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12/27/201612/27/2016

2 Diet Sodas A Day Could Double Risk of Diabetes

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.

12/26/2016

George Michael Dies at 53

Singer George Michael has died at his home at the age of 53.

The star, who launched his career with Wham! in the 1980s and had huge success as a solo performer, “passed away peacefully” on Christmas Day in Goring, Oxfordshire, his publicist said.

His manager, Michael Lippman, said he had died of heart failure.

George Michael, who was born Georgios Kyriacos Panayiotou in north London, sold more than 100 million albums throughout a career spanning almost four decades.

He first found fame with schoolfriend Andrew Ridgeley in duo Wham! – reaching number one in the UK singles charts on four occasions. One of the band’s most enduring songs “Last Christmas”, is currently number 16 in the UK singles chart.

Solo albums followed, including the multi-million selling “Faith” in 1987. The follow-up “Listen Without Prejudice Vol. 1 outsold Faith in the UK but led to Michael losing a court case with record label Sony over his frustration at how the album has been marketed.

George Michael never shied away from sharing his own personal struggles in his music including a number of references to his sexuality. For example, “I Want Your Sex”, caused some controversy, particularly on US radio stations. Many refused to play it at all while others played a version substituting the word love for sex. In any event the single reached the top three on both sides of the Atlantic.

In November 1994, Michael released the single, “Jesus to a Child”, a tribute to his dead lover, Feleppa. It went straight to No 1 in the UK.

As a solo artist, Michael scored a further seven number one singles in the UK with songs including “Careless Whisper” and “Fastlove”, collaborated with the likes of Aretha Franklin and Elton John, and won three Brit Awards and two Grammys.

Let George Michael’s sudden unexpected death related to heart disease serve as a ‘wake up’ call to inspire you to learn more about your diabetes health.

Women with diabetes are at greater risk of heart disease than are men with diabetes. And did you know that many women may have a heart attack without chest pain? The most common heart attack symptoms in women are neck, jaw, shoulder, upper back or abdominal discomfort. These symptoms can be more subtle than the obvious crushing chest pain often associated with heart attacks. Women may describe chest pain as pressure or a tightness. This may be because women tend to have blockages not only in their main arteries but also in the smaller arteries that supply blood to the heart — a condition called small vessel heart disease or coronary microvascular disease.

Women’s symptoms may occur more often when women are resting, or even when they’re asleep. Mental stress also may trigger heart attack symptoms in women.

Women tend to show up in emergency rooms after heart damage has already occurred because their symptoms are not those usually associated with a heart attack, and because women may downplay their symptoms. If you experience these symptoms or think you’re having a heart attack, call for emergency medical help immediately. Don’t drive yourself to the emergency room unless you have no other options.

Let the music move you to live well with diabetes.

Our free monthly Diabetes Late Nite podcasts feature a mix of expert advice on living well with diabetes, games, prizes and music by today’s hottest stars courtesy of SONY Music.

TUNE IN: January’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast with music by Alicia Keys scheduled for Tuesday, January 10, 6 -7 PM, EST. Alicia Key’s ‘no makeup’ mantra is inspiring us to talk about bare essentials in living well with diabetes including the future of Affordable Health Care Act and food safety issues. Alicia Keys stop wearing makeup as part of a journey towards empowerment for herself. Let us help empower you!

12/25/2016

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!

12/24/2016

Announcing the 2016 ‘Fan Favorite’ Diabetes Late Nite Podcast

From weight loss surgery and diabetes alert dogs tips to shoe and grocery shopping advice, this year’s Diabetes Late Nite podcasts have been packed with expertise advice, fun games and great music.

It’s surprising that our highest rated podcast for 2016 focused on my annual trip to the gynecologist in October to discuss Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)!

I can’t even take credit for tackling this topic, PMDD because it was my featured guest, Dr. Andrea Chisholm MD, OB-GYN’s suggestion!

I quickly learned that PMDD is a severe, sometimes disabling extension of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) that starts about 7 to 10 days before a woman gets her monthly period.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists estimates that at least 85 percent of menstruating women have at least one PMS symptom as part of their monthly cycle. PMS is much more common than PMDD.

Biologic, psychological, environmental, and social factors all seem to play a part in PMDD. It is important to note that PMDD is not the fault of the woman suffering from it or the result of a “weak” or unstable personality. It is also not something that is “all in the woman’s head.”

Rather, PMDD is a medical illness that impacts only 3% to 8% of women. Fortunately, it can be treated by a health care professional with behavioral and pharmaceutical options.

