Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) has simplified the process of tracking glucose levels for people with diabetes. It’s painfree, requires no finger pricks and gives real-time glucose data. In my last post, I shared the benefits of using FreeStyle Libre, a CGM device, in managing diabetes effectively. FreeStyle Libre uses a sensor to continuously measure the glucose present in the interstitial fluid. And the reader can show the current glucose reading, glucose trends, patterns and Time in Range (TIR) data. In today’s post, I will share more about the role of Time in Range in managing diabetes better. And, how achieving a higher Time in Range percentage using FreeStyle Libre can reduce the risk of long-term complications of diabetes.

What is Time in Range or TIR?

Time in Range is the percentage of time an individual’s glucose levels remain within a target range. This target range is typically 70 to 180 mg/dL but it can vary from person to person. Your medical practitioner can help you set your target range. When you use a CGM device, the reader can show you when your glucose has been within the range and at what time it spiked or went down.

Image Source – www.freestyle.abbott

Higher Time in Range percentage means that your glucose levels have been in the target range for a longer period of time. On the other hand, a lower TIR percentage would indicate fluctuating glucose levels.

Increasing time spent in range has a positive impact on glucose management and lowers risks of related health issues. In fact, every extra hour in range has a positive impact on your glucose control, and every 10% increase in TIR can lower A1c by ~0.8%. Moreover, spending more TIR can reduce long-term health complications.

Importance of Time in Range in Managing Diabetes

Your CGM reader can show you the exact percentage of time when your glucose levels were in the above/below target range. By utilizing the Time in Range metric you can better understand how your daily activities are impacting your glucose levels. And, in turn, you can take appropriate actions to achieve better overall health.

Image Source – www.freestyle.abbott

Time in Range metric can help people in understanding how well they are managing their diabetes.

By using the CGM device you can aim to keep your glucose levels steady and in range, thus reducing the risk of low blood sugar & high blood sugar episodes.

Time in Range and HbA1c

HbA1c test has been considered an important means to determine the average glucose levels over the last 3 months. And, the doctors rely on the results of this test to understand how well their patients are doing in terms of managing their diabetes. HbA1c also helps in diagnosing prediabetes and diabetes.

Time in Range is an important metric that can be used in addition to HbA1c results to take charge of your glucose levels on a day to day basis. By using a CGM device like Freestyle libre, one can get insights into specific fluctuations or patterns throughout the day. People with diabetes can correlate the periods of high/low glucose levels with certain activities; like meals, physical activity, medications, stress levels or even sleep patterns and make changes in their lifestyle.

Reduce the Risk of Complications with FreeStyle Libre 

By using a CGM device, people living with diabetes can easily aim to increase their Time in Range percentage.

Achieving and maintaining Time in Range can reduce the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) episodes. Hence, higher the Time in Range, lower the risk of developing diabetes-related complications.

Since the CGM device keeps you updated at all times about your current glucose levels, your glucose trend and Time in Range, you are always in control of your health.

As soon as you notice the fluctuations, you can take appropriate measures to bring your glucose levels back in the range. Thus, Time in Range empowers you to make informed decisions about your lifestyle choices.

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As a caregiver to my husband, who has been living with diabetes, I have noticed how using FreeStyle Libre has made a significant impact on his overall well-being and diabetes management. Understanding and prioritizing Time in Range has been a transformative factor in effectively managing his diabetes.

To know more about Continuous Glucose Monitoring, visit this website.

You can buy Freestyle libre here.

The information mentioned in this document is only suggestive/for patient education and shall not be considered as a substitute for doctor’s advice or recommendations from Abbott. Please consult your doctor for more information.

Any photos displayed are for illustrative purposes only. Any person depicted in such photos is a model.

The post Role of Time in Range in Managing Diabetes using FreeStyle Libre appeared first on Growing With Nemit.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring and CGM devices have gained popularity in the past few years. Now more people are choosing CGM over BGM (Blood Glucose Monitoring) as a better means to manage their diabetes. And, this, in turn is helping them to take control of their overall health. However, there’s a huge population who is still not aware of the benefits of CGM. Hence, this question, how can CGM help manage your diabetes better in 2023? Hopefully, this post will help people living with diabetes to make better decisions for their health.

Recently, I attended a session with Blogchatter, where the nutritionist rightly said that one of the most important tools in managing diabetes is self monitoring of glucose levels using a CGM device.

Did you know that 1 in 10 adults or approx. 537 million people worldwide are suffering from Diabetes? And, India comes second with the largest number of diabetics worldwide.¹

As per IDF, this number is expected to go up to 50% by 2045.² Shocking, isn’t it?

