A Game Changer for Diabetics! FreeStyle Libre

FreeStyle Libre Flash Glucose Monitoring System is a revolutionary glucose monitoring concept that provides greater data and convenience than blood glucose testing. Moreover, it is more affordable than CGM (Continous Glucose Monitors). Abbot FreeStyle Libre is a bloodless glucose meter that provides instant glucose readings by simply scanning a sensor instead of pricking your finger! This is great news for the Diabetes Community patiently waiting for these developments.

Non-Invasive Glucose Meter: How does it work?

Freestyle Libre features a tiny, flexible glucose sensor (0.2mm long) that is worn just under the skin and attached to a round, water-resistant on-body patch.

The sensor is the size of a one-dollar coin and it remains in place for 14 days. Additionally, it’s factory calibrated and it will begin reading glucose and relaying data one hour after putting it on the upper arm.

The device is approved for use except in three cases where the normal finger-stick is recommended; when glucose changes rapidly, when hypoglycemic, and when your symptoms don’t match the readings provided by the system.

Most people who participated in patient trials of the devices rated the application of the fiber sensor as painless or less painless compared to traditional CGM (continuous glucose monitor). Moreover, the insertion process is very simple and it does not require any training. The insertion process takes about 15 seconds and it can be done even with one hand.

Using the FreeStyle Libre Flash Glucose Monitoring System

Take the touchscreen reader and hold it near (within an inch) the round sensor disc, and wait for the reader to beep. You will get your real-time glucose value in less than a second and you can also see your glucose trend arrow and a trend graph that shows the last 8 hours of data. You can also download reports from your reader device to your MAC or any other PC-compatible software.

Therefore, besides getting glucose readings as you would with the conventional blood glucose meters, you can also see whether your glucose levels have started going down, up, or are unstable.

Although the upper arm might seem like an annoying and very noticeable location, the round sensor is conveniently small and light, so you’ll soon forget that you’re even wearing it. The sensor comes with a strong adhesive in order to ensure that it stays intact on your skin for the entire 14-day period. Despite the activity you engage in, FreeStyle libre will not require any additional taping. However, Abbott is actively pursuing approval for various alternate wear locations that are more discreet (e.g., thigh, stomach).

How do you scan the sensor disc to obtain data?

Unlike continuous glucose monitors (CGM), the device must be scanned using the reader to obtain data (real-time value, trend, and graph,) because it does not continuously send real-time data to the touchscreen reader. The sensor stores 8 hours of data at a time with the values being taken every minute.

The FreeStyle Libre Flash Glucose Monitoring System has an outstanding scanning process that takes an average of two seconds. You simply need to touch the button on the screen reader to turn it on and bring up the sensor menu.

Non Invasive Glocose Meter Freestyle Libre — Silicone Case for Freestyle Libre Monitor

From there, hold the reader an inch from the sensor to obtain the real-time glucose value, trend, and past 8 hours of glucose data. The data is displayed on a clear and simple line graph.

Scanning takes 1 to 2 seconds and works through several layers of regular clothing. This allows for excellent flexibility and discretion. On the other hand, you can tag scans such as exercise, insulin carbs, and customizable options right from the home screen.

Scanning the sensor patch is associated with a certain cool factor, psychological pleasure, and fun quality. Additionally, the scans are accompanied by an inspiring ‘ding’ sound that is followed by the immediate display of data on your reader.

This will help you beat and forget the hassles associated with traditional blood glucose tests. This is largely because there is no cost associated with additional glucose scans and there is no limit to the number of scans you can take.

When will the Freestyle Libre be available in the US?

FreeStyle Libre Flash (real-time) Glucose Monitoring System version is currently available in most European countries and in Australia where it was approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) early this year (February 2016). However, it’s not clear when FreeStyle libre will launch in the United States. Since Abbot has not yet submitted the device to the FDA, it likely won’t be available until 2017 or even later. However, the FreeStyle Libre pro is hoping to get approval from the FDA anytime now – since it has been under review by the FDA since 2015.