Not only did we cover this topic in depth but two women living with type 1 diabetes shared their experiences of struggling to managing their diabetes because of issues related to their monthly menstrual cycles.

Our good friend, Peak 10 skincare founder, Connie Elder shared some wonderful GLAM MORE, FEAR LESS advice on Summer skincare and offered free product giveaways to two lucky listeners. Plus, we paid tribute to the musical legacy of P.M. Dawn’s frontman Prince Be who died earlier this year of diabetes health-related complications courtesy of SONY Music.

LISTEN NOW: Mr. Divabetic Show podcast on Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

12/23/2016

What Every ‘Divabetic’ Should Know About Menopause

According to a recent article published in the New York Daily News women in perimenopause and menopause don’t realize they have diabetes. The symptoms of diabetes can be confused with symptoms of menopause including frequent urination, night sweats, anxiety, mood swings, foggy thinking, dry itchy skin, and vaginal infections.

In general, women with diabetes lose more years of life than men do. And while the death rate for women with diabetes has risen dramatically since the 1970s, it hasn’t risen for men with the disease. It’s estimated that girls born in the year 2000 have more than a 1 in 3 chance of getting diabetes in their lifetime.

Overweight women at any age with any one of the following risk factors should also be checked for diabetes: inactive, have a first-degree relative with diabetes, have polycystic ovaries, delivered a baby over 9 pounds, have high blood pressure above 140/90 or take blood pressure medication, have low good cholesterol. Be sure to measure your blood sugar regularly.

Divabetic (divabetic.org) is a national diabetes organization dedicated to women.

LISTEN NOW: On the Mr. Divabetic Show: That State Of Women’s Health we’re talking about the state of women’s equality and diabetes and sexual health post-election. While the outcome of the Presidential election means different things to different people, it is no secret that many of the words, values, and behaviors Americans have heard and seen during this election have deeply affected many people, including women.

Did you know that women are more likely than men to suffer from mental illnesses such as anxiety and PTSD? Also, the numbers show us that women have not historically enjoyed the same power and privilege as men. For some women, the result may be a subtle but constant sense of vulnerability and vigilance.

From reproductive rights to Medicare coverage, there could be a lot of policy changes impacting US women over the next four years. Additionally, many women may feel threatened from hearing about a powerful leader’s many sexual assault accusations and the rising incidents of hate crimes post-election.

Guests include: Dr. Andrea Chisholm OBGYN, Peak 10 Skincare founder and Domestic Violence Advocate Connie Elder, Poet Lorraine Brooks, We Are Diabetes organization founder, Asha Brown, Mary Ann Hodorowicz RD, CDE and the President of Women in Government Relations, Kathryn Schubert.

Throughout the podcast we will be featuring music from Leona Lewis’ “Christmas, with Love” album courtesy of SONY Music.

12/22/201612/22/2016

The Perfect Dress, Dishes & Drink for A Divabetic New Year’s Eve Party for 2

Ring in the New Year in a sexy, stylish and healthy way with some help from Divabetic.

We know many people in our Divabetic community don’t like to celebrate the holidays because they feel they may disrupt their diabetes care. But with a little pre-planning and guidance from your healthcare entourage you can still enjoy the festivities without failing your diabetes.

According to Tom Volkar from Core U Coaching, celebration helps us stay in the present where our power is. By celebrating the completion of every small step, we leverage the powerful energies of gratitude and momentum. Thomas Edison taught us that even each mistake along the way is cause for celebration. Life is all about the journey, and that means that every step, as well as reaching our destination, is part of our journey. Celebrating at every juncture is recognition of a life well lived and well worked.

Don’t let diabetes dim your dazzle!

We asked four of our of our favorite experts, Cahterine Schuller AICI, CIP, Cookbook Author, Holly Clegg, Wine & Spirits Expert Samantha Shaken Baker and Susan Weiner MS, RD, CDE, CDN to share advice on how you can celebrate an intimate Divabetic New Year’s Eve for 2 in style without compromising your diabetes health.

Let’s start with what to wear at our fabulous “Divabetic New Year’s Eve for 2”. When it comes to dressing for the occasion there’s no better sytle icon to turn to than our vey own Divabetic Image & Style Advisor, Catherine Schuller. 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 top pick for a dress to wrap up the holiday season is the wrap dress!

