Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) are truly game changers in managing blood sugar levels. CGMs offer real-time insights (you get to monitor your blood glucose levels on your smart phone in real time via a free app) and so foster proactive health decisions. At ProLongevity, we integrate CGMs into our personalised “precision nutrition” approach, ensuring that each client receives completely tailored guidance based on their unique glucose patterns. Whether you’re looking for the best continuous glucose monitor for weight loss, wondering how to use a CGM for metabolic health, or searching for a CGM for non-diabetics, this guide aims to answer all your questions.
What is a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM)?
A CGM is a wearable device that continuously tracks glucose levels in the interstitial fluid. This is the fluid between the cells but beneath your skin. CGMs provide real-time data throughout the day and night. Unlike traditional fingerstick methods that offer single-time readings, CGMs deliver a dynamic overview of glucose trends, allowing users to monitor fluctuations and make informed decisions about their health. Generally speaking, optimising health is a long-term project, not a one-night stand!
📺 Watch our YouTube Shorts on how CGMs work and much else besides!
https://www.youtube.com/@ProLongevity/shorts
How does a CGM work?
A typical CGM system comprises three main components:
- Sensor: A small electrode inserted under the skin to measure glucose levels.
- Transmitter: Attached to the sensor, it sends glucose data to a receiver or smartphone.
- Receiver or Smartphone App: Displays real-time glucose readings and trends.
The sensor detects glucose in the interstitial fluid, and the transmitter relays this information to the receiver or app, updating frequently to provide continuous monitoring. In the case of the Libre sensor (one of our preferred devices) the sensor and the transmitter are both contained within the one device. The CGM can then be monitored on your smartphone via a free app. It’s very simple to share your real-time data with us so we can monitor and advise, as we explain here:
🔎 Learn more about how ProLongevity integrates CGM data 📺 See our TikTok explaining CGMs
How to Install a CGM Sensor
For those new to CGMs, proper installation is key to getting accurate readings and avoiding discomfort. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Choose a placement: The best location is usually the back of your non-dominant arm.
- Position your arm properly: Place your arm behind your head for stability.
- Press the applicator: Apply steady pressure until you hear a click.
- Secure the adhesive: Make sure the sensor is firmly attached to avoid displacement.
- Remove the applicator carefully: Ensure the sensor stays in place.
📺 Watch our YouTube guide to CGM installation
What are the benefits of using a CGM?
CGMs offer numerous advantages, including:
- Real-Time Monitoring: Continuous data on glucose levels, enabling timely interventions.
- Trend Analysis: Insights into how lifestyle factors like food, exercise, and stress affect glucose levels.
- Alerts: Customisable alarms for high or low glucose levels, enhancing safety.
- Data Sharing: Ability to share data with healthcare providers, including the ProLongevity team, for collaborative management.
- Personalised Nutrition Plans: Helps tailor diet and lifestyle choices based on real-time data, what we call Precision Nutrition.
📖 Discover how ProLongevity uses CGMs for metabolic health
Are there any drawbacks to using a CGM?
While CGMs are incredibly beneficial, there are some potential drawbacks, such as:
- Cost: Depending on healthcare coverage, CGMs can be expensive.
- Calibration Needs: Some models require periodic calibration with fingerstick tests.
- Skin Irritation: Possible discomfort or irritation at the sensor insertion site.
- Data Overload: The abundance of data can be overwhelming for some users making them needlessly anxious. ProLongevity, with our reassuring professional advice to the rescue?
At ProLongevity, we help clients navigate every one of these challenges by offering personalised support and precision nutrition advice tailored to their CGM data.
📺 Watch some of our CGM success stories on YouTube
Can CGMs help with weight management?
100% Yes! If you’re searching for the best continuous glucose monitor for weight loss, a CGM can be a powerful tool by:
- Identifying Blood Sugar Spikes: Highlighting foods that cause significant glucose increases, which can influence hunger and fat storage.
- Optimising Meal Timing: Providing insights into how meal timing affects glucose levels and energy balance.
- Personalised Nutrition: Allowing for tailored dietary choices based on individual glucose responses.
📖 Want to lose weight? Stop counting calories
Are CGMs suitable for non-diabetic individuals?
Absolutely! CGMs were originally designed for diabetics, but non-diabetic users are now increasingly benefiting from them, including:
- Fitness enthusiasts: Track how different foods and workouts impact glucose.
- People managing their weight: Identify glucose spikes that contribute to cravings.
- Those interested in preventive health: Monitor long-term glucose stability.
- Athletes and active individuals: Optimise energy levels for performance.
By monitoring real-time glucose responses, you can optimise health, energy levels, and longevity. Why wait until you are diabetic or pre-diabetic? Prevention is always better than cure.
📺 How non-diabetics can benefit from CGMs
What are the different types of CGMs available?
There are various CGM systems on the market, each with unique features:
- Real-Time CGMs: Provide continuous glucose readings and alerts for high or low levels.
- Flash Glucose Monitors: Require the user to scan the sensor to obtain glucose readings.
- Implantable CGMs: Sensors implanted under the skin that can last several months.
We have extensive experience in working with hundreds of clients and interpreting thousands of CGM results. We’re happy to work with any device or help you choose the right one for you.
📅 Book a consultation to find the right CGM for you
Final Thoughts
Continuous Glucose Monitoring is a powerful tool for optimising health, weight, and longevity. Whether you’re searching for the best CGM comparison UK, looking for the best CGM for non-diabetics, or seeking the best continuous glucose monitor for weight loss, ProLongevity provides a fully personalised precision nutrition service to help you achieve real, lasting metabolic health improvements.
🚀 Ready to take control of your health? Book your free consultation now