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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.

The Latest in Diabetic Watches

Nowadays, diabetic watches (also known as glucose watches) are designed to be worn on the wrist just like a wristwatch. This is a non-invasive procedure where the monitor checks the level of blood glucose by inducing a painless electric shock that draws interstitial fluids from the skin pores in order for them to obtain the blood glucose level.

Besides being painless, and it has no side effects, the devices can be used at any time of day and as regularly as you wish. The monitor records the readings and it can also be set to alarm in case the readings are too low or too high. Diabetic watches have made it quite easy to track changes throughout the day.

Tips for purchasing Diabetic Watches

1. Result speed We are living in a fast-paced society where we want everything to be instant. Therefore, it is vital to purchase a diabetic watch band that guarantees instant results. Most glucose monitoring systems take less than 15 seconds to display the results.

2. Ease of use The display should be large enough in order for results to be clearly displayed and avoid reading errors. This is very helpful, especially for people who have poor eyesight. Keep in mind, that too many buttons or features could turn out to be overwhelming especially for the elderly.

3. Memory In case you want to store the history of your blood sugar readings your diabetes monitoring device must have a memory function. Some glucose monitoring systems also have data ports. This allows diabetes patients to download their historical blood sugar readings to their personal computers for detailed analysis.

4. Batteries Check the charging life of the batteries and the type of batteries required. Some monitors use batteries that are readily available in most stores whereas others use batteries that are only available in specific places.

Diabetic watches and the companies that manufacture them.

1. GlucoTrack This device was developed by Integrity Application and it uses three main technologies: conductivity, heat capacity, and ultrasonic. The device comprises a transmitter, main unit, processor, receiver, and an ear clip that contains sensors.

GlucoTrack DF-F model received CE-Mark approval in June 2013 and the Integrity application can sell this device in all the 28 European member states. Integrity Application hopes to submit GlucoTrack DF-F to regulators in the USA as soon as possible. Also, the company plans to conduct various clinical studies in the USA in the second half of 2014.

2. Symphony Symphony was developed by Echo-Therapeutics and it is a biochemical sensor-based trans-dermal continuous monitoring system that reads and interprets the glucose level measurements.

3. Multi-sensor glucose monitoring system This system was developed by researchers at Solianis Monitoring and it delivers continuous data on blood glucose variations using the OpticalBridge technology.

4. LighTouch Technology This device uses a technology that projects a spectrum of light into the patient’s finger. The device analyzes the colored light that is re-projected from the finger in order to measure the blood glucose level. Although Glucowatch was approved for use in the USA by the FDA in August 2002, this decision was reversed in 2007.

Non-invasive glucose monitoring means that it is not necessary to prick your skin in order to get blood samples. Besides eliminating the pain completely, it is a simple way to avoid the formation of scar tissue. A diabetic watch is a great accessory especially when it comes to taking proper care of diabetes patients. These gadgets and accessories are vital when it comes to

safe monitoring,
tracking,
management of diabetes in order to ensure that other medical problems and complications do not arise.

If left untreated, diabetes can easily cause grave medical complications.

Can diabetes really be reversed?

Here at Diabetes Healthy Solutions, we are monitoring the advancements in technology closely, with regard to Diabetic Watches so visit us regularly for further updates.

The Latest in Diabetic Watches 2022

Proper management of diabetes entails keeping track of your blood sugar levels. Diabetic watches offer a reliable way of tracking your blood glucose levels in real time. These watches also allow you to keep an eye on other aspects of your health, including your diet and physical aspects such as exercise and blood pressure which are also important to managing diabetes and other conditions.

More useful diabetes control tips here!

Why is it so difficult to monitor blood glucose non-invasively?

The process of keeping track of blood glucose traditionally involves using sensors implanted under the skin or drawing blood to take measurements in real-time. Companies are looking for solutions to these elements and taking the invasive component out of the equation.

These solutions mainly revolve around optical-based methods that are already being used for measuring body temperature, blood oxygen, and heart rate. According to Jake Leach, Dexcom’s chief technology officer, the company is currently working on the 8^th generation of its non-invasive device and he reports that the main challenge of measuring blood glucose noninvasively is being able to do it accurately and reliably.

How are big companies trying to make non-invasive blood glucose monitoring possible?

Products currently available on the market show that big players making fitness trackers and smartwatches have been trying to solve the problem of providing glucose monitoring non-invasively from the wrist. Although some companies have been more open about their goals than others to make it a reality, there has been plenty of speculation about others that they have been putting a lot of research hours into this.

Apple

Apple is obviously one of the biggest players in the game and it was definitely interested in blood glucose monitoring even before the popular Apple Watch was a thing. It is rumored that Apple CEO Tim Cook was testing out a CGM (continuous glucose monitoring) device even before the release of the Series 3 Apple Watch.

In 2018, Apple won a patent for non-invasive glucose monitoring that uses light-based optical monitors that measures a particular substance in blood and monitors its changes in a bid to determine blood glucose levels.

