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Blood glucose meter: How to choose
Advances in monitoring tools
Although finger pokes remain the gold standard for blood sugar monitoring, researchers have developed products designed to take the pain out of the process and continue to develop new products. Ask your healthcare provider about these alternatives.
| Device | How it works | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Alternative site monitor | Allows blood samples to be taken from areas likely to be less painful than your finger, such as your arm, the palm of your hand or your thigh | Not as accurate as fingertip samples when blood sugar level is rising or falling quickly |
| Continuous glucose monitor | Uses a sensor placed under the skin to measure blood sugar level; transmits each reading to a smartphone, smartwatch or small recording device worn on your body; gives an alert when blood sugar levels are too low or too high | Expensive; requires sensor to be replaced every 7 to 14 days, depending on the brand; may need to check blood sugar level with a traditional monitor to confirm readings and to program the device |
If you've looked at the costs, features and other considerations and are still unsure which blood glucose meter to buy, ask your doctor or certified diabetes care and education specialist for a recommendation.
