. She is currently under medical care and is responsive and expected to make a full recovery. Loretta, who just celebrated her 85th birthday, has been advised by her doctors to stay off the road while she is recuperating.

May might be Stroke Awareness Month, but strokes happen every month. In fact, in the U.S., a stroke happens every 40 seconds, with someone dying from stroke every four minutes, according to the National Stroke Foundation.

When it comes to strokes, time is everything. Minutes can mean the difference between life, disability (stroke is the leading cause of adult disability in the U.S.) and death (stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the U.S.) That’s because strokes occur when parts of your brain cannot get oxygen-carrying blood. Think of a stroke as cutting off the air supply for brain cells. The longer they go without oxygen, the more likely they are to die. And brain cells aren’t like soap opera characters. Once they pass they do not come back to life.

There are two general ways that blood supply can be cut off: one is a blood clot leading to what’s called an ischemic stroke and the other is a blood vessel leaking or rupturing, which is called a hemorrhagic stroke because there is bleeding. The treatment for a stroke? Recognize it as quickly as possible and save those brain cells by trying to rapidly restore blood flow. For an ischemic stroke, using blood clot-dissolving medications (tissue plasminogen activator or tPA) can work. Surgery or interventional radiology procedures may help either remove a clot or stop bleeding.

One way of remembering the signs of a stroke and what to do is FAST, as described by the National Stroke Association:

  • FACE: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
  • ARMS: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
  • SPEECH: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is their speech slurred or strange?
  • TIME: If you observe any of these signs, call 9-1-1 immediately.

LISTEN: Diabetes Late Nite inspired by Della Reese. We’re talking about ways to overcome the initial fears associated with a diabetes diagnosis.  In 2000, Della was officially diagnosed with diabetes after collapsing on the set of the hit TV show “Touched By An Angel”.  Guests include Diabetes Diabetes Alert Dog Trainer and Author from Chilbrook Kennels, Debby Kay, Central Farm Markets Co-Founders Debra Moser and Mitch Berliner, Master Hairstylist Karline Ricketts, the Charlie’s Angels of Outreach, Poet Lorraine Brooks and Mama Rose Marie.

Throughout the podcast we will be featuring selected songs from Della Reese’s albums courtesy of SONY Music.

Latino ‘One Day At A Time’ Comedy Fights Stigma of Mental Health

Netflix’s Latino reboot of the popular sitcom ‘One Day at A Time’ from the 1970’s takes on mental health issues facing women and the stigma associated with it.

The new series centers on three generations of a Cuban American family. Justina Machado (“Six Feet Under”) stars as Penelope, a war veteran and recently single mother of two children, 14-year-old Elena (Isabella Gomez) and younger brother Alex (Marcel Ruiz). Rita Moreno  stars as Penelope’s ‘diva-ish’, meddling mother who moves in to help.

After being prescribed medication for mental health, Penelope admits that most Cubans don’t follow their doctor’s orders when it comes to taking medication.

At the end of the episode, Penelope tells her mother that she started taking her medication.

https://youtu.be/wNFFleycS8k

Why is this important?

As a community, Latinos are less likely to seek mental health treatment. A 2001 Surgeon General’s report found that only 20% of Latinos with symptoms of a psychological disorder talk to a doctor about their concerns. Only 10% contact a mental health specialist. Yet, without treatment, certain mental health conditions can worsen and become disabling.

Overall, the Latino community does not talk about mental health issues as reported by the National Alliance of Mental Illness  (NAMI). Subsequently, there is little information about this topic.

Many Latinos do not seek treatment because they don’t recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health conditions or know where to find help. This lack of information also increases the stigma associated with mental health issues. Many Latinos do not seek treatment for fear of being labeled as “locos” (crazy) or as having a mental health condition because this may cause shame.

Common mental health disorders among Latinos are generalized anxiety disorder, major depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcoholism. Additionally, Latina high school girls have high rates of suicide attempts.

Most people think of diabetes as a physical condition and have never really thought about the mental aspects with living with the condition according to Mark Heyman PhD, CDE.  Even some people with diabetes are surprised that there are organizations like CDMH that focus on diabetes and mental health. They know that living with diabetes is hard for them, but often they are surprised to hear that their concerns are actually (and unfortunately) quite common.

Can a TV comedy help fight the stigma of mental health in the Latino community?

Although the answer remains to be seen, it’s important to note that twenty years ago another TV sitcom had a tremendous impact on different community facing a stigma.

Ellen DeGeneres’s Groundbreaking Coming Out on her sitcom Ellen. “The Puppy Episode” was watched by an estimated 44 million people, nearly three times the show’s usual ratings.

Ellen DeGeneres told the Associated Press during an interview reflecting on the episode’s 20th anniversary. “I suddenly said, ‘Why am I being, you know, ashamed of who I am just to be successful and famous in society’s eyes?’”

Many in the LGBT community have credited Ellen DeGeneres for making them feel comfortable with themselves and their sexuality, including Eric Marcus, creator and host of the podcast “Making Gay History.”

“For everyday people,” Marcus told the AP, “Ellen made gay okay.”

Ellen DeGeneres spoke to Diane Sawyer on 20/20 and said, “I decided this was not going to be something that I was going to live the rest of my life being ashamed of.”

Believe it or not, Gloria Estefan’s take on the original theme song and gives it a flavorful update.

The original ‘One Day At A Time’, developed by Lear and created by Whitney Blake and Allan Manings, ran on CBS for nine seasons. It starred Bonnie Franklin as the divorced mother and co-starring Valerie Bertinelli and Pat Harrington.

Bunions & Diabetes

Chronically high blood sugar (glucose) levels can be associated with serious complications in people who have diabetes. The feet are especially at risk.

Dr. Michele Summers Colon known as ‘The Holistic Podiatrist’ discusses two common foot issues for people with diabetes, on April’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast.

A bunion is a common condition that involves an abnormal, bony bump at the base of the big toe, causing the joint to swell outward and become painful. The big toe may also turn inward toward the second toe as a result of the enlarged joint, which can then lead to difficulty walking, ingrown toenails and corns and calluses.

Although bunions are not usually a serious condition, they can be painful and embarrassing. If left untreated, they will usually grow larger and more painful over time. It is important to seek medical attention and discuss treatment options with your doctor.

Dr. Michele says, “bunions and hammertoes are genetic. Certain shoes can make the problem worse if you already have them but shoes won’t cause them.”

Bunions can form when there is an improper balance of forces exerted on the joints of the foot, causing instability in the joint of the big toe.

Surgery is only thing that will put the toes back in place.

Some people have a bunion but they don’t have a pain at all and they don’t need surgery,” says Dr. Michele. She adds, “You have to think about your pain level, are you getting pressure points and/or can you even wear shoes. When you answer those questions you can determine if you need surgery.”

Several diabetes foot-related problems can be prevented by taking careful steps to observe and care for your feet. Keeping tight management of your  blood sugar levels (in the ranges advised by your doctor), and following your recommended diet and exercise program are the best way to prevent all complications of diabetes, including foot problems.

LISTEN: April’s Diabetes Late Nite featuring music by Lang Lang. Guests include Dr. Michele Summer Colon, the Charlie’s Angels of Outreach and Mama Rose Marie. Hosted by Mr. Divabetic.

Tune in to our Diabetes Mystery podcast, “Gypsies, Tramps & Peas” in September to learn more about Diabetes Foot Health.

Test Your ‘Diabetes IQ’ with These Tricky Questions from the Easter Parade

I had a great time raising awareness for diabetes in a fun, new way at this year’s Annual Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival in New York on Easter Sunday. It was the first straight year in a row that we took to the streets to educate and entertain participants.

In 2012, I filmed my very first YouTube at the Easter Parade. Now, I have my own ‘Mr. Divabetic’ YouTube channel (!) featuring videos from various parades and festivals in New York, Philadelphia and Washington DC.

How much do you know about Diabetes Health & Wellness? Test your ‘Diabetes IQ’ with 13 Mr. Divabetic Questions from 2017 Easter Parade:

1. What was Mary Tyler Moore’s character name on the Dick Van Dyke Show?

A. Laura Petrie

B. Laura Ingalls

C. Laura  Spencer

2. Which food product doesn’t contain gluten?

A. fritos

B. soy sauce

C. Velveeta 

3. People with diabetes are at low risk for developing glaucoma?

A. True

B. False

4. Which food product contains the most sodium?

A. hot dog

B. cornflakes (1 cup)

C. soy sauce (1 tablespoon)

5. Once eye disease starts, it cannot be stopped

A. True

B. False

6. Diabetic eye disease usually has early warning signs

A. True

B. False

7. If you have Diabetic Retinopathy …

A. You may notice changes in your vision right away

B. You may never notice any changes in your vision

C. You may not notice change in your vision at first

8. Diabetes-related eye diseases include:

A. Diabetic Retinopathy

B. Cataract

C. Glaucoma

D. All of the above

9. Which what organ in the body produces insulin?

A. Liver

B. Spleen

C. Pancreas

10. How many times does a heart beat in a lifetime?

A. 2.5 Million

B. 2.5 Billion

C. 2.5 Trillion

11. Shoes with heels should will be no more than…

A. 1 inch high

B. 1 1/2 inches high

C. 2 inches high

D. 2 1/2  inches high

12. One avocado contains how many servings?

A. 1 Serving

B. 3 Servings

C. 5 Servings

13. How much blood do your kidneys filter every day?

A. 1 Gallon

B. 50 Quarts

C. 200 Quarts

To mark this historic milestone at Divabetic, hat designer Joe Murray created a special ‘Pineapple Top Hat’ for me to top off my outfit. (Check out my new 18 Carot Fruit Suit tuxedo jacket!)

Don’t let the parade pass you by!  Check out our Facebook Live Videos (Divabetic) to catch all the sights and sounds from the Easter Parade with guests Divabetic Image & Style Advisor, Catherine Schuller AICI, CIP, the Salad Bar Superstar, Aida Romaine and more!

ANSWERS: 1. A. Laura Petrie. Actress Mary Tyler Moore was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes just before ‘The Mary Tyler Moore Show’ launched. If Mary could take it on with a smile, so can we! 2. A. Fritos 3. B. FALSE: Glaucoma is almost twice as likely to occur in people with diabetes than in those without the disease. 4. C. Soy Sauce. One tablespoon typically contains about 1,000 milligrams of sodium—nearly half of the recommended limit for sodium intake in an entire day—soy sauce is indeed a high-sodium food. 5. B. FALSE 6.B. FALSE 7. C. You may not notice change in your vision at first  8. D. All of the above 9. C. Pancreas. Your pancreas maintains your body’s blood glucose (sugar) balance. Primary hormones of the pancreas include insulin and glucagon, and both regulate blood glucose levels. 10. B. 2.5 Billion 11. B. 1 1/2 inches high according to the Dr. Michele Summers Colon – ’The Holistic Podiatrist’ 12. C. 5 Servings 13. C. 200 Quarts

Raising Awareness for Diabetes Related Eye Disease at NYC Easter Parade

For the fifth year in a row, I’’ll be raising awareness for diabetes in a fun, new way at this year’s Annual Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival in New York on Sunday, April 16, 2017, 12:30 PM.

