Paula Deen was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 2009; however, it was not until 2012 that the cookbook author and chef made the news public. This caused many to assume that her recipes consisting of fatty, savory meals caused her health challenge; however, she refuted such claims, noting that she has always encouraged moderation regardless of diet.
More than a decade later, Paula has lost a ton of weight while trying to live a healthier lifestyle as she ages. Sources say the TV personality is now more responsible, calm, and modest while still thriving in her cooking career as a content creator and restaurant owner.
Paula Deen loses 52 lbs — inside her better life choices
Paula is currently trying to make better choices in life, especially since the 2013 lawsuit she faced for racially discriminating against her black employees and using slurs at them at work. Although all cases against her were eventually dismissed, Paula was also accused of sexual prejudice by the same ex-employee.
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This controversy cost Paula several contracts, business deals, and her Paula’s Home Cooking show on Food Network. Her partnership with pork producers Smithfield Foods, Lard, Salt and Sugar Company, and Butter was also revoked, which caused many of her fans to protest. She eventually apologized and promised to do better, but only so much could be salvaged from her plummeting career.
Paula today
Paula now runs a cooking show on her YouTube channel, which currently boasts more than half a million followers, and struggles to manage what is left of her food outlets. Having been unable to recover from the career hit, she is now focused on redefining her diet, cutting back on sugar and carbs, and eating more salads and lean meat.
The kitchen guru also admitted to indulging in her signature comfort meals occasionally, including southern-style delicacies like biscuits and gravy, peach cobbler, and chocolate pound cake. In addition to eliminating life-threatening meals, she prioritizes physical activity by taking regular walks and returning home for seafood instead of her usual big dinners.