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Diabetes: Benefits of Blood Sugar Testing
Diabetes: Benefits of Blood Sugar TestingAt first, testing my blood sugar seemed like a hassle. With my busy schedule, I didn't need one more thing toworry about. But after a little time, I found a routine that works for me.I check right before my meals and again about an hour after my meals. Sometimes I also check before andafter a walk or when I do a new activity. I can see how much my blood sugar goes down with activity or howmuch it goes up after eating. And it starts to make sense.Those things are affecting my numbers. So I get a clearer picture of my health. Testing helps me see theconnections— how things in my daily life affect my blood sugar. I started out by using finger-stick tests and aglucose meter, which worked great.But for the last few months I've been using a continuous glucose monitor, or CGM. It has a little sensor thatattaches to my body so I can check my blood sugar. Having all this information—right at my fingertips —helpsme make changes that keep my numbers where I want them.They aren't big changes, but they make a big difference. I watch my portions and cut down on certain foods,especially carbohydrates. Sometimes I only eat one piece of bread with dinner, and sometimes I don't haveany.I still enjoy dessert now and then, but I eat a smaller portion. You don't have to give up everything you like orcompletely change how you eat. Sometimes, after seeing how a food makes my blood sugar rise, I take a 15minute walk and that can bring my numbers down to where I want them. You don't have to be perfect.It comes down to making small, simple changes you can live with. But seeing my numbers helps inspire me.With time and practice, the testing has gotten a lot easier too— now that I understand what the numbers mean.It's just part of my day now. And seeing my numbers improve? Well, it's an immediate reward that the changesI've been making work. It's definitely worth it.This program is for informational purposes only. Publisher disclaims all guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness,or suitability of this video for medical decision making. For all health related issues please contact your healthcare provider.© The Wellness Network
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Watch this video to learn what the A1c test is and how to make a plan to reach your target blood sugar level.
Watch this video to learn how to use a finger-stick test and continuous glucose monitor, or "CGM" to check your blood sugar.
Watch this video to learn the basics of carbohydrates in foods and how they raise blood sugar.