Bookmark this site, to return for regular updates on the Bloodless Glucose Meter.

FreeStyle Libre Pro Now HAS FDA APPROVAL – IN THE US – READ MORE HERE!

Best Blood Glucose Meters 2022

Blood glucose meters are small portable devices that are used to monitor blood sugar levels. Using a glucometer, patients are able to manage diabetes better by tracking the fluctuations in their blood sugar levels. There are two main types of glucose meters:

CGM(Continuous glucose meter) and there is the manual BGM(Blood glucose meter).

Factors to Consider when Purchasing a Blood Glucose Meter

Accuracy

Some glucometers are more accurate than others therefore it’s important to confirm the accuracy of a glucometer before purchasing it. This also helps prevent false readings of your blood sugar level which may have adverse effects in the long term.

Cost of the Glucose Meter

Be sure to purchase a blood glucose meter that is within your budget. It’s also important to consider features such as Bluetooth and smartphone compatibility with excellent data management features.

Cost and availability of the test strips

Check the long-term cost of test strips since they are usually the most expensive part of using blood glucose meters. A glucometer may be expensive but its cheap test strips may be affordable and vice versa. It’s also important to choose a meter whose test strips are widely available. Remember, some test strips are only available in online stores which aren’t ideal for emergencies.

Data management and connectivity

Choose a glucometer with a good data management system that provides you and your doctor with relevant information required for the proper management of diabetes in order to minimize potential adverse long-term health effects. It’s also important to check whether your glucometer can transfer data to other devices and its ease of use.

Mobile applications are better than desktop software because Bluetooth allows your glucometer to instantly transfer your readings to the data management system on your phone. Using some desktop software can be daunting largely because you have to access a computer and use a USB cable for connection. Mobile applications also make it easy to add notes from your phone immediately after taking a blood test which gives you an accurate assessment of your condition.

Insurance cover

Since the long-term cost of operating a Glucometer can be high, there are insurance plans which cover the costs of the glucose meter and test strips. One of the potential downsides of using insurance to cover costs associated with purchasing and using a glucometer is that the plan might dictate the specific brands that patients should use. Therefore, you should contact your insurance provider about what brands are covered under your insurance plan to check whether your preferred brand is included. Let’s explore some of the best blood glucose meters available in the market

CONTOUR NEXT ONE

According to third-party tests Contour, Next One has an accuracy of 99%. Despite having a small display, it features Bluetooth compatibility and also comes with a companion application that allows you to sync readings to your phone.

It also allows you to make notes which make data management very easy and you can easily track your readings and trend. Contour Next One is also one of the most affordable glucometers in the market and its test strips are widely available in most online stores and pharmacies.

FORA 6 CONNECT

FORA 6 Connect is one of the best glucometers for insulin-dependent diabetics. The glucometer features a big display that is easy to read. This multi-functional Glucometer is compatible with strips for measuring both blood sugar and ketones which makes it ideal especially for insulin-dependent diabetics.

FORA 6 Connect is a great device for diabetes patients who are following a keto diet because it aids in the effective management of their blood glucose levels. Despite being affordable, this glucose meter is only available in select stores. The meter features a companion application called the iFORA HM App and using the Bluetooth functionality, patients are able to sync readings. The application is easy to use and you can also add notes to specific readings. It also displays data form of graphs and charts for quick and easy analysis.

FORA TN’G VOICE

This is a great glucometer for diabetics with poor eyesight because it has a voice feature that reads out readings to users. The voice feature also helps users navigate through other features without relying on the display.

The voice guide is loud and easily understandable. Its test strips are quite affordable and it also features a companion application that allows users to sync their readings. The app comes with excellent data management features.

TRUE METRIX AIR

This is the best glucometer for value largely because its test strips are affordable and easily available. True Metrix Air features a companion app that allows users to sync data via Bluetooth. Its long-run costs are also considerably lower compared to other blood glucose meters.

