Asha Brown – Page 4

12/04/2017

Our Third Day of Blue Christmas Gift Ideas from Asha Brown

On the third day of Blue Christmas, my true friend Asha Brown sent to me Honey Stinger Glucose Gels to treat a low blood sugar quickly.

“This product is my go-to low blood glucose treatment!,” says Asha Brown, the founder and executive director of the We Are Diabetes (WAD) organization. “It’s the best and tastiest glucose gel I’ve ever tried! They also don’t expire very quickly so you can pack them all over: your car, purse, work desk, etc.”

Honey Stinger Organic Energy Gel products provides great tasting, honey-based energy foods made with natural ingredients. Made with USDA certified organic ingredients, organic tapioca syrup and organic honey. Top athletes as well as many people living with diabetes choose Honey Stinger to deliver concentrated carbohydrates (23 g) during activity. 0 g fat, 0 mg cholesterol. 13 g sugars, 50 mg potassium, 50 mg sodium. Sodium and potassium are vital electrolytes that keep your muscles functioning while minimizing cramping associated with intense exercise. 100 calories per packet.

Honey Stinger Classic Energy Gels are more versatile than other energy gels. Consume it straight from the packet before or during activity or spread it on toast or stir it into tea.

How to Treat a Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)

Treating for hypoglycemia (low blood glucose) is usually recommended when a person’s blood glucose level is 70 mg/dl or less. The “rule of 15” is commonly used as a guideline for treatment: After checking your blood glucose level with your meter and seeing that your level is under 70 mg/dl, consume 15 grams of carbohydrate, wait about 15 minutes, then recheck your blood glucose level. If your blood glucose is still low, consume another 15 grams of carbohydrate and recheck 15 minutes later. Since blood glucose levels may begin to drop again about 40–60 minutes after treatment, it is a good idea to recheck your blood glucose approximately one hour after treating a low.

I think Asha Brown is simply, FABULOUS!!! She’s the Founder and Executive Director of the amazing We Are Diabetes (WAD) organization. WAD is primarily devoted to promoting support, education and awareness for type 1 diabetics who suffer from eating disorders. WAD is dedicated to providing guidance, hope and resources to those who may be struggling, as well as to their families and loved ones.

Asha Brown was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when she was 5 years old. As a dancer, actress and a fitness instructor by the time she was 17, the obsession with maintaining a healthy size and weight while coping with multiple autoimmune disorders (hypothyroidism, polycystic ovary syndrome, as well as type 1 diabetes) became a full-time job. Asha’s experience with symptoms of diabulimia led her to start the We Are Diabetes organization.

Today, Asha works with families, patients, and health professionals across the USA. She uses her personal experiences with ED-DMT1 to offer hope and support to those still struggling. She also establishes relationships with eating disorder facilities and diabetes organizations across the county to help connect people to appropriate care. Asha has presented at NEDA, AADE, and JDRF, among others. She writes for numerous websites including Diabetes Health, Diabetes Daily, and Beyond Type 1. She is a member of Diabetes Advocates and BEDA.

If you or someone you know is a type 1 diabetic who is struggling with an eating disorder and are seeking support, or if you have any other questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to WAD

For the past three years, Asha Brown has made our Diabetes Mystery podcasts truly sparkle! She’s played the organic farmer, ‘Christine’ in ‘Phantom of the Okra’, the uptight, overworked personal assistant, ’Primrose Crump’ in ‘Suspect Boulevard’ and most recently the glitzy burlesque dancer, Coco Mimosa in this year’s Diabetes Mystery: ‘Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’. She truly brings out the best of each performance. I’m so grateful to Asha for sharing her wonderful acting talents with our listeners and helping us raise awareness for diabetes and educate people about diabetes self-care in a fun, new way.

TUNE IN: Don’t miss December’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast featuring music by Elvis Presley on Tuesday, December 12, 2017, 6 PM, EST. We will be discussing ways to not let diabetes make you feel ‘blue’ during the holiday season with our panel of experts. Guests include ‘Walking With Peety’ Author Eric O’Grey, Chilbrook Kennels Breeder Author, Diabetes Alert Dog and Scent Detection Expert, Debby Kay, Poet Lorraine Brooks, Susan Weiner MS, RDN, CDE, CDN, the Charlie’s Angels of Outreach featuring Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE and America’s #1 Energy Conductor, High Voltage. Throughout the podcast we will be featuring songs from the new “Christmas with Elvis and The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra” album courtesy of SONY Music. The album brings together Elvis Presley’s best-loved yuletide performances from “Elvis’ Christmas Album” (1957) and “Elvis Sings the Wonderful World of Christmas” (1971) re-imagined with sublime and exquisite new arrangements performed by The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

NEED MORE INSPIRATION? Our panel of experts, Divabetic community members and past Diabetes Late Nite guests will be sharing more Blue Christmas Gift suggestions on this blog for the next twelve days to help you enjoy the festive spirit of the season without compromising your diabetes health!

