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Blood glucose meter: How to choose
Advances in meters
Finger pokes are still the best way to check blood sugar. But research has led to new products designed to make the process less painful. Ask your healthcare professional about these choices.
| Device | How it works | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Alternative site monitor | Lets you take blood from areas that may hurt less than your finger, such as your arm, the palm of your hand or your thigh | Not as exact as fingertip samples when blood sugar level rises or falls quickly |
| Continuous glucose monitor (CGM) | Uses a sensor under the skin to measure blood sugar; sends each reading to your smartphone, smartwatch or other small device; alerts you when blood sugar levels are too low or too high | Expensive; sensor replacement needed every 10 to 15 days, depending on the brand; rarely, regular meter still needed to confirm results and to set up the device |
If you're still not sure which blood glucose meter to get after looking at the costs, features and other factors, ask your healthcare professional or diabetes educator for advice.
