Paula Deen has brought the diabetes discussion to the forefront again. It is becoming less and less probable that one can live the modern lifestyle without developing diabetes or other serious health complications. Over the years our society has greatly increased its consumption of processed and unhealthy foods and beverages. The causes of diabetes are no mystery: excessive amounts of animal and dairy foods, rich and fatty desserts, refined carbohydrates, and sugary drinks along with a lack of natural activity.

When we develop diabetes, our bodies are starved for complex carbohydrates. Our body thrives on the complex sugars found in whole grains and whole grain products, beans, and vegetables. These whole foods have been replaced by the highly refined and processed modern diet.

Paula Deen has timed the announcement of her disease with her endorsement of Victoza, an injectable blood sugar control drug that is reported to cost upwards of $500 per month. Using an expensive drug and making attempts at pairing down a rich and excessive diet will not solve the problem. It may temporarily lower blood sugar but will not support health or address any of the causes of diabetes. My method of controlling diabetes (and other life-threatening diseases), 7 Steps to a Great Life, addresses the root causes of diabetes. Simply add to your diet and do not take away. Add whole grains such as brown rice, millet, oatmeal or unrefined pasta. Add vegetable soups. Add bean and vegetable dishes into your diet. Your new dietary choices will help change your appetite towards foods that naturally support your health. Making small changes to your current diet by adding healthful foods will control your diabetes. And my method is financially accessible to everyone.

To jump start your new lifestyle, start by walking outside for a combined thirty minutes a day– either do all thirty minutes at once, or break it up into two 15 minute walks or three 10 minute walks. Walk to the train or park your car further from your destination. Take the stairs instead of the elevator whenever possible. Walking will help cut down your cravings for sweets and other extreme foods and will stimulate your appetite for foods that will support your heath.

Maybe it is time for Paula Deen to take a big step forward and adopt some of these dietary and lifestyle changes herself. I would be happy to be her coach.