Are you feeling ‘blue’ this holiday season?

You’re not alone. Diabetes can cause complications and health problems that may worsen symptoms of depression. Depression can lead to poor lifestyle decisions, such as unhealthy eating, less exercise, smoking and weight gain — all of which are risk factors for diabetes.

The good news is that diabetes and depression can be treated together. And effectively managing one can have a positive effect on the other.

If you think you might be depressed, seek help right away. Your doctor or diabetes educator can refer you to a mental health professional.

https://youtu.be/rqVMfTz_HDU

09/16/201705/21/2020

Sugar-Free Coconut Custard Recipe by The Diabetic Pastry Chef, Stacey Harris

I blame MaryAnn, who whipped up endless coconut cream pies for Gilligan on TV, and the chorus of Rupert Holmes’ hit song, Escape (The Pina Colada song) for why I associate ‘coconuts’ with ‘beaches’. That’s probably why I reached out to my friend and colleague Stacey Harris aka ‘The Diabetic Pastry Chef’ for a dessert recipe featuring coconuts to help celebrate the debut of our 4th Annual Diabetes Mystery podcast, ‘Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’. After all, the setting of this year’s mystery is the Mermaid Parade in Coney Island, NY!!

When Stacey Harris was studying to become a pastry chef, she was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Rather than give up her chosen profession, she began creating more diabetic-friendly desserts. By using blended flours and a combination of sugar and sugar substitutes, reducing milk carbohydrates, and eliminating trans fats, Stacey Harris has transformed more than 200 desserts into diabetic-friendly delights.

Here’s Stacey Harris’ fabulous Coney Island caper inspired recipe for you and your family to enjoy!

Sugar-Free Coconut Custard Recipe by The Diabetic Pastry Chef

Ingredients:

2 c. milk, scalded
2 eggs, slightly beaten
1/2 c. SPLENDA® Naturals
2 tsp. coconut extract
dash nutmeg

Directions:

Preheat oven to 325 degrees.

In large bowl, beat eggs, add SPLENDA® Naturals, coconut extract and nutmeg; blend in hot milk.

Pour into small casserole dish and bake for 1 hour.

Garnish:

Serve with whipped cream sprinkled with a little toasted coconut, a fresh orange slice or garnish of your choice and enjoy!

The Diabetic Pastry Chef’s cookbooks are filled with information on the definition, treatment, and prevention of diabetes and include complete nutritional information (calories, fat, cholesterol, sugars, and protein) for each recipe. She uses Splendar and presents other sugar-free alternatives for pancakes, muffins, cakes, cookies, and pies. Stacey Harris shares the sweet secrets of her simple-to-use formula that will convert most any recipe into a lower-carb alternative without compromising taste or quality. Now ‘divabetics’ can enjoy Chocolate Truffle Cookies, Blueberry Tartlets, Cream Cheese Cupcakes, Coffee Bread Pudding, and hundreds of others. BUY NOW

“In The Diabetic Pastry Chef, Stacey Harris proves you can prepare and eat wonderful food and still stay well within the guidelines of food for a person with diabetes.”—Alan L. Rubin, M.D., author of Diabetes for Dummies and Diabetes Cookbook for Dummies

USA Today Best-Selling Author, Tonya Kappes, We Are Diabetes organization founder, Asha Brown, Divabetic Image & Style Advisor, Catherine Schuller, Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic’, Seveda Williams, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, MaryAnn Horst Nicolay MEd, DTR, Mama Rose Marie and Poet Lorraine Brooks help the fruit suit clad sleuth, Mr. Divabetic in the seaside adventure, ‘Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’.

Diabetes advocate turned reluctant amateur sleuth, Mr. 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 for his former swim coach, Ted Rockow. But this nautical soiree quickly capsizes when the guest of honor is found sleeping with the fishes.

