Diabetes & The Nightshift: Confessions of A Security Guard Living With Type 2 Diabetes

Keith was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes back in 2006. However, he doesn’t feel his family history of diabetes (a few extended members with diabetes) is responsible for his diagnosis. Instead, he blames his eating habits.

“I didn’t take my diabetes seriously for the first ten years of my diagnosis,” Keith admits. “I never checked my blood sugars. I wasn’t exercising or watching what I ate. My doctors told me I had diabetes, and I didn’t do anything about it. I had all the information at my disposal. But I wasn’t applying it. I’d lie about checking my blood sugars with my doctor. My doctor would look at my blood work and challenge me. My grandmother had this saying, “someone will never do what they need to do until they’re ready to do it” — which pretty much sums up my mindset back then.“

Looking back, Keith feels his careless attitude could result from no one around him growing up taking their diabetes seriously either.

“As a kid, we referred to diabetes as ‘sugar.’ I knew I had diabetes, but it was just a word; I didn’t think of it as a disease. I never thought it was something fatal. Or as something that could take your limbs, sight, or life. I didn’t put any of that into perspective for the first ten years.”

“My close friend’s unexpected passing from diabetes was a wake-up call. That’s when I started to manage my diabetes. ”

Keith continued with regular doctor visits but started to adhere to a medication routine, exercising at home (watching exercise DVDs), and eating healthy.

Eventually, he had to have part of a toe removed.

“My foot issue happened about five years ago after I got serious with my diabetes.”

Keith’s foot issues sparked his desire to have weight loss surgery.

“Four years ago, I had gastric sleeve surgery. Several friends and family underwent the same surgery, so I knew about it. I talked to my doctor about it after I found out it would help with my diabetes.”

“I was pretty successful at managing my weight until I got the Security job in December of 2020. The stomach is a muscle and can be stretched back to its original shape if you’re not exercising and eating right. Both of which have happened since taking this job. I’ve been doing ok since being off for the summer, but at 56 years old, it’s hard to get that momentum back and in high gear to where I was before getting my job.”

Managing diabetes at work can be challenging, especially if you cannot get up and move around freely. I spoke to Keith about his new security job on the NBC TV show, The Blacklist, what a typical day is like, and how his work environment has been affecting his diabetes wellness.

Q: What is your typical schedule for the day and week when you work security?

A: On the Security job, I work 16-18 hours or more a day. I don’t get any breaks; the only break is when you go to the bathroom. Lunch is brought to you from craft services. So basically, you on your post from the time you arrive at 4:30 am until you leave, which can be anytime in the evening/night.

Q: How does your work schedule affect your health?

A: My health has been up & down gained weight since starting this job on 12/2020.

Q: Has your sleep schedule changed?
A: I don’t get much sleep. I get up at 2:15 am and work till at least 7 or 8 pm.

Q: Has your diet changed since starting your job? Gained or lost weight since working this job?
A; I have gained ten pounds. I’ve gone from 176 lbs to 186 lbs (I was weighed at the doctor today).

Q: Has your fitness level changed?
A: With these job hours, I haven’t worked out since starting the job.

Q: Have you been to the doctor since starting this job? If so, have there been any changes? What are they? In meds? A1C? etc.

A: I still make all my doctor appointments, my weight has gone up my A1C fluctuates from good to not so good. I blame it on me being a foodie and craft services and having no self-control.

Photo by Flex Point Security on Unsplash

Q: How much physical activity do you get at work? If you don’t get physical activity, then describe what you do – are you sitting all day, in one place, moving around from area to area, etc.
A: I get absolutely NO physical activity on this job. I sit, stand, walk, but it’s not enough to break any kind of sweat or get the body in a serious routine. I have to control my eating, and that’s it with this job.

Q: What do you typically eat when you’re at work?
A: I eat pretty healthy. I eat many fruits, vegetables, some fish & chicken, water, tea, nuts, etc.

Q: Do you bring your own food, or is it provided?
A: We have Craft Service, which has EVERYTHING you can imagine, from shrimp calamari ribs soups, fish wraps, vegan dishes, cakes, pies, cookies, etc. So I eat pretty healthy fruits, vegetables, fish and chicken nuts, water tea sometimes snacks like cookies, chips, gummies, but not much.