We know that there’s no cure available for diabetes, one can only manage it by keeping their blood glucose levels in control. And, to do that, following a healthy diet, physical activity, timely medication and regular glucose monitoring become an essential part of daily life.

However, people with diabetes find the process of glucose monitoring painful & tiring as it requires multiple finger pricks (using glucometer) in a day. My husband has diabetes and he detests finger pricking and thus avoids testing. But he understands that running away from glucose monitoring is not going to help him in any way. Furthermore, ditching regular glucose monitoring may result in diabetes-related complications too.

In one of my previous posts, I discussed about the painless way to monitor glucose levels using a CGM device.

Last year, we switched to a CGM device, FreeStyle Libre by Abbott. Since then, my husband has been happy & relieved as CGM has made his life so easy. He now feels empowered & in control to make informed decisions for his health. Moreover, no more running away as glucose monitoring is not a painful affair anymore!

FreeStyle Libre Sensor & Reader

Let’s talk a bit more about this CGM device and how it works.

What is a CGM (Continuous Glucose Monitoring) device?

Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) device helps you track your glucose levels throughout the day
and night. This can become a great way to stay updated on trends on whether your glucose levels are going up, down or staying steady.

How does a CGM device work?

The CGM kit, FreeStyle Libre, comes with a Reader, a Sensor and a sensor applicator.

This sensor is a small patch like thing that one has to place at the back of their upper arm using the applicator. It has a very thin filament which goes just under the skin and then measures the glucose present in interstitial fluid.

Image Source – https://www.freestyle.abbott/

If you are wondering about the application of this sensor, then let me assure you, it’s super easy & painless to apply. Also, you will not even feel that you are wearing a sensor on your arm after a while. It’s this comfortable!

This sensor keeps on collecting real-time data (current glucose levels) and you need a Reader to read that data. It’s as simple as that!

This reader is a small handheld device (with a screen) that is used to scan the sensor and it stores all the collected data which can be accessed any time.

You know what’s the best part of a CGM device?

It not just gives you the current glucose reading without any pricks or pains but it also shows you the glucose trend. And, this means FreeStyle Libre shows you where your glucose levels have been, and where they are heading. Amazing, right?

Image Source – https://www.freestyle.abbott/

I am sure by now you are convinced that in 2023 CGM is your answer to make glucose monitoring hassle-free and a CGM device can help you manage diabetes better.

But, if you still have any doubts, let’s list down all the benefits of using a CGM device.

What are the benefits of using a CGM device?

CGM is an effective way to monitor your glucose levels, leading to better diabetes management. When it comes to diabetes, one has to manage it well and for that self monitoring of glucose levels and accordingly making lifestyle changes is the right way.

1- If you are using a CGM device, then you don’t have to do multiple painful finger pricks for testing your glucose levels.

2- A CGM device like FreeStyle Libre keeps a record of your glucose levels and shows you current glucose reading as well as glucose trend, indicating fluctuations in your glucose levels. This can help you in making changes in your diet or any particular activity accordingly and improve your lifestyle.

3- You can wear FreeStyle Libre sensor for up to 14 days and the reader can store 90 days of glucose data. This means you can make glucose monitoring hassle-free with CGM.

4- Another best part, when you are on a vacation you can remain worry free from finger pricking and testing. As no more carrying your glucometer with you every time you travel.

You may also read – 5 Simple Tips for Traveling with someone Living with Diabetes!

5- You can show your daily glucose readings & trends report to your doctor which will help them to understand your diabetes management better.

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6- With CGM, you are always aware of your glucose levels, hence, it’s easier for you to avoid diabetes related complications.

7- By using a CGM device, you can learn how certain foods, physical activity, sleep pattern, and stress are impacting your glucose levels and in turn, help you to make informed decisions.

8- FreeStyle Libre sensor is water resistant which means you can keep a track of your glucose levels even while swimming and exercising.

9- The reader can scan the sensor even through the layers of clothing, no need take off your jacket/ sweatshirt just to take the reading.

10- It is extremely beneficial for children and older people who are dependent on caregivers as they can take the readings on their own with FreeStyle Libre.

So, make 2023, the year you make glucose monitoring hassle-free with CGM!

Learn more about Continuous Glucose Monitoring here. You can buy FreeStyle Libre here.

The information mentioned in this document is only suggestive/for patient education and shall not be considered as a substitute for doctor’s advice or recommendations from Abbott. Please consult your doctor for more information.

Any photos displayed are for illustrative purposes only. Any person depicted in such photos is a model.

References-

1- https://www.statista.com/statistics/271464/percentage-of-diabetics-worldwide/#statisticContainer
2- https://www.idf.org/aboutdiabetes/what-is-diabetes/facts-figures.html

The post How can CGM Help Manage your Diabetes Better in 2023? appeared first on Growing With Nemit.