What it an accident or foul play?

Now Mr. Divabetic’s grilling a sequined Real Estate Agent, ex-lifeguard Lothario and a voluptuous Dance Instructor, all intent on keeping their secrets buried deep within the sand. Can Mr. Divabetic prove Coach’s death was a murder, not an accident? Or will he end up floating out to sea?

Will he sink or swim? Tune in to find out if he can solve the murder of his former swim coach with the help of his friends and a kooky crudite-obsessed fortune teller. Along the way to revealing the identity of the murderer he uncovers Summertime diabetes self-care tips.

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

09/05/2017

A Healthy ‘Taco Tuesday’ Recipe from Chef Robert Lewis

Who doesn’t love Taco Tuesdays?

All of sudden the day after Monday, Tuesday, doesn’t seem so bad. I think ‘tacos’ might be to blame for why Tuesdays have become a highpoint in our culinary week. This popular culinary trend, Taco Tuesdays, took off in Southern California and quickly spread to many big cities across the nation.Taco Tuesday is similar to Happy Hour in that restaurants vary in their participation, hours, and specials offered.

Taco Tuesdays can be part of a healthy diet plan, if done right.

I asked my friend, Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic’ to share a few of his favorite healthy fish taco recipes on this blog. It’s all part of the preparations for our biggest podcast event of the year, Mister Divabetic Mystery podcast: ‘Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’ on Tuesday, September 12, 2017, 6 PM, EST.

The wonderful Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic’ plays the character on ‘Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’.

Since this year’s zany adventure takes place in New York City’s historic seashore, Coney Island we’re spotlighting seafood dishes.

Don’t let diabetes dim your DAZZLE! Get in the spirt and enjoy the first of several fish taco recipes,Garlic Rubbed Salmon Tacos, from The Happy Diabetic. It’s sure to win over your family and friends at your next party!

Garlic Rubbed Salmon Tacos by The Happy Diabetic

What’s in it?

1 tsp. fresh lime juice

2 tsp. chopped garlic

Fresh Cracked pepper

1 Tsp Splenda

1 lb. skinless salmon fillet

1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

8 corn tortillas

1 very ripe avocado

Let’s put it together!

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Mix the garlic, Splenda and olive oil. Rub the salmon and let stand for 5 minutes.

Wrap the tortillas in foil and bake for about 8 minutes, until they are softened and heated through.

Heat a large pan with oil or cook on the grill. Cook the salmon over medium heat until nicely browned and just cooked through, about 3 -5 minutes per side.

Gently break each piece of salmon in half. Spread the mashed avocado on the warm tortillas and top with the salmon, cabbage, and Drizzle each taco with fresh lime serve.

Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic’ has made it his mission to not only to be an ambassador of positivity for himself and his family (which includes 3 children and 6 grandchildren) but to also create amazing things in the kitchen for people of all walks of life to enjoy.

In a recent profile on the Everyday Diabetes website, Chef Robert Lewis admitted that he wasn’t going to let his diagnosis with Type 2 Diabetes get him down.

“When I started this personal journey as a type 2 in 1998, I determined right then and there that diabetes was not going to change my positive outlook on life! I have always looked for ways to bring joy to others,” says Chef Robert Lewis. “ As The Happy Diabetic, I work to bring hope as well as happy, healthy lifestyle strategies to people living with diabetes! Putting a positive spin on things will always help us get through the tough times together!”

Now The Happy Diabetic’s a man on a mission! When he’s not working as a director of training for 60 restaurants in the Midwest, he’s traveling around the country as a keynote speaker for Taking Control of Your Diabetes and/or hosting his own podcast, ‘The Happy Diabetic Kitchen Podcast’! Read more about Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic’ in Diabetes Health Monitor magazine.

What’s Trending: Thousands of Farmed Salmon Accidentally Released into Seas

Thousands of farmed Atlantic salmon were accidentally released into the waters between Anacortes and the San Juan Islands, and officials are asking people to catch as many as possible. Tribal fishers, concerned about native salmon populations, call the accident “a devastation.” READ MORE

Don’t Miss The Newest Mister Divabetic Mystery podcast entitled ‘Gypsies, Tramps and Peas’ on Tuesday, September 12, 2017, 6 PM, EST.

