I’m Eleonora, born in 1995 in the beautiful city of Turin, Italy. With a background in molecular biotechnology and a master’s in oncology from Vrije University of Amsterdam, I’ve dedicated my life to understanding and improving human wellbeing. I work as a consultant engineer in Pharma Amsterdam and I channel my passion for sports as a Swim Director for the Amsterdam Triathlon and Cycling Club. Living with type 1 diabetes since 1999, when I was three, and you know what, I've embraced it as a unique strength that fuels my dedication to triathlons and my quest for optimal health! My journey has led me to become a certified nutritionist and life coach, always striving to inspire and support others in their diabetes management and overall health journey.
My Mission
Diabetes is a full-time challenge, but with the right mindset and lifestyle, it can be managed effectively. My mission is to provide genuine insights and practical guidance to those living with diabetes, enhancing understanding and promoting a healthy lifestyle. By sharing my personal experiences, strategies, and the tools I've developed, I aim to inspire others to take control of their health. Combining cognitive behavioral therapies with medical treatments, my goal is to shift the focus from just insulin and glucose levels to a comprehensive approach that includes nutrition, exercise, and mental wellbeing. Together, we can create a supportive community where everyone can thrive despite the challenges of diabetes.
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My Science Based Method lead me from 0 to 100% results with Diabetes Type 1. From training once or twice a week with poor results to an Half Ironman (70.3 Triathlon). Today I am proud of what and how I have achieved. I am confident that the method I used to discover the right path, could be successfully shared and translated for others.
I am not a doctor and I am not pretending to be one! I am a Molecular Biotechnology Scientist graduate and an Oncology Master Scientist. I have spent years in hospital and laboratories studying and observing cells behavior, metabolism, growth and death. This made me discover the beauty and potentiality of my own body. The knowledge acquired empowered me to be my own scientist.
Everything I do today is science based, meaning that is strongly supported by my scientific background and by science out there. What I use today to manage my diabetes is tested carefully on myself, discussed with others and adopted if I consider it a successful strategy. Afterwards, my method is validated with scientific results based on performance, body weight and mental health.
Today, I am hungry to learn more and more and share with others what I have accomplished. What is my detailed therapy for diabetes, the units, and the measurements might be and probably is not the same as yours, but the strategy for success might be similar!
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My Challenges from 2022 to May 2024!
I have documented all the details of each challenge regarding emotions, feelings, blood glucose, insulin management with nutrition and performance. All my story are in My" Never too High Never too Low" Book.
TriAmsterdam Sprint
In June 2022, I competed in the TriAmsterdam Sprint, a thrilling experience despite unexpected glucose spikes due to adrenaline and tension. I completed the swim with a high glucose level and managed it through the bike and run by injecting insulin during transitions. This race taught me valuable lessons about the impact of adrenaline on glucose levels and the importance of meticulous preparation and monitoring.
Gaasperplas Triathlon Olympic
In August 2022, I participated in the Olympic Distance Triathlon at Gaasperplas, Amsterdam, with my friend Valentina. The event started smoothly with a 1.5km swim completed in 20 minutes. However, the 40km bike ride and 10km run were challenging due to high glucose levels and breathing difficulties. Despite the pressure during the run, I managed my insulin and glucose levels, rewarding myself with a gelato and a good dinner post-race.
Oudekerk Sprint Triathlon
On August 20, 2022, I raced in the Oudekerk Sprint Triathlon with the Amsterdam Triathlon and Cycling Club. The vibrant atmosphere and team spirit helped alleviate pre-race stress. Despite a low-carb diet to prevent glucose spikes, the adrenaline caused my glucose to rise, resulting in lactic acid buildup and breathing difficulties during the run. This race highlighted the significant effect of adrenaline on glucose levels and the need for real-time adjustments.
Boosban ATAC the Wave
The Boosban ATAC the Wave race was another exciting sprint triathlon where team support played a crucial role. My glucose management strategy included protein-focused nutrition and careful insulin administration. The race was an opportunity to refine my approach to handling glucose spikes caused by adrenaline and physical exertion.
Ironman 70.3 Emilia Romagna
Competing in the Ironman 70.3 in Emilia Romagna was a monumental challenge involving a 1.9km swim, 90km bike ride, and 21.1km run. This event required meticulous planning and glucose management, balancing insulin, nutrition, and physical exertion over a prolonged period. Completing this race was a testament to my endurance and the effectiveness of my diabetes management strategies.
10k Amsterdam
The 10k race in Amsterdam was a test of speed and glucose control. Despite the shorter distance, managing glucose spikes from adrenaline and exertion was crucial. This race provided insights into handling shorter, high-intensity efforts and the adjustments needed for optimal performance.
Amsterdam Half Marathon
On October 14, 2023, I ran the Amsterdam Half Marathon in challenging weather conditions. The race start time and previous antibiotic treatment added complexity to my glucose management. Despite starting with elevated glucose and facing discomfort, I managed to complete the half marathon, learning valuable lessons about patience and self-reliance in glucose control during long-distance events.
Gran Fondo Rosa 23
The GranFondo Rosa cycling race tested my endurance and glucose management over long distances. The event required balancing nutrition, insulin, and physical effort to maintain stable glucose levels. This race emphasized the importance of preparation and real-time adjustments in managing diabetes during extended physical activities.
Amstel Gold Race 23
The Amstel Gold Race, known for its challenging climbs, was a significant test of my cycling and glucose management skills. The race required strategic planning, careful insulin dosing, and nutrition management to handle the physical and mental demands of the course.
Triathlon Camp in Mallorca 2023 and 2024
The Triathlon Camps in Mallorca were intensive training sessions focused on improving my triathlon performance. The camps involved daily swims, long bike rides, and runs, testing my glucose management under continuous physical stress. These camps provided valuable experience in adjusting my insulin and nutrition strategies for high-intensity training environments.
5 Km Swim Challenge
Intergration and glucose measurement in the water, no problem, it is possible! This challenge made me go above and behond my capabilities as a swimmer and in managing diabetes!
These challenges not only pushed my physical limits but also deepened my understanding of managing diabetes in various competitive scenarios. Each race was a learning experience, helping me refine my strategies and approach to achieve better performance and glucose control.
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To know more about my challenges and my day to day diabetes management
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