Choosing the Right Blood Sugar Monitor: A Comprehensive Guide for Diabetics

Types of blood sugar monitors for diabetics

If you are diabetic, you can check your blood sugar level with various devices, including:

Traditional Blood Glucose Meters:

This device is an accurate, instant, portable, affordable, and requires a finger prick (blood). It is widely available and offers manual testing.

To use it, you have to place a test strip into the meter, prick your finger to draw a small blood sample, and place the sample on the test strip to get the readings. 

Popular Brands in the UK:

• Accu-Chek (e.g., Accu-Chek Instant, Accu-Chek Aviva)
• OneTouch (e.g., OneTouch Verio, OneTouch Ultra)
• Contour (e.g., Contour Next, Contour Next One)

Blood sugar monitor without finger pricks (CGM)

Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) provide real-time glucose level tracking without the need for frequent finger pricks. They use a small sensor inserted under the skin to continuously measure glucose levels.

It is comparatively expensive for most diabetic patients but ideal for those who require frequent monitoring and detailed insights into how certain activities or foods affect their blood glucose levels.

Popular Brands in the UK:

• Abbott's Freestyle Libre (e.g., FreeStyle Libre 2, FreeStyle Libre 3, FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus)
• Dexcom (e.g., Dexcom G6)
• Eversense (available in select locations, involves a minor surgical procedure for sensor insertion)

Smart Glucose Meters

You can connect your smartphones with these meters to sync data with health apps for better tracking.

Smart glucose meters perform blood sugar monitoring without test strips and can integrate with many fitness apps, letting you track and manage various health metrics efficiently. 

Popular Brands in the UK:

• DarioHealth (Dario Blood Glucose Monitoring System)
• GlucoMen (GlucoMen Areo 2K, GlucoMen Savvy)
• OneTouch (OneTouch Reveal App integration with OneTouch meters)

Non-invasive glucose monitors

are a relatively new technology that aims to measure blood sugar levels without requiring a blood sample. These devices are currently under development and not as widely available as traditional or smart glucose meters.

Some non-invasive monitors use sensors that measure glucose levels through the skin or other innovative methods.

While this technology holds promise for providing a more convenient and less painful way to monitor blood sugar, it's important to note that their accuracy and reliability may vary compared to traditional methods.

Popular Brands in the UK:

• GlucoTrack (still under development and not widely available)
• D-Base (an innovative model using heat measurement, currently in development)

How do I choose the right blood sugar monitor for my needs?

If you are looking for a blood glucose monitor, consider the following points to make the right decision:

Accuracy

Accuracy is an important factor as your treatment and insulin dose depend on the displayed results. So, ensure the monitor offers reliable readings and meets FDA standards. 

Insurance

Consult your insurance provider to figure out coverage details regarding specific models and the total number of test strips that are allowed. It will save you time and narrow your research.

Cost 

Each meter offers a different price range. So, choose a meter that fits your budget and the features you want. 

Ease of Use

As you have to use a glucose meter several times a day, ensure it is easy to use and hold. If it is complicated or takes too much time to display readings, it will make the whole process tiresome.

Size 

Choose a portable, lightweight, and compact meter for comfort and to use it easily at home or on the go. 

Data Storage

Many glucose meters have the feature to store previous data and share it with your doctor. So choose that model for easy data syncing.

Additional Features

Always look for advanced features such as smartphone integration, Bluetooth connectivity, illuminated screens, and alarms for low/high sugar levels to meet your needs and make your life easy.

What is the Best Blood Sugar Monitor in the UK?

Selecting the best blood sugar monitor is a daunting process. That is why we have selected the most accurate and affordable blood sugar monitor to buy in the UK for you to make the selection process easy. These are:

The Abbott Diabetes Care FreeStyle Libre

Libre blood sugar monitor is a stylish, easy-to-use, and convenient blood glucose meter. It is also called a mini-meter or micrometer and fits perfectly into the palm of your hand.

It is one of the adult diabetes solutions approved by the FDA in 2017. FreeStyle Libre uses sensors, measures your blood glucose via interstitial fluids underneath your skin, and does not need finger pricking. 

However, the original Libre system lacks alarms for too high or too low alerts, but the Libre 2 system has these advanced features and is best for Pediatric diabetes management.

