Testing kits

[Deniweni]

Hi all. I’m a diagnosed pre diabetic on the cusp. I have a True Metrix blood sugar monitoring kit for home use. Are the readings correct? And how often would i expect a GP update fir my health.
Thanks. Denise.

 

[Inka]

Welcome, Denise 🙂 Blood glucose test meters have a margin of error of around 15% @Deniweni Can you tell us a little more about your pre-diabetes diagnosis and your readings?

 

[Deniweni]

Hi. Yes. I was 6.7 at first after a routine blood test through go. Was booked on the diabetic plan through NHS After three months of careful eating I went down to 4.7. I don’t test myself very often it did this morning and it read 7.6. Lapsed a bit over Christmas with diet but in track again

 

[Inka]

If you’re concerned about things creeping upwards, you could ask for a/another HbA1C to see how things are going.

Was your 6.7 a fasting blood test? An HbA1C would give a number like 42 for example.

 

[Deniweni]

Ok thank you. It’s just a maternal aunt has diabetes. Misdiagnosed I might add. And she had diabetic ulcers so has had three toes removed. A wake up call.

 

[Inka]

Ok thank you. It’s just a maternal aunt has diabetes. Misdiagnosed I might add. And she had diabetic ulcers so has had three toes removed. A wake up call.

You’re wise to be cautious @Deniweni Sorry to hear about your aunt.

An HbA1C is a good idea, but also, if you have your meter now you can try a few before and after meal tests just to give you an idea of how your body is coping with carbs. Test just before you eat and test again 2 hours after the start of your meal eg lunch at 12.30pm test before eating and test again at 2.30pm.

You can also do things to help your insulin sensitivity eg get/stay within your ideal weight range, take exercise every day. Exercise doesn’t have to mean the gym. A good walk every day is fine. It all helps.

 

[Deniweni]

Thank you.

 

[trophywench]

What's a gym? Last time I was in one was 40 years ago.

A good vacuum of the hall stairs and landing also counts!