This style is flattering on every figure type because it hides a tummy, cinches in a waist, covers a jiggly upper arm, emphasizes decolletage (cleavage). Plus a wrap dress won’t break your bank. It can be worn with different styles of pumps, tights and boots and lots of jewelry in either stones, or silver or gold so you don’t have to spend more money on purchasing new accessories. If your someone special wants to take you out on the town after your “Divabetic New Year’s Eve for 2” dinner, then grab a shoulder duster, a big bangle, and a great clutch and/or fabulous evening bag. “The possibilities are limitless and this is a dress that will serve you well for all those special occasions throughout the year!,” says Catherine.

BLING IN THE NEW YEAR: Why not pamper yourself to a safe manicure before your the big night? Professional pedicures can help your nails look their best, but too often poor sanitation practices, shared tools, and the work of overzealous nail technicians can result in skin injuries or infections. Why not invest in your own nail kit and bring it with you? Though it’s unlikely that you will get an infection from shared nail polish, play it safe and bring your own. Our top nail polish pick for a ‘Divabetic New Year’s Eve for 2’is blue glitter nails with a festive blue (a nod to World Diabetes Day) polish. This nail art is great for short nails that want to sparkle on New Year’s Eve!

DIVABETIC TIP: Make your diabetes health dazzle and match your nails to your blood glucose monitor!

The OneTouch® UltraMini® Blood Glucose Monitoring System is sleek, compact glucose meter easily fits into your purse or pocket for added convenience so it won’t cramp your style! Offers alternate site testing on your finger or forearm with a 1-microliter blood sample and quick results in five seconds on a large, easy-to-read display. Stores 500 blood sugar test results, which can be downloaded to your computer. Available in several fun colors including pink glow, silver moon, limelight and jet black

DIVABETIC TIP: Don’t focus on what you shouldn’t eat but rather on what you can eat!

Next up on our list for celebrating a “Divabetic New Year’s Eve for 2” is ‘the dish.’

With over 1 million cookbooks sold, Holly Clegg has become a culinary expert on easy, healthy and practical recipes through her nationally recognized best-selling trim&TERRIFIC® and her more health focused Eating Well cookbook series, including newly released 15 YEAR ANNIVERSARY edition of Eating Well Through Cancer, (English, Spanish and Chinese editions), Eating Well to Fight Arthritis and Diabetic Cooking with the American Diabetes Association. Clegg who attended the Cordon Bleu Cooking School has appeared on Fox & Friends, NBC Weekend Today, QVC, The 700 Club, USA Today, Cooking Light Magazine, Web MD, and Huff Post. She has consulted for Walmart, Teflon, The Coca-Cola Company, and hospitals throughout the country. Here’s Holly’s suggestion on to make a simple, impressive menu for someone special on New Year’s Eve:

Our dazzling “Divabetic New Year’s Eve for 2” menu starts with Potato Soup
This snazzy soup starts with hash browns, so no time-consuming potato peeling; almost faster than opening a can. I top with cheese and green onions.

Makes 2 (1-cup) servings

2 cups frozen hash brown potatoes, partially thawed
1 (14 1/2-ounce) can fat-free chicken or vegetable broth
1/3 cup finely chopped onion
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1/3 cup skim milk

1. In medium nonstick pot, heat hash browns, broth, and onion to a boil, reduce heat, and cook, covered, about 8-10 minutes.
2. In small bowl, whisk together flour with milk. Add to potato mixture and bring to boil. Reduce heat, and cook, stirring, for 5 minutes or until thickened. For thinner soup, add more milk.

Nutritional information per serving: Calories 215 Calories from fat 0% Fat 1g Saturated Fat 0g Cholesterol 1mg Sodium 390mg Carbohydrate 46g Dietary Fiber 4g Sugars 3g Protein 8g Dietary Exchanges: 3 starch

Next, serve a delicious Kale Salad with Fruity Vinaigrette
You must give kale a try, this intriguing salad with an extraordinary tasty flavor combination. You will love the Fruity Vinaigrette for it’s perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. Did you know that 1 cup of kale provides a whopping 5 grams of fiber, 15% of your daily calcium recommended intake, 180% of vitamin A, and 200% of vitamin C!

Makes 8 servings

8 cups chopped kale, center ribs and stems removed
1 cup shredded red cabbage
1 apple, nectarine or fruit of choice, chopped
1/3 cup chopped pecans, toasted
Fruity Vinaigrette (recipe follows)

1. In large salad, toss together kale, cabbage, fruit and pecans. Toss with Fruity Vinaigrette (see recipe).

Fruity Vinaigrette

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup apricot preserves
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1. In bowl, whisk together all ingredients.