Furthermore, the Libre 3 system is now approved and is used in Europe for diabetes education and management. 

Bayer’s Contour Next USB

The Bayer’s Contour Next USB is efficient, fast, and can monitor blood glucose levels with a blood sample of 0.6 microliters.

It is one of the most elegant glucose meters on the market, intended for those who value accuracy and precision.

This device lets you transfer blood glucose data by USB to the computer for tracking and analysis. It uses accurate Contour Next test strips that require small amounts of blood. 

Moreover, it has an easy-to-read display and provides results within 5 seconds, allowing you to manage diabetes at home or on the go easily.

It works in synergy with Diabetes Management Software to allow you to exchange information with doctors for improved treatment plans.

Lifescan’s One Touch Ultraeasy

OneTouch UltraEasy by Lifescan is a small, portable blood glucose meter that is very easy to use and offers timely results.

The unit has a one-touch operation, and its simplicity makes it an excellent machine for those who want a no-fuss way to monitor blood sugar levels.

The meter takes only 5 seconds to give results; also, it is compact and lightweight, making it perfect for on-the-go metering.

It has a capacity for storage of up to 500 test results and compatibility with OneTouch's diabetes management software, letting you track your progress over time.

Accu-Chek Aviva Nano

The Accu-Chek Aviva Nano is a small, accurate, efficient, and user-friendly blood sugar monitor. It has a portable, sleek design and provides accurate readings in 5 seconds with only a small blood sample.

It has features such as pre- and post–meal markers, to determine how the meals affect your glycemic levels. The large screen at the back of it makes it easy to read even at night.

The Accu-Chek Aviva Nano comes with built-in memory to store up to 500 test results and can transfer data to diabetes management software through USB.

Accu-Chek Mobile

The Accu-Chek Mobile is a convenient and innovative blood glucose monitor for those who want portable, mess-free, and accurate blood sugar monitoring.

It differs from conventional glucose meters in that it has a built-in test cassette, so there is no need for separate test strips and lancets.

This makes testing faster and more hygienic. It also has a memory feature for tracking blood glucose levels and can store up to 500 test results.

Moreover, it has a USB connection port, where you can download your results easily to your computer. 

Trueone Blood Glucose Meter

The Trueone Blood Glucose Meter is one of the world’s smallest, efficient, and convenient blood sugar monitors. It is designed to provide fast and accurate results that enable diabetics to regulate their body glucose intake.

The meter needs tiny blood samples and delivers results in a few seconds, making it perfect for daily use and users of all ages.

It can fit into your sports bag, handbag, or pocket, featuring a large display, affordable test strips, and a simple interface.

Its incredible memory function keeps a record of your previous data, offering better analysis and diabetes management.

Arkray Walmart ReliOn Confirm (Micro)

The Arkray Walmart ReliOn Confirm (Micro) offers affordable and reliable blood sugar monitoring to those who want an inexpensive diabetes management solution.

It is a compact and simple device that needs a small amount of blood sample, reducing comfort and making it perfect for users of all ages.

Furthermore, it can hold up to 250 results and its no-coding and pocket-friendly strips guarantee precise results every time.

AgaMatrix CVS Advanced

The AgaMatrix CVS Advanced blood sugar monitor is a great and cheap solution for diabetes control. It has a user-friendly interface, offering accurate, precise, and fast results.

It features a small size and convenient test strip insertion, making it suitable for use at home and while traveling.

AgaMatrix CVS Advanced is also linked with the AgaMatrix Diabetes app to help users store their blood sugar readings for better diabetes management.

Eversense CGM

The Eversense CGM system was made by Senseonics and approved by the FDA in 2019. It offers a long-term approach to blood glucose tracking as it provides continuous monitoring for 6 months with a single sensor insertion.

Unlike other CGMs, the Eversense sensor is placed under the skin (particularly on the upper arm) by a healthcare provider to lessen the need for frequent replacements.

The device enables you to monitor your glucose level constantly, warn a user about high or low glucose levels, and lets you remove the on-body transmitter when needed.

Eversense is one of the best finger prick alternatives that can integrate with a smartphone app, making diabetes management hassle-free and offering long-term glucose control.

