The Buckingham

Photo Credit: people.com

Southern chef Paula Deen was greatly criticized earlier this year after revealing that she had type-2 diabetes and had found out about the condition three years prior.

Deen had spoken out about her condition around the same time as she landed an endorsement deal for a new diabetes drug, so the backlash for her speaking out in the first place was created.

Deen, being known for her high calorie cooking, dropped 30 pounds and is sharing how she did it.

“I was surprised by the depth of hate,” said Deen to People Magazine referring to the backlash from earlier in the year.

She explained that the condition was not something that she had chosen, “I was given lemons and I had to try to make lemonade-without sugar!” said Deen.

Since January the southern belle has gone from a size 18 to a size 10.

Deen explained that the complete architecture of her plate has changed, she doubles up on vegetables, limits her carbohydrates to only about a spoonful.

Her shopping cart has begun to overflow with vegetables and fruit instead of her usual breads and potatoes, one of Deen’s favorites.

She even shared her own go to dessert during her weight loss, a delicious bowl of sugar-free ice cream covered with blueberries and strawberries.

Deen however still allows herself to enjoy her favorite foods once a week and still has yet to give up on fried chicken; however she indulges on this yummy country food monthly instead of weekly.

Deen also added exercise into her weight loss plan walking for 30 minutes a day, but doesn’t seem to love it quite yet, “I heard that exercise is addictive,” she told People.”So far, it’s not like cigarettes.”

With cigarettes in mind, Deen has yet to quit smoking however, it is her next challenge.

With 15 pounds still left to lose till her goal is reached, Deen is already feeling like a new person.

“I feel a thousand times better,” said Deen. “I have more energy. I sleep better. The weight loss has made my health issues better.”