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Monitoring blood sugar levels is a crucial part of managing type 2 diabetes. Regular checks help individuals understand how their body responds to food, activity, and medication. This knowledge enables better control and reduces the risk of complications.
Why Monitoring Blood Sugar Matters
Keeping track of blood glucose levels helps identify patterns and triggers that affect blood sugar. It allows for timely adjustments to diet, exercise, or medication. Consistent monitoring can prevent both high (hyperglycemia) and low (hypoglycemia) blood sugar episodes.
Methods of Monitoring
There are two primary methods for monitoring blood sugar:
- Fingerstick testing: Using a glucometer to check blood sugar levels at specific times.
- Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM): Devices that provide real-time glucose readings throughout the day.
Tips for Effective Monitoring
To get accurate and useful information:
- Test at consistent times each day.
- Keep a record of your readings, including date and time.
- Share your data with your healthcare provider regularly.
- Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions on target blood sugar levels.