Diabetes advocate turned reluctant amateur sleuth, Mr. Divabetic finally takes the plunge and ventures into a new career as a healthy caterer. With the help of his co-workers and nosy Italian mother, he heads for Coney Island to cater his first party aboard a yacht for his former swim coach, Ted Rockow. But his nautical soiree quickly capsizes when the guest of honor is found swimming with the fishes. What it an accident or foul play? Now Mr. Divabetic’s grilling Burlesque dancers, a lifeguard lothario and some sequined mermaids, all intent on keeping their secrets buried deep within the sand. Can Mr. Divabetic prove Coach’s death was a murder, not an accident? Or will he end up floating out to sea?

Will he sink or swim? Tune in to find out if he can solve the murder of his former swim coach with the help of his friends, some sassy mermaids and a cooky fortune teller. Along the way to revealing the identity of the murderer he uncovers expert tips for diabetes self-care during the Summer months.

USA Today Best-Selling Author, Tonya Kappes, Asha Brown, Catherine Schuller, Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic’, Seveda Williams, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, MaryAnn Horst Nicolay, Mama Rose Marie and Poet Lorraine Brooks help the fruit suit clad sleuth in this seaside adventure. Healthy delicious recipes provided by Chef Robert Lewis and Stacey Harris aka ‘The Diabetic Pastry Chef’.

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

Join the show! Get the full script for ‘Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’ and read along as our cast performs. Please e-mail: mrdvabetic@gmail.com

08/09/201708/09/2017

Do You Have A Pet Name for Your Diabetes or Insulin Pump?

Broadway Diva, singer, actress, Soara-Joye Ross, who is living with type 1 diabetes admits that she named her diabetes ‘Sasha’ and her new insulin pump ‘Black Panther’ … how about you?

Do you think giving a pet name to your diabetes and/or your device(s) could help you manage your diabetes?

Personally, I think giving your diabetes, your pump and/or your continuous glucose monitor a pet name is a great idea for helping you to cope with diabetes. A healthy sense of humor could certainly come in handy when you consider that the emotional dimensions of diabetes are often overlooked by healthcare professionals as well as patients.

“Laughter is the best medicine . . . unless you have type 1 diabetes, then insulin is probably better,” writes Dr. Beverly S. Adler, aka “Dr. Bev,”, who is a clinical psychologist and Certified Diabetes Educator in an article for Diabetes Connect.

“I named my diabetes “Sasha” because she’s like a person to me. She was like a two-year-old for the first several years. Now she acts like a teenager by always wanting to do her own thing and not what I always want her to do!,” says Soara-Joye on August’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast.

Soara-Joye has performed abroad and all over the country. Named, “A True Musical Theatre Diva!” by BroadwayBox.com, this native New Yorker has performed in NY from Broadway (Les Misérables & The Dance of the Vampires) & Carnegie Hall (Jerry Springer the Opera) to the Winspear Opera House in Dallas (The Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess) all the way to the Alter Oper in Frankfurt, Germany (Smokey Joe’s Cafe)! She has performed at highly acclaimed regional theaters, Off-Broadway, in Film, (Garden State)and just guest starred on HBO’s new comedy, Crashing, directed by Judd Apatow.

Our favorite Broadway DIVAbetic’s 10 year diaversary approaches in September and she recently started wearing an insulin pump that she named “Black Panther”. Soara-Joye says her insulin delivery device aka ‘the pump’ has been a godsend for her managing her ‘Sasha’ especially with such a rigorous performance schedule.

“With the insulin pump I can suspend my insulin delivery which is extremely helpful if I’m constantly on stage like I was when I was performing as Deloris Van Cartier ( in the musical, ‘Sister Act’),” she adds.

This Broadway DIVAbetic Has An Entourage Supporting Her with Her Diabetes Self-Care

Soara-Joye admits that on ‘day one’ of rehearsals for a show, she tells her stage manager and all involved on the creative team that she has type 1 diabetes. She also shares that her diabetes has a name: “Sasha” and that she’s pretty much another character in the show, that they need to know about.

One of her six dressers on ‘Sister Act’ was standing by in the wings with glucose tablets, insulin and juice boxes just in case Soara-Joye needed any of them. She also helped monitored Soara-Joye’s numbers on her continuous glucose monitor to watch out for trends in her blood sugar during the show. “My main dresser, Alison Clifton and the rest of my fabulous team of dressers were a godsend!,” says Soara-Joye.

Let Soara-Joye Ross Inspire You to Manage Your Diabetes like a Diva!

