Managing Diabetes: Important Blood Sugar Testing Tips for Diabetics by 30Seconds Health
Diabetes is a chronic health condition that causes elevated blood sugar levels in the body. According to figures from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 38 million people in the U.S. have diabetes, which is almost 10 percent of the population. Of those affected, almost 95 percent have type 2 diabetes.
Most diabetics need to regularly check their blood sugar levels to ensure they are within a healthy range and to monitor how their bodies may be responding to medications or other factors that could cause complications. In doing so, diabetics can better manage their condition and prevent any complications that may arise.
As it is a crucial part of diabetes self-management, blood sugar testing should be carried out carefully and correctly. Here are some tips to help people with diabetes perform these regular checks with confidence and precision.
Where to Test
When testing their blood sugar levels, many people will test their fingertips. Instead, opting for a spot with fewer nerve endings may be more comfortable. Rather than the pad of their finger, a better option for testing for some people is along the edges of the hands when the palms have been pressed flat together.
This method may offer a less painful approach to testing, making the process of blood sugar monitoring a far more pleasant experience. If you would like to save money each month on test strips, you may benefit from a Contour Choice card. You can learn more information about this by clicking on their link.
Washing Hands
Washing your hands before testing your blood sugar levels will yield the most optimal results, as failure to take this step may contaminate the test results, leading to a skewed reading. To avoid such a scenario, make sure to wash your hands with soap and warm water before each test. This may ensure any contaminants that could interfere with your results have been cleaned from your hands.
The importance of this step has been highlighted in a 2011 study published by the American Diabetes Association (ADA). According to the results of this study, there was a difference of more than 10 percent in blood sugar levels between the first and second drops of blood from participants who tested themselves with unwashed hands.
The differential was even greater when the participants had touched fruit, as traces of fruit sugars can be left on the fingertips after peeling. In addition to hand washing, it is important to avoid licking your fingers when handling test strips as food residues from your mouth can also interfere with the reading.
When to Test
Being aware of the best times to test your blood sugar levels can produce more accurate test results. While many people with diabetes test their blood around 30 to 60 minutes after eating a meal or snacking, it is advisable to wait a little longer. This is because testing so soon after eating can produce a reading with overly high blood sugar levels.
For optimal results, fasting blood sugar levels should be checked by testing before each meal and waiting two hours after a meal.
By following this guidance, individuals with diabetes may be able improve the accuracy of their readings and positively influence their diabetes self-management practices.
Note: The content on 30Seconds.com is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice. The information on this site should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, and is not a substitute for professional care. Always consult your personal healthcare provider. The opinions or views expressed on 30Seconds.com do not necessarily represent those of 30Seconds or any of its employees, corporate partners or affiliates.
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