DARIO

This is the best glucometer when it comes to data management. Despite being compatible with Android devices, users must download its companion app. However, it’s quite convenient to use because it does not require a USB cable to connect to the computer or Bluetooth connectivity to connect to your smartphone. It is ideal for data management and the display size is determined by the size of your smartphone’s screen. The dario companion app is well designed and user-friendly. The app is also designed to display large figures in different colors for easy and quick analysis.

ONE-TOUCH ULTRA MINI

One-Touch Ultra Mini is the best compact blood sugar meter. It’s an excellent choice for diabetics who are looking for a discreet and compact glucometer to tuck into their pocket or purse.

Since there are many different factors that affect blood sugar levels, it’s essential to keep track of the fluctuating blood sugar levels. Blood glucose meters help diabetes patients manage the condition better and prevent serious complications such as nerve damage (neuropathy), kidney problems, and blindness.

Read more information about help for diabetic FOOT PAIN!

Top 3 Non Invasive Glucose Meters 2023

Post updated: 10th May 2023

The routine activity of pricking fingers to monitor blood glucose levels is quite hectic for most people with diabetes. Despite this dreadful daily process, the management and control of diabetes are very important. Fortunately, new glucose meters that don’t require blood, for checking blood glucose levels are being developed by numerous companies around the globe, as we speak – welcome relief for many, many diabetes sufferers.

1.FreeStyle Libre

FreeStyle Libre by Abbott is an entirely new glucose monitoring concept that provides much greater data than CGM (continuous glucose monitors). The readings are provided by simply scanning a sensor instead of pricking your finger.

When you buy through links on our website, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support 🙂

Main advantages of FreeStyle Libre

Lightweight and compact to carry around
It provides a graph of how glucose levels are varying just like a CGM (Continuous Glucose Monitor)
Users can see how the results are trending downwards or upwards by simply scanning the sensor.
The FreeStyle Libre sensor is waterproof for 30 minutes in up to 1 meter.
More affordable than continuous glucose monitors.
The backlit color touch screen can be read in the dark

One of the main benefits of FreeStyle Libre is that it stores up to 90 days of data and you can easily analyze your glucose trend over three months.

See the latest news and Approvals for Freestyle Libre USA. HERE!

For Freestyle Libre Australia Updates, Click Here.

2.GlucoWise

GlucoWise allows the concentration of blood sugar to be measured at the blood capillary level. Blood glucose levels are measured by a non-invasive technique by transmitting low-power radio waves (65 GHz) to sections of the body such as the earlobe or between the forefinger and thumb. Besides having an adequate blood supply, the tissue in these areas is thin enough for the radio waves to pass through.

The radio signals are received by a receiver that collects and analyzes data about the characteristics of your blood. User data is digitally encrypted and transmitted via Bluetooth 4.0 to ensure that user data is never shared with third parties.

Data can also be uploaded to a secure online database or transmitted to computers using a USB port. Although GlucoWISE is still in development, their team is on the job, and extremely motivated to bring it to you as soon as they can:)

3.Dexcom G5 CGM mobile system

Dexcom G5 is a CGM (continuous glucose monitoring) system that is approved for both adults and children two years and older. Dexcom G5 mobile uses Bluetooth technology that is built into a transmitter that allows for remote viewing of blood glucose levels and trends from compatible smart devices. Users can monitor glucose data by using a Dexcom mobile receiver or the Dexcom G5 mobile app.

Benefits of the Dexcom G5 mobile system

Its small sensor measures blood sugar levels just underneath your skin.
Real-time glucose monitoring: The Dexcom G5 provides continuous and real-time glucose readings, allowing users to see their current glucose levels at any time. This helps individuals make informed decisions about their diabetes management, such as adjusting medication, diet, or physical activity.
Data sharing and remote monitoring: The Dexcom G5 allows users to share their glucose data with designated people, such as healthcare providers, family members, or caregivers. This feature facilitates remote monitoring and enables others to assist in diabetes management, enhancing safety and support for users, especially in critical situations.
Trend data and alerts: The system displays trend arrows to indicate the direction and rate of glucose changes. This feature helps users identify patterns and understand how their glucose levels are trending over time.

