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Hi, I have been diagnosed as being prediabetic with an HbA1c score of 46. This has gone up from 43 which was taken just over a year ago. I am now totally on board with changing to low carb diet and am increasing walking exercise and aiming to lose weight (have already made a start having lost 9lb this past month). I'm just not sure which test to use - I've looked at the different ones available and can't see the wood for the trees - the one I've had seems to be an average of the last three months but I've seen other people on this form referring to tests they do before and after meals. Not sure which way to go with testing. I just want to take control of testing to monitor progress and tell me if I'm on the right track. Any advice would be gratefully received. Thank you.
The HbA1c is the test which records the average for the last 3 months, from a blood sample taken. The daily tests are the finger prick tests, which measure the actual glucose level at the point of pricking. So this is the testing you need to do if you want to see which foods affect you, and monitor progress. You take a test immediately before eating, then 2 hours after first bite. I'm sure someone will suggest the best current monitor to purchase and give you more comprehensive advice. I tested religiously for a couple of weeks until I worked out what foods did or did not affect me, and now just test for new foods. Once your finger pricks indicate you are maintaining acceptable levels, you may wish to give your fingers a rest and rely on the HbA1c.
The HbA1c is the test which records the average for the last 3 months, from a blood sample taken. The daily tests are the finger prick tests, which measure the actual glucose level at the point of pricking. So this is the testing you need to do if you want to see which foods affect you, and monitor progress. You take a test immediately before eating, then 2 hours after first bite. I'm sure someone will suggest the best current monitor to purchase and give you more comprehensive advice. I tested religiously for a couple of weeks until I worked out what foods did or did not affect me, and now just test for new foods. Once your finger pricks indicate you are maintaining acceptable levels, you may wish to give your fingers a rest and rely on the HbA1c.
@Jan21 when comparing meters, bear in mind that the biggest expensive is the test strips and they all have to comply with the same standard with regard to accuracy.
Hopefully, someone who purchases their own meter and strips will be along soon with some recommendations. I believe there are two which most people buy but I forget the details (sorry).
@Jan21 when comparing meters, bear in mind that the biggest expensive is the test strips and they all have to comply with the same standard with regard to accuracy.
Hopefully, someone who purchases their own meter and strips will be along soon with some recommendations. I believe there are two which most people buy but I forget the details (sorry).
Thank you, and yes, I would appreciate some advice on which to purchase, take your point about the cost of test strips. I'd be interested to know which two meters are the most popular and presumably the test kit gives you a range for what you should be aiming for on retest after eating?
Hello and welcome. I use a TEE2+ tester from Spirit Healthcare, you can check out their website here www.spirit-healthcare.co.uk or give them a call on 0800 881 5423.
Just out of interest I got mine from my Diabetes nurse on prescription along with the test strips and lancets so it cost me nothing and everything is on repeat prescription.
Hello and welcome. I use a TEE2+ tester from Spirit Healthcare, you can check out their website here www.spirit-healthcare.co.uk or give them a call on 0800 881 5423.
Just out of interest I got mine from my Diabetes nurse on prescription along with the test strips and lancets so it cost me nothing and everything is on repeat prescription.
Knowing your blood sugar levels helps you manage your diabetes and reduces your risk of having serious complications – now and in the future. On this page:
www.diabetes.org.uk
We've got a few glucose monitors that are popular on the site and worth having a look at SD Gluco Navii or the Spirit Tee2 - test strips for both are about £8 for 50.
Knowing your blood sugar levels helps you manage your diabetes and reduces your risk of having serious complications – now and in the future. On this page:
www.diabetes.org.uk
We've got a few glucose monitors that are popular on the site and worth having a look at SD Gluco Navii or the Spirit Tee2 - test strips for both are about £8 for 50.