Diabetes Health Type 2: Being Creative and Inspired While Managing Type 2 Diabetes
When Sharon Mirabella was hospitalized nine years ago the physicians ran some blood tests and discovered that her A1C was 6.7. Thirst was the only unusual symptom she had noticed.
Once diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes they started her on some oral medication and she met one on one with a nutritionist.
Her A1C now hovers around 5.6 and Sharon, who is 59, says that by exercising and keeping a close eye on her diet she maintains fairly steady blood sugar levels.
“I found talking with the nutritionist to be a huge help,” Sharon says, “because she explained what to look for in the supermarket. I read the labels and watch for the sugar, carbohydrate and sodium contents. She said that if my blood sugar level is high I should have some protein.
“Yogurt or a small piece of meat is good. So is eating a protein bar or drinking a protein shake which contains 30 grams of protein. I keep several protein shakes in my refrigerator and they come in handy when I feel I need something quickly.
“The best tip? Have protein available. It helps keep my blood sugar levels under control.”
Sharon, who is retired, likes taking jewelry-making classes at a local community college. “I’ve been doing this for a couple of years now,” Sharon explains, “and the teachers show us how to design and forge various types of jewelry. Working with stones and metals we make pieces – earrings, bracelets, necklaces, rings and brooches – that are large and small. Each piece is a little eclectic and a little bit beachy.
“I enjoy the fellowship of learning with and working besides other artisans who like what we do and share various ideas with each other. The camaraderie is fun and we creative people banter back and forth.”
The long-time New Yorker moved to a small fishing village in eastern North Carolina five years ago. “It was a big change,” Sharon notes, “but for several years I had vacationed there with my cousin, liked the area and decided to move.
“It’s very calm and peaceful here. Looking out at the fishing boats and watching them bring in their hauls each day is relaxing. I find that this area is the perfect setting for being creative.”