Dexcom G6 CGM

The Dexcom G6 CGM is a premium device approved by the FDA in 2018 for people of 2 years and older. It helps you manage your blood sugar levels precisely and easily, offering real-time reading every five minutes for 10 days to your tablets, phones, or watches.

It does not need a lancet for finger pricking; besides this, a small, water-resistant sensor is placed under your skin, offering constant monitoring, accurate results, and alarms at high or low blood sugar levels.

It is perfect for those who want a hassle-free solution for blood sugar monitoring.

Guardian Connect System

The Guardian Connect System is a CGM technology that has been developed to assist people with diabetes in monitoring the level of glucose effectively.

It is made by Medtronic and approved by the FDA in 2018, employing a small sensor that is placed under the skin to monitor glucose levels throughout the day and night.

It provides real-time data to your smartphone, letting you track, monitor, be updated, and predict lows & highs before happening.

The Guardian Connect System offers detailed insights, allowing you to maintain your medication, diet, or insulin dosing for better glucose control.

It is best for people 14 years and older, featuring cutting-edge technology, minimizing blood sugar fluctuation, and improving overall health. 

D-Base

The D-Base device is one of the innovative glucose meters that don’t need a finger prick, created by a German company called DiaMonTech, and assists you in regulating and preventing high or low levels of glucose.

In this, an infrared laser beams through your skin, causing glucose to convert the light to heat. The results are calculated according to the amount of heat produced.

This device offers precise data and lets you manage your exercise, medicines, and diet for better sugar control.

You can connect the D-Base device with mobile apps to track trends, share data, and set alerts for personalized management strategies. 

OneTouch Verio Reflect

The OneTouch Verio Reflect is an innovative technology, that helps you measure the level of glucose in the blood and control it properly.

It has a user-friendly interface, offering detailed readings analysis and allowing you to understand trends in your blood sugar level management.

It features Bluetooth connectivity, automatic data syncing, and color-coded alerts, letting you know when your blood sugar level is high, low, or in the right range.

This smart glucose meter offers seamless health monitoring and supports better decision-making in diabetes management.

Why Should You Invest in a Quality Blood Sugar Meter?

The quality and feature-rich monitor lets you manage your diabetes efficiently. It helps you to:

• Track how your body responds to stress, exercise, or certain foods.
• Share data with your doctor for better treatment options.
• Adjust your insulin dosage or medicines according to reliable readings. 

What is the Importance of Accurate Blood Glucose Monitoring in Diabetes Management?

A blood sugar level of less than 140 mg per deciliter or greater than 70 mg per deciliter is considered a target range. The management of diabetes starts with the constant checking of your blood sugar levels.

A blood sugar monitor, or glucose meter, lets you track the amount of glucose in your blood, which is essential for making changes to medicine, food, and other aspects of everyday life. 

No matter, if you are a Type 1 diabetes patient, a Type 2 diabetes patient, or a gestational diabetes patient, proper blood sugar control makes a big difference to the quality and longevity of your life.

It also reduces the risk of complications, including kidney damage, stroke, nerve damage, glaucoma, high blood pressure, and skin problems. 

How to Make Glucose Monitoring Easy: Useful Tips

Whether you are using a traditional meter or advanced CGM, you can make your glucose monitoring easy with these tips:

Before using any device, read its instructions carefully for precise readings. 

For accurate results, properly wash your hands (in case of meter) or skin area (in case of CGM) with water and soap before using a meter or placing a sensor. Do not use hand sanitizer or alcohol wipes, as it will result in false results.

 If you experience discomfort or skin irritation while using the sensor, consult your doctor immediately.

Use the side of your fingertip (fingertip closer to your fingernail) for pricking as it is less sensitive and offers less pain. 

Do not prick the same finger each time. Use a different finger or spot on the same finger to reduce sensitivity and pain. 

Always use a fresh lancet for pricking. If you use the same lancet each time, it will become dull and offer more pain.

 Coldness increases sensitivity, so warm your hands by rubbing them together for a few minutes before pricking. This approach will enhance blood circulation and offer less pain.

What are the Future Advances in Blood Glucose Testing?

The future of blood sugar monitoring will offer innovative ways to manage your diabetes, including:

Radio waves technology: Researchers are now on their way to use radio waves to measure blood sugar levels.

