When it comes to testing blood sugar levels, it’s a simple, yet important process that needs to occur on a regular basis. This test is set to determine if your blood sugar levels are too low or too high for proper bodily functions and will alert you when a change in a daily diet needs to occur. For instance, if glucose levels are too low, then a quick fix such as a cup of fruit juice or a regular soft drink may be needed.
More often than not, individuals who are diagnosed with diabetes are in the greatest need of testing their blood glucose levels. Since diabetics run the risk of having unpredictable, unstable glucose levels, knowing how to check blood sugar levels at home is incredibly important. So, let’s explore what’s needed, how to go about the process, and when it’s best to test yourself.
What Tools Do We Need?
In order for accurate and effective glucose testing to take place, these tools are needed. These tools are especially helpful at home or on the road because they are all small and portable.
· Glucose Meter
· Pen Needles
· Skin Lotion
· Lancing Device
· Alcohol Prep Pads
· Control Solution
· Lancets
· Glucose Recovery Supplements
This is How We Check Blood Sugar Levels
In this step by step process, this is the best and most efficient way to always test your blood sugar levels.
1. Wash your hands to rid them of any potential germs or bacteria. Insert a glucose test strip into the meter to read results.
2. Use the lancing device in order to prick your finger and retrieve a drop of blood.
3. Once a drop of blood is present, hold the test strip to it in order to obtain results.
4. Within seconds, your blood glucose level will appear on the meter’s display.
These same steps can be used no matter what brand of glucose meter or testing strips you purchase to conduct your routine testing. If there does happen to be a slight difference in the procedure, be sure to reference the user’s manual that accompanies your products.
When Do You Test if Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes?
Different types and stages of diabetes will dictate that people should test their glucose levels at different times and frequencies. The below suggestions are more commonly used, but be sure to consult a medical professional for their final recommendations regarding your specific health condition.
Looking at Type 1 Diabetes in particular, testing may need to occur anywhere between 4 to 10 times per day. These are times of day that tests are most likely needed:
· Before any meal
· Before and after exercise
· Before bed
· During the night
· More often when sick
· More often when a daily routine has been changed
· More often if there’s a change in medication
What About Type 2 Diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes is most often a milder condition than Type 1 Diabetes. If there are normal insulin injections every day, then these individuals will most likely have to test their glucose levels multiple times per day. Testing is also recommended at the same times as listed above, but there may be a lower frequency needed. For example, if there are several insulin injections per day, then glucose testing may only need to occur before a meal and in the evening before bed.
If this type of diabetes is managed with the proper diet, medications, and exercise, then there may be no need to conduct daily glucose tests. However, the need for testing must be confirmed by a medical expert as each person’s scenario is unique.
Do you think your body is at risk and needs daily glucose testing?
Partner with a medical professional today, and let us know your experience!