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The Updated Way of Managing My Diabetes
Diabetes, Healthcare Team and Me
By Ken Tait, diabetes advocate who lives with type 2 diabetes
Disclaimer: The information provided is not intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your healthcare professional about your diabetes management. Individual symptoms, situations and circumstances may vary.
Recently, Abbott brought out a software update for their FreeStyle LibreLink app1 which means that I can now monitor my glucose levels continuously with the FreeStyle Libre 2 system, which provides real-time2 minute-by-minute glucose readings on my smartphone.
A smooth transition
As I had only a couple of days to wait until I needed to change my FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor, I waited until then to do the update. When I changed the sensor, I then updated the app on my iPhone and started the whole new experience. I did find it seamless and without any problems.
I now have glucose readings in real time2 and can see how my food and exercise affect my levels. It is quite an eye-opener as I never realised how quickly I would spike after eating.
I used to say that if you were not pricking your finger, it was like driving through London blindfolded and not knowing where you were going. If you finger pricked, then you could lift the blindfold and see where you were but not know which direction you were going. With the Flash Glucose Monitor you could see which direction you were heading in. Now, with the real-time glucose readings, it is like having a live GPS system!
New insights for better control
Having this technology has enabled me to experiment and see when to take my insulin and really try and get back the control and management of my diabetes. The real benefit that I have found is that I can now reduce the level of the spikes and manage my insulin more effectively.
I am still learning and my management will probably never be perfect as diabetes has a habit of surprising you. For example, if I have to go to the toilet at night, I have noticed that my glucose levels will go up and then come down. The other thing that I have noticed is how the dawn effect (where the liver produces glucose to enable you to move your body in the morning) is quite pronounced with me.
The other benefit that I have found is that when I’m traveling or in meetings, I can see my glucose readings without drawing attention to myself. Although I still carry a finger pricker as a backup in case my phone battery dies or I lose my phone3.
To me this system with real-time glucose readings1,2 is a total life-saver and I look forward to seeing it available to all those like me who need one.
Ken Tait is a FreeStyle Libre ambassador. You can follow him on X @bromleydiabetic
1 The FreeStyle LibreLink app is only compatible with certain mobile devices and operating systems. Please check the website for more information about device compatibility before using the app. Use of FreeStyle LibreLink may require registration with LibreView.
2 Glucose readings are automatically displayed in the FreeStyle LibreLink app only when the smartphone and the FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor are connected and in range.
3 Finger pricks are required if glucose readings and alarms do not match symptoms or expectations.
ADC-85773 (v1.0) 02/24
The Updated Way of Managing My Diabetes
Diabetes, Healthcare Team and Me
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