Food Network Host Paula Deen Confirms She Has Diabetes

Paula Deen's refusal to skimp on heavy cream, butter, and deep-frying appears to have a price.

Fans of the Food Network know that Paula Deen is notorious for being heavy-handed with butter, heavy cream, deep-frying, cheese, and just about every other dietary red flag.

Now, the 65-year-old is dealing with the unfortunate side effect of a rich diet.

Deen has finally confirmed a rumor that has persisted since April of last year that she does, in fact, have Type 2 Diabetes. The National Inquirer first sparked the rumor, but up until now Deen has not commented on her condition.

"I was determined to share my positive approach and not let diabetes stand in the way of enjoying my life," Deen said Tuesday in an official press release. The announcement also revealed that she is starting a new campaign called "Diabetes in a New Light," which will attempt to find ways to manage the disease without preventing people from "enjoying the things [they] love."

Fellow celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain, who has long been critical of Deen's technique, told Eater.com that he took "no pleasure" in the announcement, but added in his usually blunt fashion: 

"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," he said. "How long has she known? I suspect a very long time."

Bourdain has gone on record as calling Deen the "most dangerous person to America." 

Selected Reading: People, Eater.com, Diabetes in a New Light

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