We will discussing symptoms, causes and treatments for diabetes related eye disease.

Did you know that diabetic retinopathy is a  health complication of diabetes and a leading cause of blindness?

Diabetic retinopathy occurs when diabetes damages the tiny blood vessels inside the retina, the tissue at the back of the eye. Diabetes also can cause leaking of blood vessels in the eyes, which leads to scarring and loss of vision.

How much do you know about diabetes related eye disease?

Test your knowledge with 2 questions from Mr. Divabetic’s Diabetes “Eye”-Q quiz courtesy of dLife

ANSWER: D (All of the above)  Diabetic retinopathy is when there is damage to the blood vessels in the retina. Cataract is a clouding of the eye’s lens. Cataracts develop at an earlier age in people with diabetes. Glaucoma is an increase in fluid pressure inside the eye that leads to optic nerve damage and loss of vision. A person with diabetes is nearly twice as likely to get glaucoma as other adults.

ANSWER: B (False)  Tightly managing your blood sugars is one way to help prevent diabetic eye disease or its progression. Controlling elevated blood pressure and cholesterol can also reduce the risk of vision loss. People who have good control of their diabetes are at much lower risk for diabetic eye disease.

In people with diabetes, high blood sugar damages the walls of the small blood vessels in the eye, altering their structure and function. As part of this condition, called diabetic retinopathy, these vessels may thicken, leak, develop clots, close off, or grow balloon-like defects called microaneurysms. Frequently, fluid accumulates in the part of the retina used in tasks such as reading; this condition is called macular edema. In advanced cases, the retina is robbed of its blood supply and grows new, but defective, vessels — a process called neovascularization. These fragile vessels can bleed, creating vision-impairing hemorrhages, scar tissue, and separation of the retina from the back of the eye (retinal detachment). The new vessels can also block fluid flow within the eye, producing glaucoma.

Pain or pressure in one or both of your eyes could be a sign of damage to your retinas. Blurry or double vision, dark spots or blank areas and trouble seeing out of the corners of your eyes are other symptoms to watch for.

If you have diabetic retinopathy, at first you may notice no changes to your vision. But over time, diabetic retinopathy can get worse and cause vision loss.

It’s important that anyone who has diabetes gets annual eye exams from an ophthalmologist so that retinopathy can be detected early.

Diabetes & Easter: Easter can be a difficult time to have diabetes, not least because of the temptation READ MORE

Don’t let the parade pass you by!  Tune in to Facebook Live (Divabetic) to catch all the sights and sounds live from the Red Carpet with guests Divabetic Image & Style Advisor, Catherine Schuller AICI, CIP, diabetes advocate Laura Laria and Harlem’s Heaven hat designer, Evetta Petty and more! 

Never been to the New York Easter Parade?

“Sunday best” gets new meaning during this annual procession, wherein participants show off elaborately constructed hats— shaped like gigantic Easter baskets, the NYC skyline and the Coney Island Cyclone! The tradition started in the mid-1800s, when high-society ladies would promenade in their Easter finery after church, and has since evolved into a showcase for millinery.

Will Generic Insulin be Part of Donald Trump’s Legacy?

One of the biggest concerns facing people with diabetes is what’s will happen to their healthcare under the new Trump administration. I interviewed Mary Ann Horodowicz RD, LDN, MBA, CDE, CECabout this topic on January’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast.

Mary Ann hinted that a possible silver lining to any repeals and replacement of Obamacare might be generic insulin. Most people agreed that a medication as old as insulin, which has been available since 1921, ought to have at least one generic brand. But there is not.

In their report, published March 19 in the New England Journal of Medicine, Riggs and his colleague Dr. Jeremy Greene describe how the unique development of insulin allowed pharmaceutical companies to continually improve the medication while extending patents for decades. Generic drugs cannot be made until a patent on a brand-name drug expires.

Could President Elect Trump change that?

In the midst of Time Magazine’s 6,000-word “Person of the Year” profile of Donald Trump, the president-elect said, “I’m going to bring down drug prices…I don’t like what has happened with drug prices.”

Donald Trump has stated repeatedly that he strongly wants to cut through the red tape at the FDA. If this happens it could mean streamlining pipeline for diabetes drug development and other life-saying medications given the fact that there are over 4,000 drugs awaiting approval.

The Trump administration also wants to remove barriers that hamper the importation of cheaper drugs that are made abroad. To make this work, the FDA would have to be expanded to have the capacity to investigate foreign drug-making facilities more than it already does. This idea also would require Congressional approval, and that would again most likely require Democrats to side with Trump to pass.

Hear more of my interview with Mary Ann Horodowicz by clicking HERE

 


Diabetes Late Nite inspired by Alicia Keys. Guests include Mary Ann Hodorowicz RD, CDE, Lori Shemek PhD, the Charlie’s Angels of Outreach and Mama Rose Marie.

The Perfect Bubbles, Buffet & Blouse for a Divabetic New Year’s Day Brunch

Sure, it can be difficult at times to enjoy the holidays when you’re living with diabetes especially if you feel like you’re deprived of your favorite foods. Why not take the opportunity on New Year’s Day to change your mindset as well as someone else’s about what healthy tastes like?