With Dexcom G5, users will be alerted directly on their smart devices when they’re heading too high or too low, reducing the risk of severe hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. Also, alerts can be customized to appear as text messages for additional privacy and discretion.

Fantastic news, for the diabetes industry, and for everyone patiently waiting in the Diabetes Community too!

Find out more information on the Dexcom G6 HERE!

Diabetes Patches for Continuous Blood Glucose Monitoring

Post Updated: 27th March 2023

Managing diabetes can be challenging largely because you not only have to watch what you eat but also keep track of your blood sugar levels. People who need insulin have to stick their fingers and give themselves shots several times each day. However, thanks to technology, diabetic patches for continuous blood glucose monitoring can make it more convenient and easier to live with diabetes.

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems offer a significant advantage for people with diabetes, compared to traditional blood glucose monitoring methods. The CGM system is a device that measures blood sugar levels continuously throughout the day, typically every 5-10 minutes, providing a more detailed view of a person’s glucose levels over time.

Are diabetic patches reliable?

Not all of these diabetic patches have been approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration). Reliable patches that have been approved by the FDA are designed to closely monitor blood glucose levels. Therefore, diabetic patches are not just fancy patches or stickers. They are an integral part of diabetes management. They have been tested and approved by the FDA to make sure they are safe.

However, some nonprescription “diabetic patches” sold at some online drug stores are very different. They claim to treat diabetes symptoms with herbs that are delivered through the skin. There’s no scientific evidence that they actually work. In fact, there is insufficient research on them.

Continuous blood glucose monitoring systems.

When you buy through links on our website, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support 🙂

With these systems, people living with diabetes stick a sensor on their skin. Then they use devices that work with the sensors.

In some cases, patients use their smartphones to scan the sensor. These sensors show real-time information about blood glucose, including daily level patterns.

Most continuous glucose monitoring systems (CGMs) report blood glucose levels every 5 minutes amounting to a total of 288 blood sugar readings a day. CGMs are designed to help you make informed decisions about various aspects of the condition such as exercise and food choices. They alleviate the guesswork surrounding daily blood sugar fluctuations and patterns.

How does it work?

Most continuous glucose monitoring systems consist of 3 main parts:

Sensor wire

This is a tiny wire that is inserted just under the skin, usually on the abdomen or arm. The sensor wire uses an applicator to measure interstitial glucose levels automatically, rather than measuring glucose found in the blood from your veins. An adhesive patch holds the patch firmly in place.

Transmitter

The transmitter is attached to the wire sensor. It sends blood glucose data to the receiver every few minutes. The transmitter uses wireless technology to send data to the receiver.

Receiver

The receiver displays blood glucose levels, patterns, and trends.

Some continuous glucose monitoring systems use Bluetooth technology to transmit blood sugar information to compatible tablets and smartphones. This helps bypass the need for standalone receivers. Some CGMs can also be combined with insulin pumps.

Other devices include cloud-based reporting systems that transmit glucose information via the cloud to up to 5 selected recipients, such as a medical provider, caregiver, or parent.

Moreover, this allows doctors to easily access the information, hence facilitating the tracking of trends and displaying patterns in graphical form for analysis.

Some devices also allow users to input information about snacks, meals, physical activity, and medication to further help with the analysis and tracking of blood glucose trends.

Pros

Here are some benefits of using a CGM system for people with diabetes:

Improved quality of life: CGM systems reduce the need for fingerstick tests and manual logging of glucose readings, which can be time-consuming and inconvenient. CGM systems also provide individuals with more flexibility in their daily activities and reduce the fear of hypoglycemia.
Helping detect patterns and trends in glucose levels. CGMs show dips and spikes in blood sugar when is inconvenient to check blood glucose levels frequently.
Better communication with healthcare providers: CGM systems provide healthcare providers with more comprehensive data on an individual’s glucose levels, allowing for more targeted treatment plans and better overall management of diabetes.
CGMs help clarify the effects of exercise and diet on blood glucose levels.
Early detection of high and low blood sugar: CGM allows individuals to detect high or low blood sugar levels earlier than traditional monitoring methods, which can help prevent serious complications such as hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia.
Most importantly, CGMs help to enhance security and confidence by helping you understand your diabetes better. It can give you more confidence in the way you manage your diabetes and help you achieve tangible results.
It is also comforting to get a clear picture of how your glucose levels are trending. This allows you to go for gym sessions or walks without fearing spikes or dips and to reach both your diabetes and fitness health goals efficiently.

