In the body, blood sugar is a type of sugar that circulates in the bloodstream and serves as a major source of energy for the organism. It is produced by the liver, pancreas, and various other organs and tissues throughout the body.
The main factors that influence blood sugar levels are:
- Carbohydrates: these include sugars from fruits, vegetables, milk and dairy products, grains, pasta and rice.
- Protein: this includes meat, fish and eggs.
- Fat: this includes oils from plants or animals as well as butter or margarine.
- Alcohol: this includes all types of alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine or hard liquor like whiskey or vodka.
- Caffeine: this includes coffee and tea as well as cola drinks like Coca-Cola or Pepsi- Cola.
Using a home blood sugar meter is the most accurate way to check your blood sugar levels. However, if you do not have access to one of these options or if the other option is not available, there are alternative methods of checking your blood sugar levels. People with diabetes and those who need to maintain their health conditions rely on blood glucose meters and calculators to stay on top of their glucose levels. They assist them in monitoring their glucose levels and keeping them under control at all times. The two most common types of meters are:
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- Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs), which use a sensor to continuously measure blood sugar and send data via a transmitter to the wearer’s device. CGM sensors are typically worn on the upper arm, close to where blood flows in the body. Some CGMs can also be attached to someone’s cell phone, which sends the data to their doctor.
- Point-of-Care meters (POCMs), which measure blood glucose levels by inserting a thin needle into the skin and pricking a drop of blood before it can be tested. The device then calculates the value from this blood sample and transmits it to the wearer’s device. POCMs require help from a healthcare provider.
In addition, it’s important to remember that checking your blood sugar levels after consuming a sugary beverage can also be accomplished by observing the color of your urine afterward. This method, however, is not as accurate as using a home blood sugar meter or an in-office machine, which are both available. An electronic home blood sugar monitor is used by the vast majority of diabetics to check their blood sugar levels at their convenience. If you don’t have one, the following methods are other ways to check your blood sugar levels:
- Counting back from 10
- Checking your urine after drinking a sugary drink
- Looking at the color of your urine after drinking a sugary drink
- Checking the results of your home blood sugar monitor.
If you’re not sure how to use your home blood sugar meter, contact your doctor or diabetes educator for help. Your doctor or diabetes educator can also give you instructions on how to use it, if needed. There are many different types of meters on the market, so it’s important that you find one that fits your lifestyle and needs.
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Different types of meters are available on the market. It’s important that you find one that fits your lifestyle and needs.
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If you have any questions about how to check your blood sugar, please contact your doctor or diabetes educator.
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