When you stop to consider that many people with chronic conditions such as diabetes often have to adjust their aspirations, lifestyle, and employment I feel Soara-Joye is truly a diva inspiration. Let Soara-Joye’s openness and creative coping skills as well as her ability to empower her co-workers to be part of her health entourage motivate you to not let diabetes dim your dazzle!

Soara-Joye appears in Judd Apatow’s HBO series ‘Crashing’ and will soon be starring as (Delores) LaVern Baker, the popular American Rhythm & Blues Singer from 50’s and 60’s, in the musical, ‘Rock and Roll Man’.

“Managing diabetes is a full time job, but with a little bit of humor we can take it all in stride,” writes Dr. Bev for Diabetic Connect. “Look for humor in a bad situation, and uncover the irony and absurdity of life. This will help improve your mood and the mood of those around you. Best of all, this priceless medicine is fun, free, and easy to use.”

Everything’s Coming Up Roses! We’re going behind the scenes on our upcoming Mr. Diabetic Mystery podcast. ‘Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’ (scheduled for September 12, 2017) with music from the Original Broadway cast of ‘Gypsy’ courtesy of SONY Music.

Our annual diabetes mystery podcast hopes to encourage you to become a Diabetes Detective. Look for clues, search for patterns, investigate the reasons behind your blood sugar high’s and low’s and report to the authorities (your healthcare team) about medical information found on the internet.

On August’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast we’re discussing tips for Summertime Diabetes Management, the Best in Swimsuit Coverups, Body Image Issues, Health Hazards of Professional Eating Contests, Safe Pedicures and Broadway’s Biggest Divas.

LISTEN: August’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast with music from the musical, ‘Gypsy’ features guests Actress, Singer Soara-Joye Ross, Poet Lorraine Brooks, Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic’, Maryann Nicolay BA, DTR, Catherine Schuller AICI, CIP, Founder & Executive Director of the We Are Diabetes organization Asha Brown, Best-Selling Author Tonya Kappes and Mama Rose Marie.

06/06/201706/06/2017

Chocolate Zucchini Cupcakes Recipe from ‘Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’

Our annual Mister Divabetic Mystery Podcast presented in September is a fun way to learn about diabetes for mystery lovers.

This year’s Mister Divabetic Mystery Podcast: ‘Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’ takes place at the Mermaid Parade in Coney Island, NY and features summer time diabetes education tips and healthy recipes from our favorite chefs including Chef Robert ‘The Happy Diabetic’ Lewis and Stacey ‘The Diabetic Pastry Chef’ Harris.

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, Mama Rose Marie, he heads for Coney Island, NY for the 35th Annual Mermaid Parade to cater his first party aboard a yacht for his former swim coach, Ted Rockow. But his nautical soiree quickly capsizes when the guest of honor is found swimming with the fishes. What it an accident or foul play? Now Mr. Divabetic’s grilling Burlesque dancers, a lifeguard lothario and some sequined mermaids, all intent on keeping their secrets buried deep within the sand. Can Mr. Divabetic prove Coach’s death was a murder, not an accident? Or will he end up floating out to sea?

One of the dilemmas our team faces in Coney Island is what to do with all the unused vegetables from the party, especially the zucchini!

Thankfully Chef Robert Lewis aka ‘The Happy Diabetic‘ has come to our rescue with this delicious recipe for Chocolate Zucchini Cupcakes for you to enjoy!

Chocolate Zucchini Cupcakes Recipe by ‘The Happy Diabetic’

What’s in it!

1-1/4 cups butter, softened
1-1/2 cups sugar
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup baking cocoa
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup plain yogurt
1 cup grated zucchini
1 cup grated carrots

Let’s Put It Together

1. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla. Combine the flour, baking cocoa, baking powder, baking soda and salt; add to the creamed mixture alternately with yogurt, beating well after each addition. Fold in zucchini and carrots.

2. Fill paper-lined muffin cups two-thirds full. Bake at 350° for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely. Frost cupcakes with a chocolate frosting

Yield: 21 cupcakes.

Nutritional Facts

1 each: 326 calories, 17g fat (9g saturated fat), 50mg cholesterol, 288mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (25g sugars, 1g fiber), 3g protein.