Nutrition information per serving: Calories 145 kcal, Calories from Fat 52%, Fat 9 g, Saturated Fat 1 g, Cholesterol 0 mg, Sodium 44 mg, Carbohydrates 16 g, Dietary Fiber 2 g, Total Sugars 7 g, Protein 3 g, Dietary Exchanges: 1/2 fruit, 2 vegetable, 2 fat

Our entrée for “Divabetic New Year’s Eve for 2” is an Easy Roasted Salmon
Love salmon or never cooked it? You must try this incredible recipe—season salmon, pop in the oven and you have a terrific meal ready in minutes.

Makes 2 servings

1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Salt and pepper to taste
2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets
1 tablespoon light brown sugar
2 teaspoons chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1. Preheat oven 400° F. Line baking sheet with foil.
2. In resalable plastic bag, mix together brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, and season to taste. Add salmon, coating all over and pat in seasoning.
3. Transfer to prepared pan. Bake 12-15 minutes or until fish flakes easily.

Nutritional information per serving: Calories 252 Calories from fat 25% Fat 7g Saturated Fat 1g Cholesterol 97mg Sodium 153mg Carbohydrate 9g Dietary Fiber 1g Protein 37g Dietary Exchanges: 1/2 other carbohydrate, 1/2 lean meat

Serve your entrée with Roasted Garlic Broccoli
By the time the broccoli is done, your dinner will be ready. Roasting broccoli is a simple way to intensify the natural flavor. Sometimes I toss in artichokes or some extra veggies I have hanging around.

Makes 2 servings

4 cups broccoli florets
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 teaspoons minced garlic
Salt and pepper to taste

1. Preheat oven 450°F. Line baking sheet with foil.
2. Toss broccoli with olive oil and garlic on prepared pan. Roast 20 minutes, stirring after 10 minutes. Remove from oven season to taste.

Spicy Advice: Roasting is cooking at a high temperature that browns, caramelizes and crisps.

Nutritional information per serving: Calories 104, Calories from fat 56%, Fat 7 g, Saturated Fat 1 g, Cholesterol 0 mg, Sodium 39 mg, Carbohydrate 8 g, Dietary Fiber 4 g, Sugars 2 g, Protein 4 g
Dietary Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 1 1/2 fat

A finally, indulge in dessert with Holly Clegg’s Berry Parfait (I would cut in fourths so you have extra the next day) and make four)
Light and delightful, strawberries or your favorite berries layered with a luscious cream cheese layer and ladyfingers.

Makes 16 (1/2-cup) servings

2/3 cup seedless sugar-free raspberry preserves
1/4 cup orange juice
6 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (8-ounce) container fat-free whipped topping, thawed, divided
2 (3-ounce) packages ladyfingers, split in half (24)
1 1/2 cups strawberries, stemmed and sliced

1. In small bowl, mix together preserves and orange juice.
2. In mixing bowl, cream together cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until light. Mix in whipped topping reserving, 1/2 cup for topping.
3. Line bottom of an oblong small dish with split ladyfingers. Layer with preserves mixture, cream cheese layer, and top with strawberries. Repeat layers with remaining ladyfingers, preserves and cream cheese layer.
4. Carefully top with thin layer of remaining whipped topping. Top with remaining strawberries. Cover, refrigerate several hours or overnight.

Nutritional information per serving: Calories 128, Calories from fat (%) 24, Fat (g) 3, Saturated Fat (g) 1, Cholesterol (mg) 9, Sodium (mg) 79, Carbohydrate (g) 23, Dietary Fiber (g) 1, Sugars (g) 11, Protein (g) 2, Diabetic Exchanges: 1 1/2 carbohydrate, 1/2 fat

Tip: Use raspberries so you don’t have to even cut the strawberries. This recipe works well in individual servings.

Nutrition Nugget: You will hardly believe this luscious treat is diabetic-friendly so there is always room for dessert!

DIVABETIC TIP: While alcohol can make blood sugar drop too low, certain beverages (such as beer or sugary mixers) can cause a blood sugar spike. What’s more, consuming more than one or two drinks can cloud your thinking and affect other food choices you make that day, which can also affect glucose levels.

