Deen cheated viewers, herself

I simply don’t get it. Most experts feel that the ability to delay gratification is a sign of wisdom and maturity. If that is true, the decision of diabetic Paula Deen to wait three years to disclose her illness makes me wonder if she has already lost some of what has made her unique.

As a nutritionist, while I’ve never been tempted to buy into Deen’s mega butter, cream and sugar ingredient list, I do have a lot of respect for a woman who was forced by life’s circumstances to turn lemons into lemonade. She has succeeded where less-gifted people have failed. Yet, when she accepts the payoff for becoming a spokesperson for a pharmaceutical company while at the same time promoting an unhealthy diet for her followers she is cheating not only viewers but also herself.

I’ve counseled diabetics. Diabetes is a cruel, unforgiving illness which is quickly becoming an epidemic in the United States. The increase in heart attacks and strokes, the swelling of the feet and ankles, the tingling in the extremities, the failing eye sight, not to mention the increased risk of amputation — I shake my head in amazement.

How long is Deen going to be physically productive as a culinary icon? She has been given an opportunity to be a real leader. With guidance she could promote a delicious dietary plan for diabetics that would be appropriate for all Americans, including her own family. Instead, she chose the dollars offered by the drug industry today. Ms. Deen, I’m disappointed.

Audrey T. Beauvais

Arlington Heights