Holmdel Man Reclaims His Health: How He Used Diet to Manage His Diabetes

Timothy Asprocolas, an active 73-year-old from Holmdel, spends his days working in landscaping, and his free time gardening, boating and fishing. About five years ago, he was diagnosed with diabetes. The physical demands of his outdoor job often led to quick, convenient meals instead of balanced nutrition, and they were starting to take a toll on his health.

"My job is demanding,” Timothy shared. “I used to have poor dietary habits. I'd drink Mountain Dew, and eat donuts and Subs on the go."

Reflecting on his family’s history with diabetes, Timothy knew he wanted to manage the condition through diet rather than immediately relying on medications like insulin.

Finding the Right Support

While Timothy’s wife was attending cardiac rehab classes at Hackensack Meridian Bayshore Medical Center, she was looking over handouts, one of which was about diabetes and nutrition. The cardiac rehab nurses walked over to her to explain that Bayshore had a diabetes and nutrition program. She told them she was interested because her husband was a diabetic and struggled with understanding what he could and could not eat, and that she would like to be more informed, too.

With a referral from his primary care physician, Timothy began working with Bayshore Medical Center Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist, Karen Campbell to establish a new approach to eating. Rather than telling Timothy he had to completely give up rich foods or his favorite treats, Karen taught him how moderation is more effective than total deprivation.

In collaboration with Timothy and his wife, Karen Campbell provided guidance on realistic, sustainable and achievable changes to improve his diabetes management.

Together, they found practical solutions that fit his busy landscaping schedule. “I advised Timothy to have regular balanced meals and snacks with consistent carbohydrates paired with protein throughout the day to manage food cravings,” Karen advised. “This helps fuel his body for his strenuous work schedule. Instead of “running on empty” and overeating in the evening as he often did previously.”

Timothy was amenable to the changes. He swapped out sweet bakery items for protein drinks, homemade trail mix and other healthy, portable snacks he could eat while on the job.

More Energy, Better Sleep

Since making these dietary adjustments, Timothy has seen a tangible difference in how he feels. He is sleeping better, wakes up significantly less tired and maintains higher energy levels throughout his workday.

When Timothy experiences an irregular blood sugar reading or has questions about managing fruit consumption, he relies on Karen to clarify the issues during his regular follow-up visits. His wife also supports his new habits by helping him monitor his food choices during social functions.

"The program was tailored to my lifestyle, allowing me to make sustainable changes while still eating the foods I like in limited quantities," Timothy confirmed.

Timothy’s advice for anyone facing a similar diagnosis is to be an advocate for your own health. He recommends making lifestyle and diet modifications before resorting to medication, and always consulting your medical team before trusting health information found online.

Next Steps & Resources

• To make an appointment with a registered dietitian nutritionist near you, call 732-888-5313.
• Learn more about nutrition services and diabetes care at Hackensack Meridian Health.