Paula Deen: I Have Type 2 Diabetes

Jan 17, 2012 09:29 AM ET
by Robyn Ross
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Paula Deen

Paula Deen says she has Type 2 diabetes.

"I was determined to share my positive approach and not let diabetes stand in the way of enjoying my life," Deen said Tuesday, announcing her launch of Diabetes in a New Light.

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The 64-year-old Food Network chef, who's famous for her butter and oil-laden Southern cooking, has been in the news about her health before. In October she appeared on the Dr. Oz Show to get help with quitting smoking. And last summer fellow chef Anthony Bourdain shocked her when he said she "revels in unholy connections with evil corporations and she's proud of the fact that her food is f---ing bad for you."

After learning of Deen's condition, Bourdain told Eater.com that although he takes no pleasure in hearing the information, "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."

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But Deen says her diagnosis won't stop her from cooking good food. She says she's making "lifestyle adjustments, including lightened-up versions of her favorite recipes" adding: "I'm excited to ... show others that managing diabetes does not have to stop you from enjoying the things you love."