For the past eleven years we’ve been promoting  a ‘New Attitude’ about living with well diabetes to prevent a diabetes health-related complication at our live events, on our podcasts and Divabetic blog! Now we’re sharing our decade’s worth of our ‘diva brand of diabetes outreach’ advice and suggestions with you so that you won’t have to avoid the holidays in order to take charge of our diabetes.

We asked our favorite experts, Catherine Schuller AICI, CIP, ‘The Decadent Diabetic’ aka Chef Ward Arpel, Wine & Spirits Expert Samantha Shaken Baker and certified diabetes educators, Patrica Addie-Gentle RN, CDE and Susan Weiner MS, RD, CDE, CDN, to share advice on how you can kick off the New Year in style without compromising your diabetes health.

Here are our suggestions for the Perfect Bubbles, Blouse & Buffet for a “Divabetic New Year’s Day Brunch”:

First up, our good friend, the Decadent Diabetic, Chef Ward Alper to share some of his fabulous recipes to help you create a fantastic New Year’s Day Brunch. Chef Ward Alper retired to Albuquerque after being a professional chef in Boston and New York City. He blogs as “The Decadent Diabetic: Taking Back My Life and Table,” thedecadentdiabetic.com. Chef Ward is “famous” for his fantastic and festive New Year’s day buffet brunches. Chef Ward says, “the trick to entertaining with or without diabetes is to keep the food interesting and small enough for the guests not to have to fuss with balancing a drink and the food.”

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Whether you are hosting a holiday gathering or have been invited to one, don’t let Diabetes get in your way. It is too easy to create something over the top delicious and low in carbohydrates, NOT just for you but for ALL your guests to savor.

If you are hosting a holiday party and Diabetes is a consideration, there are a few things to consider (beyond “Am I nuts?”)

Mommy-Mocktail

1-Cocktails or Mocktails?

Every person with Diabetes is different in respect to alcohol. Some of us have no problem with it lowering our blood sugars, others get too low, too fast.

I suggest having both.  Just make it look festive. Even sparkling water (rather than higher sodium club soda) can look really festive with a slice of lime or pineapple balanced on the top. Try diet cranberry juice blend spritzers with a slice of fruit or a spritzer of TROP 50 spritzer garnished with pineapple. You might be surprised with people saying: “I’ll have what he is having.”

2Think dishes you can do ahead

Nothing spoils a party than having to cram hours of work in just before your guests arrive. Plan on using the same ingredients in a couple of different ways. Make the stuffings for tomatoes or mushrooms a day ahead

3-Take Ina Garten’s advice and make some, buy some.

Your invitees might be thinking: “Oh dear, Debbie has Diabetes. We will be eating rabbit food all night.” Surprise them with a platter of chunks of oven roasted turkey from the deli and jumbo olives stuffed with almonds. Do a platter of smoked salmon with a flavored whipped cream cheese. Serve these with simple homemade crackers made from low carbohydrate tortillas or Joseph’s lavash, brushed with garlic and olive oil and your favorite herb.

4- Keep it at room temperature

Why worry if Maxine is going to lose her balance in her Jimmy Cho shoes and knock over the sterno burner. Enjoy your guests and your party instead of guarding the chafing dishes.

5-How much should I make?

Depending on how many items you have on your buffet table, consider having 9-11 pieces per person, 2-4 hours event, 13-16 pieces per person; 4+ hour event, dinner replacement.

And as always this season, ENJOY, be happy, be healthy and above all…BE DECADENT.

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The MENU 

Our “Divabetic New Year’s Day Brunch” starts with a sharp as a tack cocktail sauce with fresh vegetables

Homemade Cocktail Sauce by The Decadent Diabetic 

Makes 1 ½ cup- serves 8

carbohydrates 2 grams per Tablespoon

Chef’s notes: Most cocktail sauces for seafood are made with ketchup or chili sauce. While delicious, they have 5 grams of carbohydrates per tablespoon. This Homemade recipe is far lower with ONLY 2 grams per tablespoon. Tomato is the carbohydrate culprit here.

What you are doing with this recipe is basically making your own homemade ketchup.

6 oz. (approx. 2/3 cup) tomato paste

2 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar

2 Tablespoons sweetener of choice, or to taste

salt and pepper to tatse and your doctor’s recommendation

½  teaspoons garlic powder

¾ teaspoons onion  powder

½  cup water

3- 4 tsp. prepared horse radish

How to prepare the recipe:

Place all ingredients in a bowl. Stir to blend completely.

Pistachio coated Feta and Cream Cheese Balls by The Decadent Diabetic 

Makes 16 Balls

Net Carbohydrates   2 per ball

4 – ounces , shelled pistachio nuts

2- 8 0unce packages cream cheese

6- ounces Feta cheese

2- tsp. dry basil

1 -Tsp. dry oregano

1 -Tbsp. fresh parsley chopped

Note: While I usually like to use fresh herbs, this recipe gets too wet and it is hard to shape the balls and have them hold together.

I suspect that this recipe can also be made with goat cheese but my friend Peter ruined goat cheese for me by suggesting it” tasted like you were licking a goat”.

How I prepare this Recipe.

Bring cheeses to room temperature

Very simple: Chop the pistachios into very small bits and place on a dish. Combine all of the remaining ingredients. Refrigerate until firm. Using a small ice cream scoop or a tablespoon, scoop the cheese out and form into a ball. Roll the balls in the chopped pistachio nuts and chill until firm again. Serve with Lavash or tortilla chips.

