The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has reported that as at July 2017 a staggering 100 million people in America have diabetes with a great number predisposed to it and this number is steadily rising. With brownies and doughnuts a cultural staple and the lack of consistent physical activity, this should come as no surprise. As clearly stated on the CDC site, “people with diabetes are at increased risk of serious health complications including premature death, vision loss, heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and amputation of toes, feet, or legs,” which should be a deterrent for over consumption of sugar, but engrained cultural habits are indeed hard to break. What is more stunning is the number of people under 18 that have been diagnosed with the disease. The marked distinction between Diabetes 1 and 2 is: Type 1 is a chronic condition in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin while Type 2 is a chronic condition that affects the way the body processes blood sugar (glucose). TYPE 2 Located in the abdomen, the pancreas essentially converts food into fuel or insulin for the body’s cells. This is also the area of the body that helps to store and use glucose. Insulin is then sent, as glucose (sugar) through the bloodstream into muscle, fat, liver, and most other cells so that the body can use it for fuel. An excess of insulin in the bloodstream can cause cells in the body to absorb too much glucose (sugar) which

One of my best Tobago experiences was my stay at Licorish Villa located in Fort Bennett, Black Rock, Tobago.  Of the six forts on theIsland of Tobago, Fort Bennett is probably the most famous. Fort Bennett overlooks Grafton Beach. The Fort was built by the Dutch between 1628 and 1636. Later on, in the 1680’s, the Courlanders refortified it in order to protect their then flourishing settlement in the Great Courland Bay area. During the 1800’s the fort fell into the possession of the British and was again refortified to protect their claim to Tobago. The fort was used for military purposes during the sugar revolution. Privateers and Buccaneers tried to interfere with British interests which consequently led to many battles. The Fort however, was a huge barrier for these pirates and the British once again were able to protect their territory and their interests. Nowadays the fort is a tranquil spot which is indeed contrary to its history. There is a small gazebo from which locals and tourists can see a panoramic view of Grafton Beach. At sundown there is an amazing sunset that is extremely breathtaking. The gazebo is the best vantage point. There is also Black Rock Beach, within close proximity. Black Rock Beach is located between Stone Haven Bay and Great Courland Bay on the western side of Tobago. It is known for its large black rocks surrounding the beach. Leatherback turtles can also be seen nesting at this site. Black Rock Beach is great for