Recently, when I attended the session on Living Fully With Diabetes, I realized that it is such a common condition. Almost everyone around me has someone or the other in their family who has it. Even my husband is diabetic. But I never talked about it on my blog thinking that nobody would relate to it. Clearly, I was wrong. Hence, I thought why not share some tips on how we take care of things for my husband when we travel. So, in this post, I will be sharing the things you should know when you are traveling with someone living with diabetes.

In my last post, I shared how one can manage diabetes easily by taking care of a few things like their diet, physical activity, medicines and glucose monitoring. But all this takes a turn when one has to travel since it’s not easy to follow the same routine.

So, should we not travel and just stay at home?

Once my friend told me that he doesn’t travel with his family because his parents who are both diabetic can’t come with him. He told me that their routine goes for a toss and even a 3-day travel takes a toll on their health.

I understand that following the same routine is extremely difficult, but I feel that one can still manage their glucose levels with proper planning. Here’s what we do when we travel-

1- Continuous Glucose Monitoring

Rule 1 of managing diabetes is monitoring your glucose levels on regular basis. Keeping a tab on your blood sugar levels help in taking important decisions regarding your diet and physical activity. But, of course, traveling means carrying your blood glucose monitoring device with you everywhere.

My husband makes excuses to not to pack his glucometer so that he can avoid testing while traveling. He wants to remain free from the hassle of finger pricking and testing while on a vacation. Even if he carries it with him, he usually forgets to do the test.

Being a caregiver to my husband, I have to stay on alert during such vacations. I keep a watch on his diet and I make sure that he gets enough physical activity. I also keep a pouch with his extra medicines with me. And, I know if this is such a big matter of worry for us, it is for you too if you are traveling with someone living with diabetes.

TIP 1- Use CGM instead of BGM. Why prick when you can scan?

I have found a solution to my husband’s problem. We simply needed to shift from blood glucose monitoring (BGM) to continuous glucose monitoring (CGM).

BGM is the most common way of checking blood sugar levels and for that one has to use blood glucose meters. You use a lancet to prick your finger and apply that drop of blood on the glucose testing strip attached to the glucometer to get your current glucose reading.

Whereas, CGM is a painless way to monitor glucose levels. A CGM device comes with a sensor and a reader. In my last post, I shared about one such CGM device by Abbott called FreeStyle Libre. You simply have to apply the sensor on your upper arm, swipe the reader on the sensor to scan and see your glucose reading on the reader.

People living with diabetes for years find BGM frustrating and time consuming. So, why not shift to the painless way of monitoring. FreeStyle Libre has so many benefits like –

• It can be worn for up to 14 days.
• It’s convenient as it automatically measures & stores your glucose readings.
• It gives you 8 hours of glucose data and glucose trends.
• It’s water resistant so can be worn while you bathe or swim.
• Even a child with diabetes can use it.

So, why prick when you can scan?

2- Proper Diet

Rule 2 of managing diabetes is taking a healthy diet. But, when you are traveling with someone living with diabetes you notice that it’s not easy for them to focus on healthy eating. They can not follow the same meal plan that they follow at home. However, as a caregiver you can definitely keep a watch on what they eat.

TIP 2- Book a diabetic meal on flight!

If you are taking a flight, book your tickets with the airlines that give an option for a diabetic meal. Alternatively, you can also keep a few snacks in your hand baggage in case the meal gets delayed. If traveling by road, it’s always better to carry home cooked meal and healthy snacks for munching.

TIP 3- Request for diabetic-friendly food at the hotel!

While booking a hotel, call them and check if they provide diabetic-friendly food or if they can prepare meals on request. Most of the hotels we have stayed with were happy to cater to our request. However, they may charge extra for the special meals.

In case, we have to stay for more than 3 days, we book a cottage, they come with a fully equipped kitchen, and you get an easy option to prepare meals as you like. So, you see with a little pre-planning, diet for a diabetic can be managed easily.

3- Exercise

We all know the importance of physical activity to stay healthy. But regular exercise may become a matter of worry when on a vacation. You may have to give up your morning walks as you may want to sleep in till late and evening walks may not happen due to other plans.

TIP 4- Trek, Swim, Cycle and Play! 

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But planning your days beforehand may give you a chance to include time for physical activity. We never fail to plan a hike or trek while on a holiday. We also visit places that we can explore on foot. Most of the time, we book resorts with swimming pool so that my husband gets his exercise while enjoying at the pool. Also, we always keep some time for play. Badminton, table tennis and cycling are our favorite sports.

