Paula Deen Confirms She Has Type 2 Diabetes

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Just days ago, we wrote about the rumors flying around that Paula Deen might soon announce her diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes. Now, Deen has confirmed.

The Food Network star has said that she does have diabetes but that she’s determined not to let it change her life, according to People. “I was determined to share my positive approach and not let diabetes stand in the way of enjoying my life,” Deen said.

Deen has started a new website, Diabetes in a New Light, that provides tips about living with diabetes, recipes and more. On the site, she writes “My sons Bobby, Jamie and I have teamed up with Novo Nordisk to create a program that will help you better manage your diabetes. We’re sharing some of our favorite recipes, lightened up, and creating new diabetes-friendly options that everyone will love. We’re also going to offer tips and advice to help you stay on track.” The recipes, however, are still loaded with beef, eggs and cheese, like this one for ‘Lady and Sons Lasagna.’ These aren’t exactly the foods that will help you manage your diabetes.

Meanwhile, Deen has also confirmed that she will be the new spokesperson for the drug Novartis, and says that the website is a team effort with the drug company behind the medication. “I’m excited to team up with Novo Nordisk on this initiative to show others that managing diabetes does not have to stop you from enjoying the things you love.” She is also taking a non-insulin injection, Victoza, daily and says she will “make lifestyle adjustments, including lightened-up versions of her favorite recipes.”

Anthony Bourdain, yes the foodie who bashes vegetarians and vegans, has spoken out in response to the announcement and says while he “takes no pleasure” in hearing the news, he believes Deen has known for a long time and was waiting “to position herself” to announce her diabetes. “When your signature dish is hamburger in between a doughnut, and you’ve been cheerfully selling this stuff knowing all along that you’ve got Type 2 Diabetes … It’s in bad taste if nothing else. How long has she known? I suspect a very long time,” Bourdain said. He even called her “the most dangerous person to America” last year.