Since no “Divabetic New Year’s Eve for 2” celebration is complete without a little bubbly we asked Samantha Shanken Baker, who helps presents memorable food and wine events like the Annual Harlem Eat Up! to suggest a great tasting champagne for under $50. Samantha’s pick is G.H. Mumm Brut Champagne Cordon (retail $45) featuring a delightful notes of flavor—dried apricot, candied orange peel, nut and smoke. This very harmonious dry Champagne is still elegant and light-weight. The rich, toasty note lingers on the vibrant finish. Oh la-la!

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 cocktail: Before New Year’s Eve, take a wine glass out of your cabinet. Take out a liquid measuring cup and pour in 5 ounces of water. Pour the water into the wine glass. That’s a serving of wine! Now you know what a serving of wine looks like and “when to say when” during your holiday gathering.

My pick for the perfect soundtrack to set the mood for a “Divabetic New Year’s Eve for 2” is the Essential Gladys Knight & The Pips album on SONY Music. This album is packed with slow jams ‘You’re Number One (In My Book)’, ‘Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me’ and ‘The Way We Were/Try To Remember’ and uptempo favorites including ‘I’ve Got To Use My Imagination’ and ‘Save The Overtime (For Me)’ along with the classic ‘Midnight Train To Georgia.’

Finally, don’t let diabetes kill romance at “Divabetic New Year’s Eve for 2”. Bring the fireworks into the bedroom with a high-quality lubricant. Lubricants improve sex by making genital tissues moist, which decreases friction and makes intimate contact more pleasurable. If you’re experiencing vaginal dryness, which is common among women living with diabetes, a lubricant can be very helpful. A lubricant is often used with condoms to decrease irritation from latex, but can also be used on its own. Women who often have vaginal yeast infections may wish to avoid glycerin lubes, as the sugar can encourage yeast growth. Wet® Naturals™ Beautifully Bare™ is glycerin-free, paraben-free and enriched for your sensual well-being. This formula is both long lasting and luxurious and designed to enhance a woman’s natural moisture.

Live, love, laugh and learn. If you didn’t feel good about your diabetes management after celebrating your “Divabetic New Year’s Eve for 2” then talk to your doctor about how to do things differently next time. The most important thing is to not let diabetes dim your dazzle!

Happy New Year!

12/20/2016

Special Podcast: Woman’s Health 2017

Mr. Divabetic discusses the state of women’s equality and diabetes and sexual health post-election tonight, Tuesday, December 20, 2016, on a special Diabetes Late Nite podcast at 6 PM, EST.

While the outcome of the Presidential election means different things to different people, it is no secret that many of the words, values, and behaviors Americans have heard and seen during this election have deeply affected many people, including women.

Mr. Divabetic’s guests include: Dr. Andrea Chisholm OBGYN, Peak 10 Skincare founder and Domestic Violence Advocate Connie Elder, Poet Lorraine Brooks, Mary Ann Hodorowicz RD, CDE, Asha Brown, and the President of Women in Government Relations, Kathryn Schubert.

TUNE IN: Special podcast: Woman’s Health 2017

Throughout the podcast we will be featuring music from Leona Lewis’ “Christmas, with Love” album courtesy of SONY Music.

Diabetes Late Nite is a fast-paced, full-filled hour of diabetes education and wellness advice that encourages listeners to “laugh a little, learn a lot.” Enjoy over 100 free podcasts available on demand at i-Tunes, divabetic.org and blog talk radio.

12/14/201612/20/2016

‘There’s A Pill For That’ by Poet Lorraine Brooks

On December’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast we focus on people with diabetes’s interest in ‘getting off their meds’.

Today, a full 61 percent of adults use at least one drug to treat a chronic health problem, a nearly 15 percent rise since 2001. More than 1 in 4 seniors gulp down at least five medications daily as reported by Healthination in US News & Reports. The trend has multiple causes: a spike in diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis related to obesity; revised medical guidelines that treat high blood sugar, hypertension, and high cholesterol sooner; and a multibillion-dollar push by pharmaceutical companies to speak directly to consumers about the payoff in trusting our hearts to Lipitor, say, or taking Boniva to help stop bone loss. But many experts worry that one unintended effect of all the pharmacological success is that many people may be blithely taking drugs they don’t need, potentially setting themselves up for severe consequences.

Poet Lorraine Brooks shares her insight on this topic with her poem, ‘There’s A Pill For That’ on December’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast:

There’s A Pill for That by Lorraine Brooks

We live in a world where appearances rule.

And its what we look like that matters.

People make comments that sometimes are cruel

And can leave our emotions in tatters.

We live in a world where performances reign

And if we are lacking or tired…

Or even if we are in physical pain,

We still want to do whats required.

