The queen of Southern cooking has formally announced she has type 2 diabetes. However, it’s clear she's not letting the diagnosis get her down. She told USA Today she is not only partnering with pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk, she’s also launching a new program called “Diabetes in a New Light,” which will offer lifestyle tips and -- of course -- recipes.
Deen appeared on NBC's "Today" with Al Roker and announced she was diagnosed three years ago, and says the news is “not a death sentence.” When Roker asked why she kept the diagnosis a secret, she said she had “nothing to give” her audience at the time.
She also admits that, yes, her infamously indulgent diet is “part of the puzzle,” but points out her media presence isn’t meant to be for everyday instruction. “It’s entertainment,” she said. “I’m your cook, not your doctor.”
The affable epicurean has come under fire for her high-fat, high-everything ways, most notoriously from fellow star chef Anthony Bourdain, who once called her “the worst, most dangerous person to America.” However, he said he “takes no pleasure” in her recent announcement.
But for those who practice moderation and love a kind face, Paula Deen’s a cultural staple! And for that reason, we’ve composed an ode:
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