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Cucumber and Radish Crunches by The Decadent Diabetic 

Serving size 6 pieces

Net Carbohydrates 5g.

Chef’s Note: The first time I entertained guests after my diagnosis, I went into a panic about what to make as an Hors d’ oeuvre. I came up with this very simple little bite that is so good that I never hesitate to serve it. It is a flash to prepare. I use the remaining cheese to spread on a low carbohydrate lavash or tortilla. Just roll it up and slice it to make pinwheels.

1 7-8 inch long cucumber, peeled and sliced into ½ inch thick pieces

1 8 ounce pkg.. cream cheese

1-2 Tbsp. minced shallot (or onion or scallion)

1 stalk of celery minced

5-6 radishes minced + 1-2 sliced thinly

1- Tbsp. fresh parsley, minced

Salt and pepper to taste.

How I prepare this Recipe:

Soften the cream cheese to room temperature

Mince the onion, celery radish, and parsley together and add to the softened cream cheese.

Spoon ½ tsp. of the mixture on each cucumber slice and top with ½ of a radish slice. Refrigerate until set.

Use remaining mixture on a sheet of lavash or on lavash chips or save for use on your morning toast.

There are as many variations on the filling as you have an imagination to create. Curry comes to mind as does spinach.

Divabetic Tip: Being active is your secret holiday weapon; it can help make up for eating more than usual and reduce stress during this most stressful time of year. Get moving with friends and family, such as taking a walk after a holiday meal or buffet.

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Tortilla/ Lavash Baskets filled with Shrimp by The Decadent Diabetic 

Makes 16 cups  < 0g carbohydrate per cup

1 _ sheet JOSEPH’S  lavash or low carbohydrate tortillas

2 – Tbsp. olive oil

1 – tsp. dry dill weed

1 – tsp. dry parsley flakes

½ – tsp. garlic powder

HOW I PREPARE THE RECIPE:

Pre heat oven to 375°F

Combine olive oil and spices. Brush the lavash. Pat off any excess oil from the lavash. Cut the lavash into 16 equal pieces (8 for a tortilla).

Push the pieces into a mini cupcake tin that has been sprayed with Pam.

Bake (WATCHING CAREFULLY) at 375°F for 8-10 minutes until the cups are LIGHTLY browned.

Invert cups onto a paper towel and let cool completely.

When completely cool, you can fill with recipe below, meatballs, salsa, or just use your imagination.

Roasted Shrimp with Cucumber and Dill Dressing by The Decadent Diabetic 

Fills 16 cups  < 0g carbohydrate per cup

2 – Tbsp. Mayonnaise

1- tsp. fresh lemon juice

zest from ½ lemon

¼ -tsp. Dijon mustard

1 – tsp. FRESH dill weed

¼  – tsp. ground black pepper

4 – ounces (after roasting) roasted shrimp

1 – medium cucumber

HOW I PREPARE THE RECIPE:

1-ROASTING SHRIMP:

Preheat oven to 400°F.

Combine raw, peeled, shrimp, 1 clove grated garlic, 1- Tsp. chopped parsley, and 1 Tbsp. olive oil. Place in one layer on a baking sheet and roast for 5 minutes at 400. Let cool before adding to the rest of the recipe.

2-SAUCE:

Combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, mustard, dill, and black pepper.

3-TO ASSEMBLE:

Peel cucumber. Using a teaspoon, remove any seeds. Chop cucumber into VERY small dice.

Cut shrimp into small pieces (just slightly larger than cucumber dice. Reserve any liquid in the baking sheet.

Combine Sauce, shrimp, and cucumber. Mix well and spoon into lavash cups.

No Cook Mediterranean Cheese Pate by The Decadent Diabetic 

Serves 8

Net Carbohydrates 2g per serving

Chef’s Note: Don’t let the title fool you, this is a snap to make.

If you want it to look more Christmas –y, you can certainly use green olives

I suspect that this recipe can also be made with goat cheese but my friend Peter ruined goat cheese for me by suggesting it “tasted like you were licking a goat”.

3 TBSP. Chopped Sundried Tomatoes (about 6-8 pieces)

1 TBSP. olive oil

1- 8 0unce packages cream cheese

3- ounces Feta cheese

2- tsp. dry basil

1 -Tsp. dry oregano

1 -TBSP. fresh parsley chopped

½ cup pitted olives, cut in half

How I prepare this Recipe.

Combine olive oil and chopped sun dried tomatoes and set aside.

Bring cheeses to room temperature.

Using an electric beater, combine cheeses and spices. Stir in  ½ of the sun dried tomatoes.

Line a 5-6 inch flat bottomed bowl (a ramekin works perfectly) with waxed paper or parchment paper.

Arrange the cut olives in a circular pattern over the bottom of the dish, rounded side down. Spoon the cheese mixture into the bowl and press down lightly to make good contact with the olives. Refrigerate at least 2 hours but over- night works as well Run a knife around the edge of the cheese and invert onto a dish. Place remaining chopped tomatoes in the center.

Plaque Assemble´e (Put it together platter) by The Decadent Diabetic 

Don’t make it, assemble it. Go to the best deli/appetizer store and get meats or smoked fish or little bites like grape leaves and put it together piece by piece, bit by bit. Make it a centerpiece of beautiful food.

Cherry Tomatoes Stuffed with Crab Salad by The Decadent Diabetic 

Makes 24 servings

Net Carbohydrates 2 per tomato half

Chef’s Notes: I like to do these with cocktail tomatoes. They are somewhere in size between a cherry tomato and a small tomato. If you use cherry tomatoes you will make about 36 servings.

