Performance with CGM

Indeed, we humans are complicated living beings on this planet– and each of us has a unique genetic, microbial and biological blueprint. An unhealthy diet affects the body's metabolic health, changing how energy is used and stored. The fact is that each person must decide the diet that best supports their body's optimal functioning. Fortunately, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) can help you achieve your goals.

CGM is a wearable device that allows you to keep track of your blood sugar levels throughout time. A CGM device ia an FDA-approved technology that monitors your blood sugar levels 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by taking a reading every 5 to 15 minutes automatically. It can help you spot trends and patterns, giving you a complete picture of your metabolic health.

What is CGM and how does it work?

It is a process that continually monitors the glucose (sugar) in your blood through an external device attached to give real-time updates on your blood glucose patterns and trends. The sensor is held in place by an adhesive patch and may capture glucose measurements in the interstitial fluid all day and night. Sensors must be replaced every 7 to 14 days in most cases.

CGMs measure the body’s glucose levels in real-time by sensing the glucose present in tissue fluid (also called interstitial fluid) through a sensor placed on your skin and transmits those readings to a small recording device called receiver. The CGM device has 3 components: the Sensor, Transmitter, and Receiver.

The Sensor consists of a tiny probe that is inserted under the skin of the upper arm using a simple applicator. Once placed, the device continuously records your glucose levels throughout the day/night for a duration of 14 days.

The Transmitter sits on top of the sensor and is attached to an electrode that sends glucose information to a separate receiver or a smartphone app.

The Receiver displays real-time glucose level, whether blood glucose is trending up or down, and your overall glucose history.

The method sends real-time readings to a monitor device that shows your blood glucose levels through a tiny, reusable transmitter linked to the sensor, where it display information via a smartphone, so you don't need any extra gadget.

CGMs give persistent, dynamic glucose information every 5 minutes, unlike standard fingersticks (blood glucose metres), which only provide a single glucose reading. It works out to about 288 reads every day. CGM does not replace traditional home monitors. To keep the monitor correct, you'll need to check your blood sugar many times a day using a standard glucose metre. Most monitors still require a finger poke, and the sensor under your skin should be replaced every 3 to 7 days.

Previously, only doctors had access to the data produced by CGM devices. Now, anyone may use the gadgets as a part of their metabolic management at home. Bluetooth Devices can be used to send blood glucose data straight to compatible smartphones or tablets, eliminating the need for a separate receiver.

Advantages of using a CGM device

1. Shows how Food, Activity and Sleep affects your glucose levels

Every few minutes, the CGM device monitors glucose levels. This information provides a more detailed view of how your blood sugar levels fluctuate over time. This data can help you and your doctor better understand how diet, exercise, stress and sickness affect your blood sugar levels.

2. Personalised Care

The CGM device does not tell you everything about how it affects you. It only notifies you when your blood sugar level rises or falls, not why. Your healthcare practitioner, on the other hand, may collect CGM data from your device and analyse it for patterns and trends. Based on what they've learnt, they can tailor your treatment.

3. Provides Regular Updates

When your glucose levels rise or fall by a specific amount, most CGM devices give out an alarm. You may make modifications rapidly using this information. You might be able to cure or avoid extreme highs or lows before they become a major issue.

4. Proactive Response

CGM devices gather glucose measurements every few minutes and allow you to establish customizable thresholds with notifications if your readings fall outside of your specified range.

5. Reduces Fingerstick Tests

CGM systems monitor glucose levels directly beneath the skin using small sensors. These sensors are linked to a transmitter, which sends readings to a receiver or a suitable smart device via wireless transmission. With just a look, you may view your reading at any moment.

Also read about uses and side effects of sugar tablet.

Bottomline

At the end of the day any data is meaningless if it cannot be interpreted correctly or not used by a provider to aid in diagnosis and a more focused treatment approach. Remember, CGM is a personal tool and not necessarily a single aspirational target or range that is universal. Your individual goals will depend on your needs, dietary and lifestyle habits, Based on your unique presentation and recorded CGM data, your coach will guide you on how to interpret and use your data to make the appropriate decisions to achieve your blood sugar goals.