Best Blood Glucose Meter : Top 7 accurate monitors — Yogtreat
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The article below will answer in detail the question running into your mind “ Which is the best blood glucose meter”? But first, let’s quickly have an overview of diabetes as a disease.
Diabetes is a chronic disease affecting people all over the world. As per the latest report by CDC, approx. 10% of the USA population is suffering from diabetes, and these numbers are on the rise every year. Its common symptoms include Unintentional weight loss or gain, Frequent urination, increase in hunger or thirst, blur vision, etc. Once you have diagnosed this disease, it is time to consult a doctor and start its regular monitoring.
Hence, The sooner you detect it, the easier it will be to control.
{Diabetes is a common disease that can be controlled by regular practice of these yoga poses at home}
How to monitor Diabetes?
All you need is a handy device for regular monitoring of blood sugar levels at home. You must choose your blood sugar monitoring device carefully as faulty equipment may give incorrect readings. Further, these results may give you a different interpretation, leading to the wrong treatment.
So it becomes important to choose the right device after proper research, fulfilling all your needs. We have also covered what factors you need to take care of while choosing the best blood glucose monitor later in this article.
Firstly, let us quickly go through the list of the best blood glucose meter available online on Amazon. Each and every product has its pros and cons, that is described below in detail. You should only choose the product that suits your need (Features, cost, accuracy, ease of use, etc.)
{Do you know High Blood Pressure is one of the main causes of Type 2 diabetes. You can control your blood pressure by practice of these yoga poses}
7 Best Blood Glucose Meters
To simplify things for our readers, we filtered from dozens of blood glucometers available online and came up with the following top 7 best blood glucose meters. We are confident that at least one of these will suit your medical, financial, and personal needs.
{Diabetes patients should also keep a regular track of their blood pressure with these best Blood pressure Monitors}
1. AccuChek Aviva Plus Meter
Users consider the Accuchek Aviva Plus to be one of the most accurate blood glucose meter available in the market. All due to 150 system integrity checks that help to provide accurate and reliable results.
Further, this device uses the AccuChek Aviva Plus test strips (to be purchased separately), which fill up instantly with less blood (approx. 0.6 microlitres).
This feature makes it an excellent device in measuring the blood sugar level without requiring a large prick on the finger. Powered by a 3V Lithium Coin cell battery, it has a battery life of 1000 tests.
And lastly, this device gives instant results within 5 seconds and you can store up to 500 readings in it’s memory.
Pros
- Do not require any coding
- Built-in customizable 4 test reminders
- Accurate results with 150 system integrity checks
- The average level for 7, 14, 30, and 90 days
- Comes with carrying case and lancet device
Cons
- Do not come with strips (Need to purchase additionally)
- Only compatible with Accu chek Aviva Plus test strips
- Bit expensive compared to other glucometers.
Buy this product: AccuChek Aviva Plus Meter
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2. One Touch Ultra2 System
Simple operation and a wider display screen with larger numbers make it one of the most user friendly blood glucose monitor to operate.
Another feature of comparison between before and after meals blood glucose levels makes it stand out from the pile of other blood glucose meters. With this feature, users can also monitor the rise in their glucose levels after meals and insert meal flags to average out the readings later. Similarly, with the comment feature, you can easily interpret the results whenever there is a sudden crash or spike in the results.
All it takes is a couple of seconds (5 sec) to check your blood glucose accurately. In light of the user’s reviews, the lancing device it uses is comfortable compared to others. And finally, With a weight of approximately 42.5 gms, this glucometer is capable of storing up to 500 results in its internal memory.
Pros
- Results can be transferred to a computer using software and a Onetouch Interface cable.
- Come with a compact carrying case
- Before vs. after-meal glucose comparison
- Strips compatible with other glucometers from One Touch
- Displays message of Low Battery indicator, Exceptionally low and High glucose levels.
Cons
- The compatible test strips are very expensive
- Product is non-returnable
- The device requires manual coding to calibrate with the test strips
Buy this product: One Touch Ultra2 System
{Obesity or overweight also leads to Type 2 diabetes. Fortunately, yoga can help in weight loss and help you lead a healthy life}
3. FreeStyle Lite, Blood Glucose monitoring system
Next on our list of best blood glucose meters is the Freestyle Lite Blood glucose monitoring system. Being manufactured by one of the most trusted medical companies, Abbott Diabetes Care, It is a tiny device that is known for its simple and accurate testing. Simple due to the feature that it does not require any additional manual coding to operate and test the blood glucose levels.
Additionally, this device has got two patented technologies:
- Coulometric Technology helps to provide more accurate results, making it one of the most accurate blood glucose meters available in the market.
- Zipwik tabs: Helps to add more blood for up to 60 seconds window, which saves money and wastage in case of incorrect blood sample collection. And collecting blood with this technology is less painful as it requires a very tiny sample (0.3 microlitre) of blood for testing.
Further, with an ergonomic shape, tiny size, and a big display, it is also one of the best glucometers for travel.
Moreover, it also contains other features that are commonly available in other devices, such as internal memory storage of 400 readings, four reminder alarms, and results average of 7, 14, and 30 days.