The tomato is the thing. If crab is not in your budget, or you are allergic to shellfish, or simply don’t like crab, you can fill these with herbed or curried cheese or chicken or tuna salad and make “little” tomato surprises.

Tip: If you happen to have one of those old fashioned grapefruit spoons, it makes this a breeze. If not a sharp pointed paring knife works fine.

12 cocktail tomatoes

Or

18 cherry tomatoes

8 oz. cream cheese

8 oz. crab meat

1 tsp. drained capers

1 small shallot, minced (you can use 3 scallions instead)

Salt and pepper to taste

4 dashes of Tabasco sauce (more if you like it hotter)

HOW TO PREPARE THE RECIPE:

Cut the tomatoes in half and scoop out the insides.

Combine the remaining ingredients. Mix thoroughly.

Using either a star tipped pastry bag or a spoon, fill each tomato half. Chill so the mixture sets and the flavors meld.

Remove from the refrigerator about an hour before serving and stand back. The will disappear so fast you won’t believe your eyes.

Susan Weiner MS RDN CDE CDN and 2015 AADE Diabetes Educator of the Year is an award-winning Registered Dietitian-Nutritionist, Certified Diabetes Educator and published author. Susan offers this advice to all our ‘Divabetics’ who enjoy a buffet: Want to indulge in a few of your favorite hor d’oeuvres? Here’s a great strategy to help you stay within you calorie and carb budget: Select a few hor d’oeuvres and place them on a napkin or small plate. Stand or sit “away” from the bowl or appetizer table. Mindfully savor the flavor of your tasty appetizer while avoiding eating large quantities of these foods. Sit away from the hor d’oeuvres table and  enjoy the celebration with friends and family.

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Stuffed Mushrooms by The Decadent Diabetic 

Net carbohydrates      3. per mushroom cap

This recipe calls for a spinach stuffing. I also use a well seasoned ground turkey (or turkey sausage) stuffing.

12 –mushroom caps (Button is fine but Baby Bella or crimini is better)

1 – pkg. chopped spinach (squeezed dry)

2 TBSP. lemon juice

¼ tsp. dry oregano or basil (or both if you like)

1 – large onion, sliced

2 tbsp. olive oil

¼ cup dried bread crumbs, divided (try panko)

¼ cup parmesan cheese, divided

salt, pepper, garlic powder, parsley to taste ( using 1/2 for the caps, 1/2 for the spinach)

HOW TO PREPARE THE RECIPE:

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Clean the mushroom caps and remove stems. Lightly salt and pepper the inside of the caps.

Sauté the sliced onion in the oil and combine with the squeezed spinach, lemon juice and half of the bread crumbs and half of the parmesan cheese, salt pepper and garlic and divide evenly among the mushroom caps. Top with remaining

bread crumbs and parmesan cheese Bake at 350 for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is lightly browned.

Chocolate Silk Tart by The Decadent Diabetic 

. 8 servings

Net carbohydrates    11g.

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Chef’s note: Guests ALWAYS REMEMBER DESERT. Knock their sox off with this dark chocolate confection.  As a regular desert this recipe serves 8 people with people sized slices. For a party buffet, I suggest slicing it into 12-16 smaller slices.

Crust:

Spray for the pan

(9-10 inch removable bottom fluted tart pan)

2/3. Cup flour

½  cup toasted nuts (either Almonds, Walnuts, or Pecans)

¼ c. GRANULATED SUGAR SUBSTITUTE

1 pinch salt

¼ tsp cinnamon

1/8 Tsp. ground ginger

½ tsp. baking powder

4 tbsp.  butter 1 large egg

FILLING:

1 pkg. cream cheese

2/3 cup GRANULATED SUGAR SUBSTITUTE

3 TBSP. coffee

2 TBP. Sour cream or heavy cream

1 tsp. pure vanilla extract

4 TBSP.  Hershey’s Special Dark Cocoa powder

3 large eggs

HOW I PREPARE THE RECIPE:

In a food processor with a steel blade pulse all of the dry ingredients until very well combined and the nuts disappear into the mixture. Add cold butter and pulse until butter is well distributed in the flour mixture. Add the egg and pulse until mixture forms a ball on the blade. Remove the dough pat into a disc about 5-6’’. Wrap disc in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least ½ hour but overnight will also work.

Roll out the crust on flowered surface to about a 14 in circle. Using your fingers fit  sections of the crust into tart pan. This dough is fragile and will break. Not to worry just piece it together with your fingers. Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes before filling.

Beat cream cheese in the bowl of a food processor or electric mixer until smooth. Add GRANULATED SUGAR SUBSTITUTE and beat until incorporated. Add eggs one at a time beating well after each addition. Add the coffee, vanilla, and Sour cream. Beat until well mixed.  Add the cocoa powder and mix well. Allow to sit for 20 minutes so some of the air from the beating is released (this will help keep the filling from cracking).

Pour into the crust and bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes. Transfer to a rack and cool. Refrigerate for 2-3 hours.

612eRb0efrL._SX359_BO1,204,203,200_Divabetic Tip: Get Organized in 2017! From ideas on how to best store, plan for, and label things, every chapter is a treasure chest to help your blood sugars through lessened stress and better diabetes management get the advice you need in  The Complete Diabetes Organizer: Your Guide to a Less Stressful and More Manageable Diabetes Life  by Susan Weiner MS, RD, CDE, CDN and Leslie Josel. 

Divabetic Image & Style Advisor, Catherine Schuller thinks divas of all types and sizes can steal the spotlight at a New Year’s Day Brunch without breaking the bank  Catherine is one of the plus size industry’s pioneers, Former Ford model, consumer advocate image consultant, author, and the creator of ‘Runway the Real Way’ fashion brunches in New York City.


Catherine’s pick for the perfect blouse for a “Divabetic New Year’s Day Brunch” is a chiffon bow tie blouse. The sheer sleeves are perfect for someone who might feel self-conscious about their upper arms. And the bow tie adds a touch of feminine ‘pizazz’ to daytime dressing. You can pair this blouse under a blazer or cardigan sweater s-l1000with a tailored skirt or trousers and still look like you’re ready to walk the Red Carpet. 

Divabetic Tip:  If your eyes love stilettos but your feet don’t like wearing them then make sure to stash a pair of comfortable flats in your bag before heading out the door.  According to DiabeTV.com wearing high heels can have a great toll on any woman’s feet regardless of if she is a divabetic or not. So the question is… can women with diabetes safely wear high heels? Since foot complications are very common in people with diabetes it is often stated that high heels are not recommended at all; however, there are a few exceptions to this rule. You’ll be surprised at how many stylish choices are available in flats today. After you make your grand entrance in high heels, you can quickly switch into your comfy shoes without missing a beat and stay on track with your diabetes self-care management.

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Since bubbles make a New Year’s Day celebration sparkle we asked Samantha Shanken Baker, who helps presents memorable food and wine events like the Annual Harlem Eat Up!, for her recommendation. Samantha suggests you serve IRON HORSE Russian Cuvée Green Valley of Russian River Valley 2011 (retails for $45). This champagne’s brioche, baked apple and floral raspberry aromas lead to focused, rich flavors that linger with notes of cinnamon, orange zest and mineral.

Divabetic Tip: Aim to stay on top of your blood sugar. Check it more often during the holidays, and if you take medicine, ask your doctor if the amount needs to be adjusted.

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My pick for a soundtrack for a “Divabetic New Year’s Day Brunch” is Maxwell’s fifth studio album, blackSUMMERSnight featuring the song, ‘Lake  By The Ocean.’ Maxwell’s first offering in seven years forms the second installment of a trilogy of albums that are titled identically but for the position of the capital letters. The Grammy-winning soul man is a subeditor’s nightmare, but confusion seems a small price to pay for such a classy comeback collection of anguished R&B.

Pitchfork says, “the cool, shimmering blackSUMMERS’night is probably Maxwell’s most cohesive effort since Embrya.”

Divabetic Tip: Don’t skip meals to save up for a feast. It will be harder to keep your blood sugar in control, and you’ll be really hungry and more likely to overeat.

2 Diet Sodas A Day Could Double Risk of Diabetes

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A Swedish study has found two sodas a day could double the risk of diabetes – even if they are diet versions.

The artificial sweeteners in the diet drinks may stimulate and distort appetite according to the research increasing food intake, and encouraging a sweet tooth. Such sweeteners might also affect microbes in the gut leading to glucose intolerance.

“A most interesting finding was that the higher risk was the same for both sweetened and artificially sweetened beverages, suggesting that greater risk of diabetes was not directly related to higher calorie intake, or adverse metabolic effects of sugar (in the form of sucrose) from the sweetened drinks,” said Professor Christine Williams, Professor of Human Nutrition, University of Reading.

Last year, a study by Harvard University suggested that two cans of fizzy pop could increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

The study found the drinks raised the risk of heart attacks by one third and the risk of strokes by one sixth.

Other studies have linked sugary drinks to a raised risk of prostate cancer.

A 15-year study found those drinking 300ml of fizzy drinks daily had a 40 per cent higher chance of the disease.

Earlier this week, a study found women who regularly consume soft drinks may be reducing their chances of getting pregnant.

The study of 524 patients found a link between artificial sweeteners, such as those used in “diet” sodas, and lower fertility rates, while use of sugar in soft drinks and added to coffee was associated with poorer quality of eggs and embryos.

One of Britain’s leading fertility experts described the findings as “highly significant”, and warned women not to underestimate the effects of food additives on their likelihood of conception.

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LISTEN NOW:  Diabetes Late Nite podcast with music inspiration from Fifth Harmony.  Guests: the Charlie’s Angels of Outreach, Dr. Ivan J. Suñer, Dr. Karin Hehenberger from Lyfebulb, Mama Rose Marie, Poet Lorraine Brooks and real-life diva living with diabetes, Dana.

The Perfect Cookies, Cuticles & Coverage for a Divabetic Christmas Day Celebration

 

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This holiday season Divabetic is championing a ‘sparkle not just survive’ attitude about living with diabetes.

We know for many newly diagnosed people that managing diabetes can feel complicated and overwhelming during the holiday season. The secret is to discover the little changes that make things just work for your diabetes self-care management.

Are you frustrated trying to figure out how not to feel deprived during the holidays?

We assembled an all-star team of beauty/fashion experts, diabetes educators and chefs to help empower you to enjoy a “Divabetic Christmas Day Celebration”  on your terms.

Our chic “Divabetic Christmas Day Celebration” starts with licensed nail technician Jennifer Dye‘s perfect Christmas-themed cuticles. Jennifer says, “your nails are an expression of who you are, so make them count!”She focuses on enhancing your natural nails you minimize your exposure to the abrasive or harsh chemicals necessary in artificial nail treatments.