Multiple waves: Advances are made, and experiments are conducted to measure blood sugar levels with thermal, ultrasonic, and electromagnetic waves.

Tears: Some researchers are using tear fluid to monitor blood sugar levels by placing a sensor under your lower eyelid. 

Lasers and contacts: In the future, some technology may use laser technology and smart contact lenses to measure blood sugar levels. 

Alternative site monitor: It allows you to draw blood from the less painful areas such as the thigh, palm of your hand, arm, etc.

GlucoTrack: It is one of the alternatives to traditional monitoring, measuring blood sugar levels with ear clip sensors and offering pain-free management.

The Bottom Line: What Sets the Blood Sugar Monitor Apart?

Selecting the right blood sugar level monitor is very important, especially for diabetes patients. No doubt, each type of blood sugar monitor is equipped with great technology and offers amazing features;

the selection depends on your needs and budget. CGM or non-invasive glucose monitors offer reliable tracking without finger pricking but it is expensive.

Traditional meters are affordable but lack advanced features such as data storage & syncing, Bluetooth connectivity, etc.

So, choose the right blood sugar monitor that suits your lifestyle today and make your life easy! 

Important FAQs

What Features Should I Look for in a Blood Sugar Monitor?

Before buying a blood sugar monitor, you must look for its convenience, interface, accuracy, cost, result time, and advanced features like alerts, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone integration.

These features will allow better diabetes management and make your life easy. 

How Frequently Should I Check My Blood Sugar Levels with a Monitor?

The usual time for checking sugar levels is at bedtime and before meals. However, its frequency depends on the type of diabetes you have and your treatment plan.

People with Type 1 diabetes need to check their blood sugar levels multiple times a day, while patients with Type 2 diabetes perform checking less frequently or according to their doctor’s advice.  

Are there any Recommended Brands for Blood Sugar Monitors in the UK?

The recommended brands for blood sugar monitors in the UK are Accu-Chek, Contour, and OneTouch. They offer innovative, accurate, and reliable devices with advanced features, making diabetes management and tracking hassle-free. 

What Is the Most Accurate Blood Sugar Monitor?

The blood sugar monitors from reliable brands like Accu-Chek, Contour, and OneTouch are considered accurate, offering precise results and helping you manage your diabetes effectively. 

Can I Check My Blood Sugar without Pricking My Finger?

You can check your blood sugar level without finger pricking by using CGM (continuous glucose monitoring) systems like Dexcom, FreeStyle Libre, etc. This system uses sensors and offers real-time readings without finger pricking. 

Is It Worth Buying a Blood Sugar Monitor?

Buying a blood sugar monitor is worth it as it helps you manage your diabetes efficiently. It offers continuous tracking of your blood sugar level, letting you adjust your diet, exercise, and medicines effectively and promoting well-being. 

Do I Need a Prescription for a Glucose Monitor?

Generally, blood sugar monitors are available over-the-counter and you do not need a prescription. However, for advanced glucose monitors such as continuous glucose monitoring devices, you will require a prescription, depending on your treatment plan and location.

How Can I Find the Most Affordable Blood Glucose Monitors Without Compromising Quality?

To find the most affordable blood glucose monitors without compromising quality, compare prices among reliable brands like Dexcom, FreeStyle Libre, etc.

Look for notable features like insurance coverage or discounts from trustworthy retailers like Ashcroft Pharmacy to reduce expenses. 

What are the Steps to Check Your Blood Sugar Level at Home?

Whether you are using a traditional glucose meter or a CGM, follow these steps:

Steps for Glucose Meter: (blood sample required)

It is a small, portable device that helps you check your glucose level in such a way that:

1. Properly wash your hands.
2. Prepare a lancet.
3. Prick at the tip of your finger with a lancet.
4. Place a drop of blood on a test strip inserted into the meter.
5. The meter will display your blood sugar level in a few seconds. 

Steps for Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) (no finger pricks needed)

It involves a sensor and offers advanced tracking of your glucose level in such a way that:

1. Insert a sensor under your skin, whether on your arm or abdomen.
2. It continuously measures your blood sugar level and displays data.

Some alarm systems notify you when your blood sugar level is extremely high or low, allowing timely action and management.