Chef Robert ‘The Happy Diabetic’ Lewis:

Growing up in Los Angeles offered Chef Robert a culinary experience he will always cherish. Family cooks and guests in my home were experts in preparing Jewish, Mexican, Middle and Far Eastern, and traditional dishes, which gave him a love for food and the creative outlet it provided.

After graduating from the Prestigios Culinary Institute of America in 1976. In 1998 he was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Thus began his motivation to create great tasting dishes that are easy to prepare.

In 1998 I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Much of what I heard in those early day was about the foods that were prohibited. I suspected that my days of good eating were over, yet as I worked through my ups and downs, I came to realize that the selection of foods I could and should eat was vast and included many of my favorites. This motivated me to attempt to create delicious, diabetic-friendly dishes that were also easy to prepare.

Chef Robert is a nationally recognized author, public speaker and spokesperson for all people affected with diabetes. He travels the country speaking on the benefits of healthy eating not only for people affected with diabetes, but also for anyone who would like to eat and live a healthy lifestyle.

Enjoy our third annual Mister Divabetic Mystery Podcast: ‘Suspect Boulevard’ revolves around dogs, dementia, diamonds and diabetes. This special mystery theater production is loosely based on Billy Wilder’s film, Sunset Boulevard. Our cast includes Poet Lorraine Brooks, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, ‘We Are Diabetes’ organization founder, Asha Brown, Catherine Schuller AICI, CIP, Susan Weiner MS, RD, CDE, CDN, Chef Robert Lewis, USA Today Best-Selling Author Tonya Kappes and Mama Rose Marie.

TUNE IN: Diabetes Late Nite inspired by Maxwell. We’re talking about diabetic macular edema with musical inspiration from Maxwell on Tuesday, June 13, 2017, 6 PM, EST. Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) is an accumulation of fluid in the macula-part of the retina that controls our most detailed vision abilities-due to leaking blood vessels. In order to develop DME, you must first have diabetic retinopathy.

Diabetic retinopathy is caused by damage to the blood vessels in the tissue at the back of the eye (retina). Poorly controlled blood sugar is a risk factor. Early symptoms include floaters, blurriness, dark areas of vision, and difficulty perceiving colors. Blindness can occur.

Guests include singer Alfa Anderson, Diabetic Macular Edema patient Maryanne Kass, Artist Bryce Chisholm, the Charlie’s Angels of Outreach, Poet Lorraine Brooks and Mama Rose Marie. Throughout the podcast we will be featuring selected songs from several of several of Maxwell’s albums courtesy of SONY Music.

05/13/201705/13/2017

Carbohydrates Are ‘Luxury’ Brands in Chloe Wise’s Eyes

We all know high carbohydrate foods can raise blood sugars but did you know that they’re also raising eyebrows in the art world?

Chloe Wise’s viral “Bread Bag” series, in which she affixed luxury logos to carbohydrates and gave them names like Pancakes No. 5 and her videos, in which she and her friends recite things she’s overheard such as: “ I realized I eat quinoa all the time, and I don’t know what it is,” have caught the attention of the art world.

She spends about eight to 12 hours a day in her Brooklyn studio working on food projects depicting the sensual promises of chain restaurants including ‘Olive Garden of Eden’.

What’s the idea behind her carb heavy and highly caloric work?

“Part of it is how women are addressed in the media, like ‘You want to lose weight, you want to be healthy, you want to be the best you.’ For men, it’s like ‘Enjoy yourself’. For women, it’s like, ‘Cut Back’. And it truly affects us,” said Wise in New York magazine.

I think her approach to capturing the millions of contradictory messages being shot at us daily is necessary and so needed especially in the wake of Mick Mulvaney, President Trump’s budget chief’s recent comments.

In response to Senator Bill Cassidy’s position that any health insurance should pass the “Jimmy Kimmel test” (providing coverage for conditions like the heart issues suffered by TV comedian Jimmy Kimmel’s infant son that Kimmel described on his late night show), Mulvaney said that, while there should be coverage for diseases like cancer, coverage does not need to include “ordinary health care.” According to the Washington Examiner, Mick Mulvaney, President Trump’s budget chief, , diabetics have only themselves to blame for their illness:

“That doesn’t mean we should take care of the person who sits at home, eats poorly and gets diabetes.” said Mulvaney. “Is that the same thing as Jimmy Kimmel’s kid? I don’t think that it is.”

It’s shocking to me that anyone, let alone, a government official would make such an absurd and offensive comment. I’m not living under a rock. I know many people still blame people with diabetes for their health but I just didn’t expect to hear in this forum.

For the past 12 years, I’ve been fighting the shame and blame associated with a diabetes diagnosis the best way I know how; with a feather boa!

My diabetes nonprofit organization, Divabetic promotes a glamorous approach to managing diabetes to encourage someone at risk, affected by and living with diabetes ‘to keep their house’ a home and prevent a diabetes health-related complication from occurring. I saw how destructive mismanaged diabetes can be when I found my former boss, Luther Vandross on the floor of his 5th Avenue apartment after suffering a stroke related to type 2 diabetes. These memories still haunt me to this day and motivate me to keep fighting!

I really like artist Chloe Wise and her ‘Bread Bags’ artwork. I thinks she’s helping us change conversations around food, food consumption and the shame and blame associated with it. She’s pointing out the subversive ways the food industry operates and how they like to play with our minds to get us to consume more and more food. Several of her works focus on the subliminal sexual connotations of phrases like “luscious cream sauce” and dripping, oozing and naughty images used in chain restaurant advertisements. When you really stop and think about it, it’s pretty gross.

Unfortunately, a lot of people with diabetes don’t get the opportunity to think about these types of things because they’re too busy beating themselves up about their food choices and/or lack of ‘willpower.’

I say, ‘Don’t get down, get DIVA’. The best way to fight back is to embrace yourself, and your diabetes health. Once you truly accept your diagnosis you can strive to learn more, do more and live more!

Divabetic’s Diabetes Plate Poetry “What’ s on Your Plate?” video describes the emotional experience of living with diabetes. An important component of diabetes self-management, but often unaddressed, is the topic of emotional well being.

Are you afraid of eating Carbohydrates?

“Every day, people with diabetes are bombarded with messages to limit, restrict, avoid, and feel guilty for eating carbohydrates. Not surprisingly, my clients with diabetes often tell me they are afraid of eating carbs.” says Megrette Fletcher, M. Ed, RD, CDE.

So how does someone with diabetes stop being afraid of eating carbohydrates?

Restriction breeds fear and fear breeds restriction

If you are trying to be “good,” it’s a red flag that you may be stuck in a restrictive mindset. The idea of being “good” often start as an intention to make more informed choices, but when the reason you’re trying to “be good” is out of fear, something shifts. Fear can make any choice not good enough because fear moves the goal of eating a balanced meal to a meal that is better. “Better” of course means eating fewer and fewer carbohydrates until you have nearly eliminated carbohydrates from your diet, hoping that the fear of eating would end. But it doesn’t, does it?

Pause and ask yourself, “Do I think all foods can fit in your diet when you have diabetes?” Fear and being afraid, makes it hard to think, read a label, consider your options, or make a decision. In Megrette’s book Eat What You Love, Love What You Eat with Diabetes, she tackle how to resolve some of these difficult thoughts about food and eating. READ MORE

CLICK to LISTEN NOW: The State of Women’s Health on the Diabetes Late Nite. We’re talking about the state of women’s equality and diabetes and sexual health post-election. 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.

03/30/2017

Diabetes Mystery Update on: Gypsies, Tramps & Peas

After a shaking first rehearsal and numerous rewrites we’re gearing up for the second rehearsal of September’s Diabetes Mystery podcast entitled “Gypsies, Tramps and Peas”.

What I learned from the first rehearsal was that the dialogue needs to be punched up, scenes need to be edited, and several Coney Island character need to be developed. But, all in all, I was happy with the diabetes education tips and the mystery’s storyline.

Once again the happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic (that’s me) finds himself mixed up in a murder mystery investigation when he arrives in Coney Island to attend the 35th Annual Mermaid Parade.

My character experiences a change of heart in the ‘Gypsies, Tramps & Peas’ storyline from past episodes. Believe it or not, Mr. Divabetic willfully decides to get involved in a murder investigation because it involved my high school swim coach, Ted Rockow.

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.

Don’t miss Diabetes Late Nite inspired by Lang Lang on Tuesday, April 11, 2017, 6- 7:30 PM. Guests include Grammy Award winning singer, Lisa Fischer, podiatrist Dr. Michele Summers Colon DPM, diabetes advocate Eugenia, Poet Lorraine Brooks, the Charlie’s Angels of Outreach and Mama Rose Marie. TUNE IN

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.

12/20/2016

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.