Recently, there has been speculation that Apple is working on a watch that can track glucose levels and that the company was testing the “stability and reliability” of its functionality before it’s launched. Apple has also secured a deal with Rockley Photonics, a UK startup that develops optical based sensors focused towards delivering blood glucose data.

Samsung

Samsung, one of Apple’s biggest rivals wants in on the treasure hunt too. It has already managed to provide blood pressure monitoring and ECG data. There’s also speculation that a Samsung watch that keeps track of blood glucose is in the works. Apparently, Apple is collaborating with MIT to develop glucose monitoring support on its wearable devices.

Alphabet

Alphabet and Verily have secured a joint venture with Dexcom to develop a CGM (continuous glucose monitoring) sensor. An update on the partnership shows that they are developing a device embodied in their G7 product. However, the product has not been launched commercially. According to Leach, their collaboration is largely about making their wearables smaller so that they are more comfortable and more convenient to wear. This relationship has yielded some electronics that have allowed them to miniaturize even further with the G7 which is up to 60% smaller, a huge advancement in innovation.

Fitbit

Before being acquired by Google, Fitbit was already exploring the possibility of keeping track of blood glucose levels from its devices. The company collaborated with One Drop to help incorporate diabetes management into Fitbit smartwatches. Moreover, a united Healthcare partnership was created, which saw participants given a Dexcom and Fitbit monitor to determine how their diabetes was impacted by activity.

One of Fitbit’s biggest investments in diabetes was a $6 million stake in Sano, a company that is working on a coin-sized, painless patch that tracks your glucose levels. The patch works by reading the interstitial fluid under the skin and is hence painless when getting a reading.

The bottom line

Diabetic watches are both useful and fun and have a wide range of features that some people would never think of. Some smartwatches may even allow users to reply to texts and emails or even answer calls in some cases.

Keeping track of your blood sugar levels doesn’t have to be scary and stressful. Also, there’s no need to settle for bulky and cumbersome watches. Diabetic watches come in a wide variety of prices, models, and styles. Each diabetic watch comes with different features and discovering the best fit for you is not hard considering all the great choices available on the market as well as the prospects for future devices.

More on the Non Invasive Glucose Meters HERE!

The Bloodless Glucose Meter

If you are a diabetic and sick and tired of sore fingers and the pain associated with sticking your fingers every time you need to check your blood sugar, the ‘up and coming’ bloodless glucose meter may be just what you need! These sought after meters will very soon be available, in styles like the glucowatch, which is designed to be worn on the wrist.

How Does the Bloodless Glucose Meter Work?

These particular meters work by drawing interstitial fluid through the sweat glands in the skin by using a small electric current. This electric current is so small that the only real discomfort associated with using the device is some possible irritation caused by wearing the device around the wrist or arm, and this is usually no more uncomfortable than wearing a large watch or MP3 player. The bloodless glucose monitor lives up to its name in that it is completely pain-free for most users and represents the newest and best in glucose monitoring technology.

The meters of today are useful tools when it comes to tracking and trending blood glucose levels, especially over a long period of time such as twelve hours. By using the bloodless glucose meter you can have a reading every 20 minutes for up to a 12 hour period and as many as four thousand readings can be stored in memory and viewed at the touch of a button. The bloodless glucose meter can also be set to alert you if your blood sugar gets too high or too low.

Azurite: Developing the Bloodless Glucose Meter

Azurite is a biotech company that is based in San Francisco and was co-founded by Laura Andrews and Kelly Zebrowski. The main aim of this biotech company is to build a non invasive, (or bloodless glucose monitor).

A New approach to Non Invasive Glucose Testing.

Although this goal is quite familiar, Azurite has taken a different and unique approach where the blood glucose level will be measured through an EM (electromagnetic) sensing system. Therefore, the idea is mainly based on the fact that electromagnetic signals bounce off surfaces and return to the source with a pattern that reflects the surface they have encountered.

Just like any other molecules, glucose molecules reflect unique electromagnetic signals based on their electrical properties. Therefore, Azurite also hopes to bounce electromagnetic signals off the glucose molecules in your blood which will return to the device for an interpretation of how much glucose they have encountered.

There are various research groups that have ascertained the blood glucose level successfully by simply observing electrical properties of blood glucose. Moreover, researchers from the University of Missisipi have demonstrated that a micro-strip patch antenna can help determine the blood glucose levels by measuring the electrical properties of the sample. Azurite has drawn from this research and works of other research groups that have examined electrical properties of blood glucose.

Azurite has modeled a fresh approach that will hopefully lead to a non invasive glucose monitoring device that uses electromagnetic technology to measure electrical properties remotely. Moreover the company is determined to make an impact on diabetics by creating a device that combines convenience and the rich data of accurate continuous testing.

Newest Technologies for Bloodless Glucose Meter

Although there are various technologies being used to develop non invasive testing devices including florescent technology, electromagnetic sensing, mid-infrared spectroscopy and ultrasound technology among other technologies, not all have received FDA approval yet. However, the GlucoTrack has already received the CE Mark approval for use in the EU (European Union).

This type of technology is brand new, but definitely does have a secure place in the proper management of diabetes.

Read on here for more info on the bloodless glucose meter.

The Non Invasive Glucose Meter

Post updated: 20th May 2023

Besides the inconveniences associated with being diabetic, such as monitoring what and when you eat, the greatest inconvenience is constantly monitoring the blood sugar level.

Nobody enjoys pulling out their meter consistently and having to prick their skin constantly in order to take a blood sample!

However, the development of the non-invasive glucose meter is changing all that. This means that you don’t have to stick your skin in order to get a blood sample. This is highly beneficial, especially from a pain viewpoint, and also because constantly sticking leads to the formation of scar tissue on your fingers. This makes it more difficult to get a blood sample and it requires sticking your finger deeper and harder.

This exciting development in diabetes technology will soon be available, in styles like the glucowatch, which is designed to be worn on the wrist. These meters work by drawing interstitial fluid through the sweat glands in the skin by using a small electric current.

This electric current is so small that the only real discomfort associated with using the device is some possible irritation caused by wearing the device around the wrist or arm, and this is usually no more uncomfortable than wearing a large watch or MP3 player.

There are loads of ADVANTAGES when it comes to the Non Invasive Glucose Meter

1. Ear clip:

Whether the device measures your blood glucose level using ultrasound or spectroscopy (light technology), the device will clip on your ear as you take the measurements.

2. Data storage

Every patient wants to see and categorize progress; therefore, devices such as the GlucoTrack can store thousands of readings and you can look at any particular range of dates.

3. Small and portable:

A non-invasive glucose meter is portable, small, cute, and handheld. The compact design of these devices offers a high level of privacy and diabetics can live discreetly.

4. A fast read:

The devices boost convenience because you will get accurate readings of your blood sugar level in less than 10 seconds. Therefore, these devices provide a fast, highly discrete, and simple testing experience. Moreover, testing can be done anywhere and at any time and the data sent securely to your tablet or Smartphone.

5. Living smart:

The non-invasive glucose meter such as the Glucowise uses smart cloud technology and applications that deliver personalized alerts and advice helping you to manage your condition fully.

For instance, intelligent analytics uses your historical and current data to forecast trends in the blood glucose level. This enables you to adjust your food and medication intake according to how you are feeling and your activities.!

6. Living affordably:

With a no-stick glucose meter, you can test your blood glucose level as often as you want without worrying about the pain or cost.

7. Living safely:

Besides being highly reliable, a non-invasive glucose meter offers high standards for accuracy and you can easily avoid sudden and dangerous hypoglycemic events.

By using this type of glucose meter you can have a blood glucose reading every 20 minutes for up to a 12-hour period and as many as four thousand readings can be stored in memory and viewed at the touch of a button. These types of glucose meters can also be set to alert you if your blood sugar gets too high or too low.

Read about the Dexcom G6 CGM HERE!

Latest Developments on the Non-Invasive Glucose Meter.

This type of technology is brand new, and while there have been quite a few different styles and prototypes developed, none are FDA approved as yet, but that should change in the not-too-distant future! Imagine…no more constant finger pricks, leaving us all with sore and swollen fingers – we’ll keep you posted as to when we can expect the non-invasive glucose meter to be available commercially just follow this link for more info.

The Continuous Blood Glucose Monitor

The continuous blood glucose monitor is a bit of new technology that may someday revolutionize the treatment and monitoring of those with blood glucose abnormalities brought about by the metabolic diseases known as diabetes. For anyone with diabetes the key to keeping the disease under control and the effects and symptoms in check is to maintain a blood glucose level that is as close to normal as possible, for as much of the time as possible. In some diabetics maintaining proper blood glucose levels may be no trouble at all, and in others blood glucose levels can fluctuate very rapidly. It is in those with rapid swings in blood glucose levels, or particularly hard to maintain blood glucose levels that the continuous blood glucose monitor really comes into its own.

The continuous blood glucose monitor of today, such as the glucowatch, is usually worn on the wrist like a wristwatch. The monitor checks blood glucose levels by administering a painless electric shock which draws interstitial fluid from the pores and this is read by the monitor to obtain a blood glucose level. This testing can be done with no pain or other side effects as often as every 20 minutes and the readings are recorded by the monitor, which can also be set to alarm if readings are too high or too low. With this kind of continuous sampling tracking and trending changes in blood glucose levels throughout the day is relatively easy.

While the present generation continuous blood glucose monitor cannot replace the finger stick blood glucose reading for spot on accuracy and dependability and should not be relied on as the only source of blood glucose level data, companies such as Abbott and Medtronic are diligently working on improving the technology. One day soon, the diabetic will be able to simply strap on their continuous blood glucose monitor and never have to suffer through another irritating finger stick to keep track of their blood glucose level.