4- Medication when traveling with someone living with diabetes

Carry twice the medicines you need in case your stay gets extended. Also, it’s better to keep medicines in two different pouches in case one gets misplaced or you forget it somewhere. My husband keeps one in his backpack and I keep the other one with me. While booking the hotel, always check for the nearest pharmacy and its timings.

TIP 5 – Never ever skip your medicine!

Even if your sugar level is within limit, don’t skip your medicine especially when you are away from home. If you tend to forget to take medicines, then set multiple reminders on your phone or watch. It really helps!

I hope these simple tips will help you in planning your trip if you are traveling with someone living with diabetes.

Know More about Continuous Glucose Monitoring.

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Disclaimer – This is a sponsored post.

The post 5 Simple Tips for Traveling with someone Living with Diabetes appeared first on Growing With Nemit.

Diabetes (Type 2) is the most common lifestyle disease nowadays. In simple words, we say, a person with diabetes has high blood sugar levels. And, this high blood sugar can lead to many health problems. However, diabetes can be managed. The first step to managing diabetes is glucose monitoring. Recently I got to know about the painless way to check blood sugar. Yes, Glucose Monitoring Can Be Pain-free!

I had a chance to attend an event on “Living Fully With Diabetes” where the speakers talked about how Continuous Glucose Monitoring help monitor glucose levels effectively. I got to learn about a device that makes glucose monitoring pain-free.

#LivingFullyWithDiabetes

This event was organized by the Blogchatter team and they invited actor Jay Bhanushali to share his experience as a caregiver to his mother who is a diabetic for the last 10 years.

How to Manage Diabetes?

My husband is living with diabetes for the last 5 years but we still struggle to manage it effectively. He was diagnosed during a routine health check-up arranged by his company for all their employees. He had high blood sugar and was immediately asked to meet the doctor and get all the tests done. And, next came high blood pressure and high cholesterol. That day changed our lives.

Being a caregiver to my husband, I understand the challenges that come with it. And, I can say that living with diabetes is not easy at all. The fight starts with accepting the fact that you have diabetes and now your whole life and the way you live is going to change. It does not just affect the person with diabetes but also everyone else in the family.

However, the doctor assured us that if we take care of a few things, they can be managed easily.

Here are the things he emphasized on, to manage diabetes and to reduce the risk of complications.

1- Healthy Diet 

We were given a list of food items that my husband can eat. The doctor pointed out the importance of having a balanced diet. He talked about eating healthy food in the right amounts and at the right times. We were also asked to meet a dietician to devise a meal plan for him.

2- Physical Activity

When my husband was diagnosed, he was in the overweight category. So, the doctor asked him to focus on achieving a healthy weight by including 1 hour of physical activity in his daily routine. So, he started taking stairs instead of choosing the elevator or escalator. He even bought a bicycle to ride to his office. Within a year, he was able to maintain a healthy weight.

You may also read – 5 Simple Cardio Exercises Best Suited for Beginners!

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3- Timely Medication

Since there is no cure for diabetes, medicines become an essential part of managing diabetes. So, one has to take medicines on time. Additionally, the doctor emphasized on not skipping the medicine even if the blood sugar levels are within limits.

4- Regular Glucose Monitoring

Glucose monitoring is the most important part of managing diabetes. Our doctor suggested we buy a glucometer and check the blood sugar at regular intervals to keep a tab on the glucose levels. This is the toughest part I feel because it is no joke pricking your fingers every 3-4 hours. My husband doesn’t like that part at all, so many times he skips testing just to avoid the prick. Especially while we are traveling.

Living Fully With Diabetes

During the event, Jay Bhanushali talked about how he takes care of his mother’s diet and exercise. I agree with his point that people with diabetes go through various emotions so, as primary caregivers, we need to understand what they are going through.

My husband gets too demotivated on days, he sees his glucose reading is too high. That’s when I have to jump in and be there with him.

During the event, Jay also shared about the continuous glucose monitoring device, FreeStyle Libre, which his mother is using. I found it quite impressive as there’s no painful pricking involved. One has to place the sensor on their arm and use the reader to scan their glucose readings. Another best part is that it can be worn for up to 14 days.

Know more about FreeStyle Libre and Continuous Glucose Monitoring, click here: https://bit.ly/BCRDiabetes

You can buy FreeStyle Libre here.

Conclusion

Diabetes can be managed effectively if one takes care of their diet, exercise, sleep, stress levels, and takes timely medicines. And, of course, monitors their blood sugar constantly.

Disclaimer – This is a sponsored post.

The post Is there a Painless way to check Blood Sugar for managing Diabetes? appeared first on Growing With Nemit.