Cons

Despite the advantages, CGMs also have their limitations that should be taken into consideration:

Although continuous glucose monitoring systems deliver readings automatically, twice-daily finger sticks are necessary to calibrate the device for accuracy.
CGMs often display lower blood sugar readings compared to intravenous blood sugar.
CGM devices are expensive and require a prescription to get one.

Who should use continuous glucose monitoring systems?

According to the Endocrine Society Guidelines, CGMs should be used by type 1 diabetes patients with A1C levels above 7%. It is also important to understand the technology used by CGMs to reap maximum benefits.

Intermittent use of CGMs is usually appropriate for patients with hypoglycemic unawareness (inability to identify the signs and symptoms of dips in blood glucose levels), overnight hypoglycemia, or intensive insulin therapy (tight blood sugar control). Some of the FDA-approved CGMs include Dexcom G5, Dexcom G6, Freestyle Libre, and Medtronic Guardian Connect.

The bottom line:

The continuous glucose monitoring system is a valuable tool for people with diabetes, providing real-time data that helps individuals make more informed decisions about their diabetes management, leading to better glucose control, improved quality of life, and better communication with healthcare providers.

Read about the top 5 companies developing non-invasive glucose monitors HERE!

Non Invasive Blood Glucose Monitor

Top 5 companies developing non-invasive glucose monitors in 2023

The successful development of a non-invasive glucose monitor that can accurately measure blood sugar levels for diabetics without the need to prick the skin has been in the works for decades.

Why wouldn’t diabetes patients flock to a device that can take blood sugar levels through saliva, sweat, or a wristband that uses radiofrequency technology?

Even in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, many companies have been pushing forward CGM (noninvasive continuous glucose monitoring) space.

However, to date, it has been hope versus hype, as attempts to develop accurate non-invasive glucose monitors have failed. Yet, experts still have hope for the potential for non-invasive devices to soon become a reality in the next 5 years.

How does a non-invasive glucose monitor work?

There are systems being developed for home use as well as hospital and in-clinic use. Home systems are typically wearables whereas hospital systems will be tabletop or non-wearable systems.

Analysts categorize non-invasive glucose monitors by the type of technology used – mainly, various forms of spectroscopy, which helps identify chemicals according to the interaction of electromagnetic radiation and molecules.

Can I check my blood without pricking my finger?

Spectroscopy uses lasers and it does not prick the skin. Researchers have been studying this technique for decades with scientists from universities such as MIT finding that it can be used to produce accurate data on blood sugar levels. Although many barriers still exist, scientists predict that non-invasive glucose monitoring is poised for success in the near future.

Non-invasive glucose monitoring devices can be classified into three main categories:

NIO-GM (non-invasive optical glucose monitoring: Is designed to pass a type of radiation through vascular regions of the body.
NIFS-GM (non-invasive fluid sampling): These devices analyze fluid samples (saliva, urine, sweat, tears, etc.) that are collected non-invasively.
MI-GM (minimally invasive devices): Involves inserting a sensor just underneath the skin (in the subcutaneous layer), such as CGM devices that exist today.

Who is developing non-invasive continuous glucose monitoring devices?

Here are some tech companies currently making progress in the non-invasive CGM space:

1. Scanbo

Scanbo Non invasive glucose monitor — ‘Scanbo’ Non-invasive glucose monitor

At the CES (Consumer Electronics Show) In January 2022, Scanbo, an AI (Artificial Intelligence) company based in British Columbia gave a glance at their technology that uses a 60-second non-invasive finger measurement rather than the traditional finger prick.

