The Best Glucometer In 2022 - 7 Glucometers Reviews
The Best Glucometer In 2022 - 7 Glucometers Reviews
What is a glucometer and how does it work?
Also called a glucose meter, this portable and compact device is designed to monitor your blood sugar levels. It requires a tiny sample of blood (generally from your fingertip) to read the amount of sugar present in it.
They range from the most basic to the most advanced models with multiple functionalities and options. Do you wonder why there is such a large variety of glucometers? Unfortunately, a 2012 study in the United States reported that 12 to 14% of American adults had type 2 diabetes, while 37 to 38% were classified as prediabetic.
What types of glucometers are there? Connected glucometer
We live in a world that is more connected every day, and having data at our fingertips is a massive advantage. In comparison to standard glucometers, the connected glucometer will give you readings in fewer than five seconds, and it is automatically transferred to the app on your phone via Bluetooth. Besides, this functionality allows you to keep your doctor in the know.
Continuous glucose monitor
A continuous glucose monitor measures blood sugar levels continuously using a sensor inserted under the skin. Compared to the standard or connected glucometers, you don’t need to prick your finger. It can produce up to 288 glucose values per day. You need to do regular checks on your fingertip to calibrate the instrument. There often may be insertion issues and the sensors may fall off if they aren’t appropriately secured.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Glucometers
It is essential that you understand the advantages and disadvantages of a standard glucometer in order to be able to make the best purchase decision for yourself.
Advantages
Disadvantages
Since there are dozens of manufacturers and models available on the American market, it is essential that you familiarize yourself with the main shopping criteria for the best purchase and compare them with each other. When you go to choose a specific glucometer, keep in mind the aspects that we will discuss in the following section. If you have any doubts regarding a specific product, you should always contact the manufacturer before buying it.
Size
While all glucometers are handheld, some are more compact and easier to handle than others. That said, these small designs also mean that the screen and values can be harder to read. If you have any eye condition, we recommend that you opt for a larger glucometer with bigger test strips.
Storage Capacity
The whole point of these medical instruments is to monitor your glucose levels to make sure you are not having any issues with them. Some models can store as few as 300 readings. If this is too few for you, you will want to go for a device with a larger storage capacity. You can also find Bluetooth-enabled glucometers that will immediately sync the data with an application on your smartphone.
Did you know that test strips that are not authorized for sale in the U.S. may not be safe to use because their ability to provide an accurate result is unknown to the Food and Drug Administration?
Accessories
There is such a wide range of the best models on the market that everybody can find the perfect glucometer for their needs and preferences by comparing them with each other. These devices can integrate a number of different features, from easy-to-use buttons and large test strips to illuminated LCDs and audio guidance to help individuals with eye conditions.
Customer Service
You may not think so at first, but having the best technical assistance is paramount when it comes to health-related or medical devices. This is why most glucometer manufacturers offer a toll-free number you can call for help at any time. In addition, the opinion of experts tells us to purchase a device with clear instructions for use. Some brands also provide an instruction manual on their website.
Insurance Coverage
Since this product should be prescribed by your physician, you must contact your health insurance provider for more information regarding its coverage. Some insurances work with specific models or limit the total number of free strips you have access to. Check this information beforehand to avoid spending money unnecessarily.
Related Links and Sources FAQs When should I replace my glucometer?
There is no specific time at which you must change the device because various factors come into play. However, regarding experts' opinions, a general rule of thumb says that you will have to replace it every year or two. This is a reasonable life cycle as long as you take care of the batteries, clean the glucometer as instructed, and use new test strips.
Another way to know if you should replace it is when it starts giving unusually high or low blood sugar results. If this happens, retest immediately to verify the values provided. It will be time to find a replacement for your device when the readings aren’t confirmed.
How many times per day should I use my glucometer?
Your physician will tell you how often you need to check your blood sugar. Generally speaking, the number of tests carried out every day depends on the type of diabetes you have and your treatment plan.
Type 1 diabetes: Your doctor may recommend testing anywhere from four to ten times a day. This will usually happen before meals and snacks, before and after physical activities, before going to bed, and sometimes during the night. Testing can increase when you change your daily routine, start a new medication, or are sick.
Type 2 diabetes: The number of times you have to check your blood sugar levels depends on the type and amount of insulin you use. If you are getting multiple injections a day, you may have to test before meals and at bedtime. However, twice a day—before breakfast and dinner—is generally enough if you are using long-acting insulin. If you control your type 2 diabetes with medication or with diet and physical activity, you may not need to test your blood sugar levels every day.
How should I use my glucometer?
Your doctor can always help you learn to use your device. However, here are the basics steps to checking your blood sugar levels.
1) Wash and dry your hands thoroughly.
2) Insert a test strip into your device.
3) Prick the side of your fingertip with the lancet provided with your glucometer.
4) Squeeze or gently massage your finger until a drop of blood comes out.
5) Touch and hold the edge of the test strip on the blood drop.
6) After a few seconds, check the glucometer display to see your glucose levels.
How can I clean my glucometer?
These medical instruments must be cleaned regularly to remain accurate. Use a soft cloth dampened with soap and water to avoid damaging delicate parts. You should never use alcohol, ammonia-based cleaners, glass cleaners, or abrasives. Some models integrate an alert to tell you when it is time to clean the device.
Can I use a glucometer if I am diagnosed with gestational diabetes during pregnancy?
This is precisely when this device becomes a must-have for you. For a healthy pregnancy, you must check your blood sugar levels several times a day and take note of the results every time. Most women with gestational diabetes should have the following blood glucose levels.
95 mg/dL or less: before meals, at bedtime, and during the night;140 mg/dL or less: one hour after eating;120 mg/dL or less: two hours after eating.
What should I do if I have high blood sugar levels?
When this happens, ask for the opinion of your healthcare provider. They should tell you whether you need to take medication or insulin. That being said, there are ways to help you lower your blood sugar levels.
- Exercise regularly
- Control carbohydrate intake
- Increase fiber intake- Monitor food portions
- Monitor stress levels- Invest time in quality sleep
- Eat foods rich in chromium and magnesium
- Try apple cider vinegar
- Experiment with cinnamon extract
- Try berberine- Eat fenugreek
- Lose weight if you are a little overweight
Buying Link:-
No comments: