Dec. 12, 2023 — Wearable technology has revolutionized the way consumers access information. From rings and watches to wristbands, patches, and clothing, complex calculations are now available with a simple flick of the wrist or a glance at a smartphone screen.
One of the most recent wearable devices to gain popularity is the continuous glucose monitor (CGM). Approved by the FDA for use in diabetes, these devices have captured the attention of millions of consumers, thanks to social media influencers and promises of improved athletic performance, weight loss, and metabolic health.
Before joining the trend and purchasing a CGM, it’s important to note that diabetes experts have expressed concerns about their readiness for the general public. According to Tamara Oser, MD, director of the primary care diabetes lab at the University of Colorado Anschutz School of Medicine in Aurora, history has shown that following a trend without strong evidence can lead to unwanted outcomes.
Despite their rising popularity, Oser emphasizes the need for strong evidence to support their potential impact on outcomes.
Blood sugar spikes after meals are a normal process, especially for individuals with diabetes. Monitoring devices are used to identify patterns and deviations from the norm. However, it’s important to interpret the data correctly and avoid making incomplete generalizations.
Danielle Omar, a registered dietitian and nutrition consultant, also warns against inappropriate generalizations when interpreting the data. There are many factors that contribute to blood sugar spikes, and using the information inappropriately can be misleading.
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