Q: Describe some of the challenges you face managing type 2 diabetes at your job?

A: As I mentioned before, I’m a foodie, and there isn’t a lot to do. You’re bored lots of the time, so I eat it’s all me. So I’ve gotta have better self-control.

Q: What would make it easier for you to manage your diabetes at work?
A: Honestly, not going back. The job is also located on the water, so it’s extremely cold even when the weather is nice outside. The studios are located right alongside enclosed parking lots. There are always continuous drafts. No matter how layered up you are being in one place for hours, the cold still creeps in on the body.

Q: Any additional thoughts on the ‘the struggle is real’ scenario?
A: As I mentioned earlier, I’m a ‘foodie.’ I’ve got to have self-control over myself; I can’t give in to boredom. I must develop a backbone.

Since many of us are facing similar issues that Keith mentioned, I reached out to Divabetic friend and colleague, Jill Weisenberger MS, RDN, CDCES, CHWC, FAND to get her advice on the issues that Keith is facing in his current work environment.

Jill has authored four books. Diabetes Weight Loss Week by Week is a bestseller and can help you manage your weight and blood sugar at the same time. The Overworked Person’s Guide to Better Nutrition offers solutions to your everyday food and nutrition problems – no matter how busy you are. 21 Things You Need to Know About Diabetes and Your Heart gives you specific actions to take to improve your health right away. And Jill’s newest book Prediabetes: A Complete Guide leads you through dozens of concrete steps to lower your risk of developing type 2 diabetes and other chronic health problems. 

Q: What advice can you share for someone who tends to overeat out of boredom?

Jill Weisenberger (JW): I like making rules with exceptions. For example, “I do not eat unless it’s a meal or a planned snack. Period. Except when … ” So, for me, it’s except when I’m offered something I will have no opportunity to try another time (gelato in Italy, Sacher torte at the Sacher Hotel, etc.)

I have more info here: https://jillweisenberger.com/how-do-you-handle-the-office-junk-food/

Q: What strategies can you share for someone who is surrounded by too much food at work that’s trying to maintain a healthy weight?  

JW: Same as above. Additionally, I think it’s important to build in treats. Once I worked at a job that always had lots of junk food. So I planned that every Wednesday afternoon, I’d pick one thing. I did that for 8 years.

Q: What advice can you give someone who admits to having ‘no self-control’? (I know you have written about this topic. Can you also share the link to one of your blog posts on it?) 

JW: Most importantly, address your environment. You have more control over your environment than you do over your willpower. 

https://jillweisenberger.com/how-to-build-willpower-enemies-of-willpower/

https://jillweisenberger.com/negative-thoughts-ruin-diet/

Also, he can get a free download here that addresses how to boost success: https://app.monstercampaigns.com/c/vkzefvb1bdbtk8wffiic/

 

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

Join the happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic for this free, fun Virtual Salad Making Party with our special guest, Nationally recognized Registered Dietitian, Certified Diabetes Educator Jill Weisenberger MS, RDN, CDCES, CHWWC, FAND on Wednesday, August 18, 2021, 7 – 8 PM, EST on Zoom.

Eating a salad sounds healthy, doesn’t it? But a leafy green salad can go bad when you pile on the high calorie and high carb toppings, dressings, and other deep-fried offerings. 

How do you make a great-tasting salad without sacrificing your diabetes wellness?

Special Guest, Jill Weisenberger shares 2-3 of her favorite nutrient-dense salad and tasty dressing recipes that you can make at home and answers your nutrition questions.

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Quick Tips for The Picnic on Divabetic’s Zoom Program

Join us tonight, Tuesday, June 29, 2021 for Divabetic on Zoom at 7 PM, EST. Our free one-hour virtual program features ‘What To Wear When Nothing Fits for Summer’ presented by Divabetic Image & Style Advisor, Catherine Schuller and ‘How To Master The Menu at The Cookout’ presented by MaryAnn Nicolay MEd, NDTR.