Pros
- Less pain, as the sample size is very small- 0.3 microliter
- No coding required
- Better accuracy with its patent coulometric technology
Cons
- No test strips are included with the pack.
- To be purchased separately, that are expensive.
Buy it from here: Freestyle Lite, Blood Glucose Monitoring System
{Many pregnant women suffer from Gestational diabetes, so they also need to check their Blood glucose levels regularly. However, yoga during pregnancy is very beneficial for the expecting mothers}
4. Care Touch Blood Glucose Monitoring System
It comes among Amazon’s best blood Glucose monitors because of its affordable price and easy-to-use interface. This all-in-one pack is all you need to monitor your diabetes state at home.
The kit includes a casing cover, Care Touch monitor, lancet, 100 test strips, 3 Volt Lithium Battery, 30 gauge lancets (100 count), and a lancing device.
Moreover, various other features of this device include- results within 5 seconds with 0.5 microlitres of blood sample, Internal Memory storage of up to 300 readings, and averaging of 14-day blood glucose levels.
Many other features such as alternative site testing, automatic off feature to save battery and pre/post-meal flagging makes it overall one of the best glucose monitor system.
Pros
- Includes a Single touch strip ejection system that hygienically removes the used strip.
- No coding is required as the meter automatically recognizes batch codes encrypted on test strips.
- Includes free 100 Blood test strips
- The strips have a long expiration period
Cons
- Control solution not available with the kit and is not readily available to purchase online.
- Some users complained about poor customer support.
- Many users had an issue with inaccurate readings.
Buy it from here: Care Touch Diabetes Testing Kit
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5. Contour NEXT One Smart Blood Glucose monitoring system
This blood glucose monitor is the best starter device for aged diabetic patients because of its user-friendly interface and easy to operate procedure. Contour is a smart device that can be connected via Bluetooth, and you can access it on your phone via a free mobile app, making it one of the best glucose meter for iPhone and Android users.
Another appealing highlight is, It comes with a smartLIGHT feature that indicates results in a color-coded mechanism for quick interpretation.
- Green indicates results within the acceptable range.
- Yellow indicates results above the target range and
- And, Red color indicates the results below the acceptable range.
To add further to its features, It is one of the best blood glucose meter with the cheapest strips.
Pros
- Manufacturer claims accuracy of results within +/- 8.4% of lab values
- No coding avoids extra burden and saves time
- Bluetooth enabled with access via free app
- Color-coded results for quick interpretation
- Second chance sampling within 60 seconds to prevent wastage of strips
- A budget-friendly device
Cons
- Some users complained about issues in Bluetooth connectivity
- While others faced problems in mobile app usability.
Buy it from Here: Contour Next One Smart Meter
{ Surya Namaskar is one of the best yoga exercises to manage diabetes and remain healthy}
6. Prodigy Autocode Talking Blood Glucose Monitoring Kit
If you are looking for the best glucometer that works for aged people or visually impaired patients, well, look no further. Visually impaired patients can have a tough time reading their blood glucose results several times a day, but fortunately, this glucometer is here for the rescue.
This monitor can guide you through your results and read them aloud in four major languages: English, French, Spanish, or Arabic. Also called a talking blood glucose meter, this device can deliver results within 6 seconds and can store up to 450 readings in its memory.
Further, The device comes with a USB port that you can use to put your data into a computer for better data management.
Pros
- Audio reading in multiple languages (English, French, Spanish, or Arabic)
- Approved for alternate site testing (Forearm, Upper arm, Thigh, Calf, Hand, and fingers)
- Includes a USB port
- No coding required
Cons
- Very less battery life
- Many users complained about inaccurate results
Buy it from here: Prodigy Autocode Talking Blood Glucose Meter
{Also read 7 best Forehead Thermometers for adults and babies}
7. Glucocard Expression Meter Kit 1
If you are looking for the best automatic blood glucose meters, Glucocard Expression Meter Kit deserves this slot. It is if one of the most straightforward operating devices that we came across.
The auto-enabled and autocoded device comes high-reputed in the market and is quite affordable. Further, oversize picture icons and large tactile buttons make the meter easy to use.
The complete kit includes a meter with 10 test strips, 10 lancets, lancing device, and a control solution.
Other features of the device include internal memory storage of 300 readings, averaging results for 7, 14, and 30 days, and alternate site testing.
Pros
- Bilingual voice features for hearing a test result
- Tactile buttons and oversized display makes it user friendly
- Auto coded device
- Battery life of up to 1000 tests
Cons
The device comes with only 10 testing strips. You need to buy additional strips separately.
Buy it from here: Glucocard Expression Meter Kit
{Also read 10 best yoga books for beginners}
Why you need a Glucometer?
Daily blood glucose level checking is one of the essential components of every successful diabetes control regime. It helps you monitor your blood glucose levels and let you identify the patterns that may lead to a possible spike or crash in your glucose level.
Moreover, it helps you assess the impact of certain factors like exercise and stress on your blood sugar. Regular blood glucose testing also enables you to determine diabetic medication effectiveness, a prerequisite for effective diabetic therapy.