Scanbo has created a prototype that uses a combination of a Photoplethysmogram (PPG) and a 3-lead ECG to measure blood volume. The device requires users to place their fingers on a white sensor and the device uses a combination of algorithms to provide insight into blood glucose values.

2. GWave

GWave, from Israel-based Hagar Technology, is a non-invasive glucose monitoring device that features a sensor placed inside a lightweight bracelet that detects glucose levels using radio frequencies.

The bracelet connects to a mobile app that displays readings and allows users to share data with their doctors. Hagar Technology received FDA (Food and Drug Administration) fast-track title in 2021 after receiving funding from a series of investors.

The company has reported that clinical trials for the GWave are in progress.

3. SugarBEAT

Nemaura Medical, a company based in the UK has developed SugarBEAT, a non-invasive glucose monitor that has already been approved for use in Europe. It is a small patch that attaches to the skin for up to 24 hours before requiring replacement. The peel-and-patch rectangular transmitter sends readings via Bluetooth to a companion mobile app every 5 minutes.

The device passes a non-perceptible electric current through the skin, which draws small amounts of glucose molecules into the patch attached to the skin. Selected molecules are drawn from the interstitial fluid just below the skin’s top layer.

Although Nemaura Medical had originally submitted SugarBeat to the FDA in 2019, the company was requested to resubmit it with additional data. Meanwhile, the company is launching proBeat in the US, an unregulated CGM version designed for people with type 2 diabetes.

4. Know Labs

KnowU and UBand Non invasive glucose monitoring — KnowU and UBand Bio-RFID non-invasive blood glucose monitors

Know Labs, a company based in Seattle, Washington is developing two non-invasive glucose monitoring devices that use Bio-RFIS (Body-Radio Frequency Identification) technology which measures molecular signatures in the blood using radio waves.

The company is developing a finger-scanning device as well as a wristband-style device that eliminates the hassle of having to prick the skin to get blood glucose readings.

UBand

UBand is a wristband-style device with an in-built biosensor that continuously monitors sugar levels. The device will send the readings to a smartphone app where users can view and analyze readings. The device will have a battery life of up to 7 days and is aimed at diabetes patients who are interested in continuous glucose monitoring.

KnowU

Just like traditional gingerstick glucose meters, Know you are small enough to fit in your purse or pocket. However, unlike traditional glucose monitors, it does not require test strips.

You simply need to scan the device over your palm to get readings that will be displayed on the device itself or transmitted wirelessly to a mobile phone app. This device is mainly aimed at people with diabetes who want a small, portable device that can be used to monitor glucose levels without the traditional finger pricks.

Read more on diabetic watches HERE!

5. DiaMonTech

DiaMonTech is a Germany-based company that has created a system that employs molecular spectroscopy to detect blood sugar molecules right through the skin. The company is currently working on 3 versions:

The D-Pocket, is a hand-held device that requires users to press their finger on the device to get a reading. The device is anticipated for 2023 or later
A D-sensor that can be embedded in fitness bands or watches, is not expected before 2024.
A shoebox-size system that is designed for hospital settings, and is currently available for use.

Other companies currently working on non-invasive glucose monitors include NovioSense, LifePlus, Afon Technology, Apple, and Samsung.

Read more on Diabetes Patches for Continuous blood glucose monitoring HERE!

The bottom line

These are just a few of the numerous biotechnology companies and startups seeking to develop non-invasive glucose monitors. Over the last several decades, we have advanced from measuring glucose levels in urine to fingersticks and blood testing to CGM.

Check out the article on the Dexcom CGM G6!

Although much has changed, the need for body fluids to take blood glucose measurements has remained constant. Fortunately, technology is rapidly improving, and while we may not yet have the most reliable non-invasive glucose monitors on the market, the puzzle could be completed in the next couple of years.

1
2
3
4
…
8
Go to the next page