Looks like all that butter and fried chicken may have caught up with Paula Deen — on Tuesday, the Food Network star told Al Roker from NBC’s ‘Today’ show that she has Type 2 diabetes.

Deen, 64, says she was diagnosed three years ago but kept the news quiet while she learned more about the disease and came to terms with having it herself. “I wanted to bring something to the table when I came forward and I’ve always been one to think I bring hope,” she said.

Famous for her high-fat Southern cuisine, Deen wouldn’t say for sure it had played a part in her diabetes diagnosis, telling Roker that genetics, lifestyle, diet, stress and age are all factors. “On my show I share with you all these yummy, fattening recipes, but I tell people ‘in moderation.’ You can have that little piece of pie.”

She will, however, make some changes. In a message to fans on her website, she said, “Of course, I will continue to share my favorite Southern recipes, just like my mama, grandmother and family shared with me over the years. And now, I’ll be adding a little bit of a lighter touch to some of these wonderful dishes.”

She also announced she and her sons “are sharing with Americans an exciting new campaign called ‘Diabetes in a New Light,’” adding, “It’s going to be a tasty journey, and I hope that y’all will come along with me.”

 

[E! Online]

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