Photo by Kate Hliznitsova on Unsplash

MaryAnn Nicolay MEd, NDTR’s quick tips for enjoying outdoor picnics without compromising your health include:

  • 3-4 servings of carb foods will be around 45-60 grams of carbohydrate. (This falls within the American Diabetes Association carb recommendations per meal.)
  • Use your carb servings on foods that you don’t get to eat as often.
  • Treat desserts like a snack by eating it 2-3 hours after the main meal.
  • Think about the face of a clock when eating pie or a round cake.  Instead of having a “15-minute” piece, have a “5-7 minute” piece.  This will give you the treat you desire while keeping you closer to your carb goals of less than 30 grams of carb for a snack
  • Get up and move, don’t just sit and eat.  Go for a walk, play games, have fun!

Tune in to the latest edition of Divabetic’s popular Diabetes Late Nite podcast for a unique mix of music with diabetes information.

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

Join the happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic for this free, virtual diabetes support program with style.

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Cellulitis & Diabetes: What To Know

We’re blogging about cellulitis and diabetes after one of our good friends and Luther fans sent us photos from a clinic being treated for cellulitis with a back drain. Their healthcare provider mentioned that high blood sugars were feeding their infection.

What is Cellulitis?

Cellulitis is a common, potentially serious bacterial skin infection. It occurs when bacteria enter through a crack or break in your skin. The affected skin appears swollen and red and is typically painful and warm to the touch.

It may contain blisters exuding clear or yellow fluid or pus. Cellulitis can occur on any part of the body but is most common on the lower legs or feet.

Cellulitis & Diabetes: What’s the Connection?

Research shows that diabetes predisposes a person to common infections, such as cellulitis and pneumonia. Poor glycemic management was linked to the development of cellulitis.

Elevated blood sugars can increase the risk of skin infection and that the infection could also raise blood sugars. Additionally, the reduced blood flow from vascular problems could increase the risk of infection. This is why people with diabetes and those with poor circulation need to take extra precautions to prevent skin injury.

Foot and skincare are extremely important when you have diabetes especially when blood sugars are out of control. Visit your physician and podiatrist on a regular basis and request a full foot and leg exam.

Cellulitis can be prevented with diligent attention and care. Know what to look for and take active steps to make sure you do not end up with this unnecessary and possibly disastrous problem!

 

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

Join the happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic for this free, virtual diabetes support event with style. Divabetic’s dynamic diabetes program features ‘What To Wear When Nothing Fits for Summer’ presented by Divabetic Image & Style Advisor, Catherine Schuller and ‘How To Master The Menu at The Cookout’ presented by MaryAnn Nicolay MEd, NDTR on Tuesday, June 29, 2021, 7-8 PM, EST

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Dining Out Advice At Your Favorite Mexican Restaurant

At Divabetic’s recent free Zoom outreach program, we dined out virtually at a Mexican Restaurant with MaryAnn Horst Nicolay, MEd, NDTR. MaryAnn shared what terms to look for and which terms to avoid when making our menu selections. Most of us can’t change the menu, but we can change what we eat and how much we eat.

 

Join us for Divabetic’s Zoom Program: ‘No Judgements’ on Tuesday, June 29, 2021, 7-8 PM. Mr. Divabetic hosts this free, virtual diabetes support program featuring ‘What To Wear When Nothing Fits for Summer’ presented by Divabetic Image & Style Advisor, Catherine Schuller and ‘How To Master The Menu at The Cookout’ presented by MaryAnn Horst Nicolay MEd, NDTR.

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Divabetic Word Puzzle #4

Can you find the THREE WORDS below that are connected to diabetes wellness?  Each word starts with one of the choices from the left side column. It then continues with something from the middle column and then finishes with something from the right side column.

Clues:

  • The chemical reactions which keep us alive
  • A unit of energy.
  • A substance that provides nourishment essential for growth and the maintenance of life

Tune in To Divabetic’s popular Diabetes Late Nite podcast featuring Mila Clarke Buckley ‘The Hangry Woman’, Sex Therapist Janis Roszler, PhD, RD, LD/N, CDCES, FAND, and Bella Krueger and music from Celine Dion’s ‘Falling Into You’ album.

What is Metabolic Syndrome?

Metabolic Syndrome is a combination of several medical issues. Together they increase your chance of developing heart disease, stroke and diabetes. The condition is also known as insulin resistance syndrome. According to a national health survey, more than 1 in 5 Americans has metabolic syndrome

Insulin resistance means that the body does not use insulin efficiently to lower glucose and triglyceride levels. A combination of hereditary, genetic and lifestyle factors may result in insulin resistance.