While the frequency and rhythm of blood glucose testing depend on your physician’s recommendation and your specific diagnosis, the choice of selecting the gadget-glucometer is in your hands.
{Also read: 10 Best Vitamin C serum for young and glowing face}
What makes a device ‘the best blood glucose meter’?
The best glucose meter is the one that gives you the most accurate results and fulfills all your requirements. The times when you had to visit the hospital to check up your blood glucose levels are long gone. Modern glucometers let you check your blood sugar from the comfort of your sofa.
Luckily there is a wide variety of devices available today that makes it hard to choose a device. From the simplest glucose devices to complex digital glucose monitors with tricked-out features, like Bluetooth capability, enable you to connect to your smartphone, allowing you to monitor your health better. To sum up, there is a device out there for every one of you that lets you self-manage your diabetes and avoid any long-term complications.
{Also read: Many yoga poses such as Mountain Pose (Tadasana), Diamond Pose (Vajrasana), and Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana) help you manage diabetes at home}
Following are the main features you have to check for when getting the best glucose meter:
Accuracy
The quality of the testing strips used in your glucometer and the device itself plays a vital role in determining its accuracy. Some meters are known for giving readings that are 10%-15% below or above the actual value. The Food and Drug Administration approves this minor technical variance within a range +/-20%, but check this main feature before any new purchase.
The lesser the variation, the more accurate is the device. I mean, who does not like accuracy? Right!!!
Ease of use
Most diabetic patients use glucometers multiple times a day. It makes it critically important for the users to pick the one with their preferred features and interface. Some users want devices with added features like Bluetooth and USB ports, while others prefer to keep them as simple as possible. Similarly, some users may look for audio features and some with color-coded results for quick interpretation. Every device available online is unique and loaded with different types of features.
So we recommend checking out the glucometer features thoroughly before adding the credit card details because crying over spilled milk does not make it un-spilled. Don’t you agree with that?
Cost and Insurance
There is a Glucose meter available online for a wide range of budget. The more functions a meter features, the expensive it gets. Hence, you should always keep an eye to buy the best glucometer with the cheapest strips.
Regarding insurance, always check with your insurance provider for coverage details. Some insurance companies limit coverage for certain models or limit the number of strips.
Data display
When using a glucometer, you probably will have to go through your readings multiple times a day. It requires the display of your device as per your need. Most of the users prefer wide LED screens with larger readouts and better contrast so that it does not strain their eyes.
Test Time
There comes a wide variety of devices in the market that gives results in 5–10 seconds. While measuring your blood glucose levels multiple times a day, it becomes important to get accurate results quickly. So filter the one with less or minimum testing time.
Manual or Automatic code
There are two types of blood glucose meters available in the market. One reads the code of strips automatically, and the other ones require manual coding in which you need to enter the code of testing strips manually in the device. Many newly launched devices come with automatic coding, but still, you should check this feature.
Blood Sample
You would not like the device that takes too much of your blood sample for every testing. Consequently, it will also cause too much pain to you.
Look for glucometers that take a little amount of blood for testing or less than a microlitre.
Strips Compatibility
Who doesn’t like the best glucose meter with the cheapest strips? But many companies sell the compatible strips at a very high price. Do check the compatibility features of strips before any new purchase. Most of the devices available online comes with included strips, while others come without strips that you need to purchase separately.
Other features
Look for other features as well based on your need such as Battery life, Size, Internal memory storage, weight, pre & post-meal blood glucose comparisons, smartphone connectivity, Control solution, Lancets, Lancing device, etc.
Conclusion
Finally, the best blood glucose monitor is the one that meets all your personal, financial, and medical needs. As per our assessment, please refer below to our recommendation for products.
Overall Best Blood Glucose meter: AccuChek Aviva Plus Meter
Best Blood Glucose meter for aged patients: Prodigy Autocode talking Blood Glucose monitor
And, Best Blood Glucose meter for Home use and travel: Freestyle lite Blood glucose monitoring kit
Most accurate blood glucose meter: Contour NextOne Smart blood glucose monitor
We have done thorough research as we understand how important it is for one to make the right decision in case of choosing the best medical devices. We hope that our article will help you choose yours.
FAQ’s
1. How to use a Glucometer?
Prick your finger with the help of a lancing device and collect that blood sample on lancet strips. Now insert the strip into the glucometer, press the button and wait for 5–10 seconds to get the reading on the glucometer screen.
2. Can I reuse test strips and lancet ?
No, you cannot reuse test strips and lancet. All the medical bodies strongly recommend for use of new strips and lancets as used strips and devices may cause infections or other health problems.
3. How often should I check the blood glucose levels?
It entirely depends on the severity of the diseases and your health condition. Consult with your doctor and follow his/her advice to know the frequency of checking your blood glucose.
4. What is the normal blood sugar levels of a healthy person?
Normal blood sugar levels for an adult of age 20+:
Fasting: < 100mg/dL
Before Meals: 70–130mg/dL
After Meals: < 180mg/dL
Bed Time: 100–140mg/dL
For a pregnant women:
Fasting and before meals: < 95mg/dL
2 hours after the meal:< 120mg/dL
Reference:
Originally published at https://yogtreat.com on December 13, 2020.
