Nana Nyarkoa, a registered nurse based in the Bronx, New York, is passionate about educating the public on health-related issues, especially diabetes and the importance of proper sleep. In a recent talk, she broke down the key facts about diabetes and how it can affect one’s daily life.
In an interview with Dj Nyaami on Svtv Africas Daily Hustle Worldwide show explained that diabetes is a chronic condition in which blood glucose (sugar) levels are too high. Once a person is diagnosed with diabetes, it doesn’t go away, but it can be managed with lifestyle changes and medication. There are three main types of diabetes: Type 1, Type 2, and Gestational Diabetes (which occurs during pregnancy).
In simple terms, diabetes means the body’s glucose level is too high. This often results from eating too many carbohydrates such as rice, yam, and bread. The stomach breaks down these foods into glucose, which then enters the bloodstream. Normally, insulin (produced by the pancreas) helps guide glucose into the body’s cells for energy. However, in diabetes, this process is impaired.
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In Type 1 diabetes, the body does not produce insulin. It’s usually genetic and starts early in life.
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In Type 2 diabetes, the body may produce insulin, but the cells do not respond to it properly, leading to high blood sugar levels.
Common symptoms include:
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Frequent urination
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Constant thirst
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Dry mouth and skin
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Fatigue
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Blurred vision
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Weight loss
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Dizziness or fainting (especially in Type 1)
For pregnant women, gestational diabetes may go away after delivery, but those who had diabetes before pregnancy must manage it carefully throughout.
Nana shared a real-life story of a diabetic friend who failed to monitor his sugar levels and collapsed. He was rushed to the hospital and survived only because of quick intervention. She stressed that regular blood sugar checks, healthy eating, and exercise are critical. Foods like banku and fufu can be eaten in moderation, especially if they contain more plantain than cassava.
Sleep deprivation, according to Nurse Nyarkoa, is another serious health threat. Many people neglect sleep, but doing so increases the risk of:
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High blood pressure
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High cholesterol
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Weakened immune system
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Cognitive decline, including Alzheimer’s
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Depression and anxiety
She warned that chronic stress and poor sleep habits can destroy the body. She emphasized the need for 7 to 9 hours of sleep daily. She recalled a tragic story of a woman who couldn’t sleep and overworked as a live-in worker , ignored the signs, and eventually collapsed at the hospital. She died in her sleep, leaving behind $50,000 in her bag — money for her next of kin, money she had worked hard for but never lived to enjoy.
In conclusion, Nurse Nana urged everyone to:
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Prioritize their health
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Avoid sleep deprivation
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Manage stress
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Eat well
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And most importantly, listen to their bodies.
As she put it, “Money isn’t worth it if your health breaks down. When you get the chance, rest. Your body needs it.”
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