Need A Boost?

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

Join the happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic for this free, virtual diabetes support event with style. Divabetic’s dynamic diabetes program features ‘What To Wear When Nothing Fits’ presented by Divabetic Image & Style Advisor, Catherine Schuller and ‘How To Master The Menu at Your Favorite Mexican Restaurant’ presented by MaryAnn Nicolay MEd, NDTR.

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James Corden Says He’s Fed Up With Being Unhealthy

I’m fed up with the way I look, I’m fed up with being unhealthy. This is the year I’m doing it,” admitted late-night TV host James Corden who struggled with his weight for a long time.

The Emmy Award winning actor shared his weight loss goals in an emotional video posted to the WW YouTube Page.

“I’ve realized that every year for the past decade — probably even 15 years — on January the 1st I’ve told myself and anyone that would listen that I’m going on a diet, I’m going to lose a load of weight,” the new WW spokesperson said.

He said he hasn’t had much success with diets in the past. He’s hopeful that this time will be different. He said his son, Max, 9, is a major source of inspiration.

He goes on to mention that he believes that WW has the tools to make him fulfil his resolution for this year. With James Corden’s weight loss goal, the company is also giving away a hundred of thousands of memberships.

Five weeks after starting the program, James Corden said he’s lost 16 lbs.

“And I’ve been doing some exercise, which I hate. I just can’t bare it, so I’m using the word ‘hate’. But my wife is so good at it.”

During James Corden’s YouTube interview, Oprah Winfrey said, “WW is all about making yourself more aware of what you are eating and taking responsibility for that.”

Tune in To Divabetic’s popular Diabetes Late Nite podcast featuring Mila Clarke Buckley ‘The Hangry Woman’, Sex Therapist Janis Roszler, PhD, RD, LD/N, CDCES, FAND, and Bella Krueger and music from Celine Dion’s ‘Falling Into You’ album.

Love New Recipes?

Join the happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic for this free Virtual Cooking Party with special guest, Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator Jill Weisenberger MS, RDN, CDE, CHWC, FAND on Zoom on Tuesday, March 2, 2021, 7-8 PM, EST. Jill shares her favorite quinoa recipes with us!

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Divabetic Celebrates 16 Years Of Diabetes Outreach with Style

This year, Divabetic (Divabetic.Org) celebrates sixteen years of diabetes outreach with style!

Divabetic was inspired by the late R&B legend, Luther Vandross, and founded in 2005 by his long-time assistant, Max “Mr. Divabetic” Szadek.  Divabetic, a combination of the word “diabetic” with the letter “V” inserted for Vandross, evokes feelings of power and a positive attitude associated with the great divas Luther loved, like Patti LaBelle.

In 2008, Phyllis Kornbluth shared  how her participation in Divabetic’s Support Group meeting at the McBurney YMCA changed her life for the better.

 

The mission of Divabetic is to transform lives by changing attitudes, boosting spirits, encouraging hope and motivation for those living with, affected by, or at risk of diabetes. Through innovative programs, outreach events, and online communities, Divabetic is a circle of care and support, providing a link between patients and their healthcare teams, translation of clinical speak, and a bridge between denial and acceptance, fear and confidence.

Today, Divabetic continues to offer diabetes programming with style virtually on Zoom. Why not join us?  Isn’t it time you ‘Pass The Boa’ and share your diagnosis to diva story with others living with, at risk and/or affected by diabetes?

Join the happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic for this free Virtual Cooking Party with special guest, Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator Jill Weisenberger MS, RDN, CDE, CHWC, FAND on Tuesday, March 2, 2021, 7-8 PM, EST on Zoom.

Jill Weisenberger is the author of Diabetes Weight Loss Week by Week is a bestseller and can help you manage your weight and blood sugar at the same time, The Overworked Person’s Guide to Better Nutrition offers solutions to your everyday food and nutrition problems – no matter how busy you are, 21 Things You Need to Know about Diabetes and Your Heart gives you specific actions to take to improve your health right away, and her newest book Prediabetes: A Complete Guide featuring dozens of concrete steps to lower your risk of developing type 2 diabetes and other chronic health problems.

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We strive to help others meet the challenges and opportunities of diabetes care and concerns with a Glam More, Fear Less philosophy so that no one has to struggle alone or in silence.

Divabetic New Product Spotlight: Tessie’s Teas

Rose Hall is the founder of Tessie’s Teas, a company that pays homage to the wisdom passed down from her mother and celebrates her love of tea. She was our guest on October’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast.

Q: You worked for 20-years as a mental health therapist and social worker. Tell us about that experience: 

RH: I always felt that helping others in life’s most difficult situations is my calling. I worked in the department of psychiatry at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York, the Bronx, with dual diagnosis clients, who had mental health diagnosis and drug dependency. Through the years, I also worked with teens and children with behavior issues and situations of neglect. I found out that is heartbreaking gut-wrenching work.

Q: What inspired you to start a new career as an entrepreneur after you retired? 

RH: The positions I have held over 25 years have been overwhelmingly stressful, I was burnt out, I know my life’s purpose is to help people, but I needed to do it in a different way. I am an avid tea drinker who learned at an early age the benefits that can be derived from drinking herbs, spices, and roots. 

Q: Tell about your mother, growing up in Jamaica, and the Caribbean tradition of tea drinking that inspired you to start Tessie’s Teas. 

RH: We lived with my great grandmother who drank tea every day, all day it seemed. Any ailment, she had a tea for that. She would go out and pick some bushes and boil them and tell you to drink it down and you would be better that day or the next day depending on the symptoms. I watched her live a productive life well into her 90’s, and my grandfather drinking different teas daily lived to be 107. So, these personal experiences are the reason why I believe in drinking tea.

Q: Describe your teas – flavors, etc. and your two flagship all-natural teas with no additives, no preservatives, and no caffeine.

RH: We provide ginger rolled in honey with a little cane sugar to help with the crystallization process and have mint infused with raw cane sugar. Ginger and mint have many medicinal health benefits. They have antioxidants and anti-inflammatory, digestive, and anti-viral aids while helping to boost the immune system. Mint helps with weight loss because it’s a natural appetite suppressant. I find if I drink a cup of mint tea before I eat, I eat less and feel full faster. We have customers who report losing weight from drinking our mint tea. The teas are instant – just add water, stir and enjoy. There are no additives, no preservatives, and no caffeine and they are healthy, delicious, and convenient.

Q: You traveled to over 10 countries sourcing tea and gaining an understanding of the tea business. Tell us about your experience.

RH: My best adventure was in Sri Lanka, which border’s India. My driver came to pick me up around 5:00 am because it’s a long trip up the mountain to the tea gardens. On the way up we passed an elephant orphanage in a rock quarry and experienced a remarkable scene when one of the elephants tripped on a rock and fell. The other elephants walked over to the fallen one and got done on their knees, used their shoulders as a team to push him up until he was standing again. It was amazing, I thought to myself imagine if all humans did that for each other, what would this world be like?

Q: How can people purchase your teas? 

RH: We have a website: www.tessiestea.com We’re also, on Etsy and Amazon.  

 

We’re talking about the symptoms, causes and prevention of stroke with musical inspiration from Angela Bofill  on this episode of Divabetic’s Diabetes Late Nite podcast.

Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death and a leading cause of adult disability in the US. As many as 5 to 14 percent of stroke survivors have a second stroke within one year.

Angela Bofill suffered two strokes but neither stroke could take away her positive, humorous personality and her fighter spirit. After she lost the ability to sing, she returned to the stage for “The Angela Bofill Experience” in which she skillfully narrated her life story, while her band and other singers .

Podcast guests include Angela Bofill, Catherine Schuller, Patricia Addie-Gentle RN, CDE, Neva White DNP, CRNP- BC, CDE, and Rose Hall from Tessie’s Teas.

 

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

Join the happy healthcare host, Mr. Divabetic for this free, fun Tea Party with special guests, Divabetic Image & Style Advisor Catherine Schuller, Tessie’s Teas’ owner Rose Hall and Harlem Heaven’s Hats owner Evetta Petty on Tuesday, November 17, 2020, 7 – 8 PM, EST on Zoom.

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