We’re told there’s a pill for whatever we lack,

From energy, to building breasts.

there’s something that soothes your aching back,

There’s something helps you to rest.

There’s something to aid with your bloating and gas,

There’s pills that will keep you from eating.

There’s medicine that makes erections to last,

And stuff that will aid with excreting.

So off to the pharmacy, scrips to be filled,

And looking for fixes and cures.

Just one more tonic, or two of these pills,

And perfection of health can be yours!

But all of these things, while they may work for some,

They also may lead to frustration.

There’s some things you cant easily overcome

By relying on quick medication.

But also there’s people who may need these aids

For reasons that suit their conditions.

And those are the people we shouldn’t dissuade

From listening to their clinicians.

For me, I am different, as 1 is my “type”

And I get confused and defeated.

because if I listen to all of the hype,

I sometimes feel like I’ve been cheated.

Pills and elixirs, and lifestyle adjusting

Are not part of my repartee.

What I need is the knowledge that people are trusting

That I’m making choices best for ME.

So here’s my 2 cents, and its just my own take.

Everyone’s life is unique.

Do what works for YOU, the decisions you make,

Will put you on your own winning

LISTEN NOW: December’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast with guests include Diabetes Alert Dog expert, Debby Kay CDT, CDTA, PDTI, Megrette Fletcher, MEd, RD, CDE, the Charlie’s Angels of Outreach, Janis Roszler RD, CDE, LDN, Emmy winning Producer, Linda Bracero Morel, Poet Lorraine Brooks and Mama Rose Marie. Plus, we’re giving away 6 months access to mySugr Pro in our INSTANT WINNER challenge. Throughout the podcast we will be featuring music from Leona Lewis’ “Christmas, with Love” album courtesy of SONY Music.

12/10/2016

How To Treat Low Blood Sugars in the Bedroom

An orgasm is a sought-after sexual reward, but for people with diabetes it can feel like a quest for fire and/or unattainable goal. And, yes, we’re talking about women and men here.

Achieving an orgasm might take a lot of work, fantasy, time and patience which could lead to a low blood sugar.

I spoke with Janis Rozsler MS, RD, LD/N, CDE, FAND (2008-2009 Diabetes Educator of the Year (AADE) on our Diabetes Late Nite podcast about how to treat low blood sugars in the bedroom. The question really isn’t about how to treat a low blood sugar, it’s about to treat it without wrecking the mood.

So how do you treat you blood sugars without losing out on the spontaneity.

“Keep things in their nightstands like a snack and check your blood sugars before going into the bedroom,” says Janis. “You can also incorporate food into your sexual play like strawberries and chocolates and whipped cream.You need to test what works for you,” says Janis.

If low blood sugar at night is a common problem for you, talk to your doctor about changing your diabetes treatment plan to better control your nighttime glucose levels.

LISTEN: Don’t Let Diabetes Kill Romance with guest, Janis Rozsler MS, RD, LD/N, CDE, FAND (2008-2009 Diabetes Educator of the Year (AADE).

12/07/2016

Is the IUD The Best Form of Birth Control for Women with Diabetes?

On the upcoming Women’s Health podcast, Mr. Divabetic will discuss birth control options for women with diabetes with his guest, Dr. Andrea Chisholm MD, FACOG OB-GYN.

According to a new study the two most effective hormonal birth control methods for women with diabetes are intrauterine devices (IUDs) and contraceptive implants.

Both forms of birth control are linked with the lowest risk of blood clots in these higher-risk women.

Hormonal contraceptives boost women’s risk for clots, which can lead to heart attack and strokes. That’s a particular problem for women with diabetes, who are at increased risk for blood clots to begin with.

While many contraceptives use a combination of two hormones, estrogen and progestin, the World Health Organization advises that women at increased risk of a blockage caused by a blood clot – known as a thromboembolism – use contraceptives containing only progestin reports FOX News.

Dr. Natalie Whaley, an obstetrician/gynecologist and family planning provider at the University of Rochester Medical Center in New York, said that women with diabetes need to time their pregnancies for a number of reasons, including the fact that having good control of their blood sugar will reduce the risk of miscarriage and fetal anomalies

TUNE IN: Upcoming Special “State of Women’s Health” podcast on Tuesday, December 20, 2016, 6 PM, EST. Guests include Dr. Andrea Chisholm MD, FACOG, OB-GYN, Poet Lorraine Brooks and PEAK 10 Skincare Founder, Connie Elder. Music by Leona Lewis courtesy of SONY Music.