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Jennifer enjoys showing people how to care for their nails in the best way possible, and emphasizing your own natural nail beauty. She used all Essie Nail Polish shades to create this festive look. Essie is the ultimate color authority offering a line of superior nail polishes. The fashion-forward shades with an exclusive award winning formula are always classic, chic and elegant. Essie polish provides flawless coverage along with outstanding durability, a chip-resistant formula and whimsical names in the most up-to-the-minute colors. All Essie nail polishes are DBP, toluene, and formaldehyde free.

Divabetic Tip: Eat slowly, and really enjoy the foods that you may only have once a year. If the meal will be served near your usual meal time, try to eat the same amount of carbohydrate that you normally would for a meal. If you plan to have a portion of dessert, cut back on another carbohydrate food during the main course. 

Next up, is the perfect cookie for a “Divabetic Christmas Day Celebration”!

Type 2 diabetes doesn’t stop The Diabetic Pastry Chef,  Stacey Harris from celebrating the holidays.  Stacey says, “those of us with special dietary restrictions can still treat ourselves to the bounty of the fall and winter holidays. We just need to be a bit more mindful of our preparation and consumption.”

From her tasty treats to her outlook on life, this pastry chef keeps things as sweet as can be! Her flavor combinations and attention to detail make Stacey’s treats so craveable, while her soft voice and gentle smile make this pastry chef just so lovable reports Diabetic Living magazine.

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Oatmeal Cookies by the Diabetic Pastry Chef Stacey Harris

Ingredients

1 cup raisins

1 tsp pure vanilla extract

3 eggs, well beaten

1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour

2/3 cup white whole wheat flour

1 tsp salt

1 tsp cinnamon

2 tsp baking soda

2 cups oats

¾ cup pecans, chopped

1 cup butter or canola butter

2 cups Whey Low D Granular, sifted

1 tbsp. molasses

Directions:

Combine and let stand the raisins, vanilla and eggs.

In separate bowl, sift together the flours, salt, cinnamon and baking soda.  Add the oats and pecans.

In mixer bowl, cream together the Whey Low, butter and molasses.  Alternately add the egg mixture and the flour mixture to the butter mixture, and beat until incorporated.  Drop by tablespoons onto greased baking sheets and bake in preheated 350 degree oven for approximately 10 to 15 minutes.  Yield:  22 cookies.  Glaze with powdered sugar glaze and pecan halves if desired.

The Diabetic Pastry Chef, Stacey Harris’s recipes are featured in this year’s Diabetes Mystery podcast, “Suspect Boulevard” .

Divabetic Tip: Follow the simple ‘Rule of 15’ to properly treat a low blood sugars.  Eat 15 grams of carbohydrate and wait 15 minutes, repeat if necessary. The following foods will provide about 15 grams of carbohydrate: 3 glucose tablets.

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Divabetic Image & Style advisor, Catherine Schuller’s motto is to “get up, dress up, show up and never give up!” Her “Divabetic Christmas Day Celebration” fashion choice for women concerned about their bare upper arms is Sleevey Wonder’s Bandeau 1/2 Sleeve White Jersey Sleevey Wonders – Plus Size (retail $51). Sleevey Wonders’ reversible slip-on sleeves are made to wear under all your sleeveless strapless tops and dresses, magically transforming your outfits into something new! Sleevey Wonders offers under sleeves in a variety of different styles to pair perfectly with any top or dress. From long sleeved mesh, to 3/4 sleeve jersey, you can find a style to perfectly match your fashionable choices.

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Why not dress up your diabetes self-care? The Clearance Prestige Medical Compact Carrying Case is only $5.00 and makes the perfect Divabetic fashion statement. 6″ x 9″ nylon carrying case is a colorful, inexpensive way to store and safely transport your sphygmomanometer. Features include a hook and loop closure side pocket, nylon carrying strap, water resistant lining. Many colors and prints to choose from with themes including Pink Ribbon, florals, paisleys and Betty Boop.

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My pick for the perfect soundtrack for a “Divabetic Christmas Day Celebration” is Leona Lewis’s “Christmas, with Love” album. I’ve been playing all month long and I can’t get enough! “Christmas, with Love” offers seasonal classics and 3 brand new original holiday songs including ‘One More Sleep’ and ‘Mr. Right’. Packed full of fun and festivity interpreted by the multi-platinum singer and songwriter Leona Lewis. She took the music world by storm with her 2008 debut album Spirit, which featured the best-selling #1 “Bleeding Love” and was nominated for three Grammy Awards. Leona has sold over 20 million albums and singles combined worldwide.

Divabetic Tip: Soluble fiber (the kind found in oatmeal, beans, and apples, among other foods) helps to slow your body’s breakdown of carbohydrates and the absorption of sugar, helping with blood sugar control. Insoluble fiber, found in foods like dark green leafy vegetables, green beans, celery, and carrots, does not dissolve at all and helps add bulk to your stool.

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Finally, what’s Christmas without a fabulous special offer?PEAK 10 SKIN® founder, Connie Elder offers discounts to our Divabetic community  on her skincare line.Simply use coupon code:  friendsandfamily (no spaces, lowercase) at CHECKOUT to receive 30% off.  www.PEAK10SKIN.com

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Connie says, “winter skincare is so important, especially to people with diabetes. Healthy, hydrated skin is stronger skin!  Skin integrity is so important to keep from having open wounds.”

On Christmas Day if you eat more carbs than you planned for, don’t think you have failed. Get back on track with your usual eating habits the next day and include extra exercise and don’t forget to monitor your blood glucose levels.  GLAM MORE, FEAR LESS!