About One in Three Americans: The Importance of Blood Glucose Monitoring
Approximately one in three Americans—125 million people—are prediabetic or have Type 2 diabetes. The Dexcom Stelo glucose monitor is designed for these individuals and has proven effective. Available now without a prescription, Stelo is the first blood sugar monitor aimed at those who don't yet have diabetes.
After wearing the Stelo for a couple of weeks, I discovered how it clarifies the body’s response to carbohydrates and sugars. This biosensor can be purchased at Stelo.com for Americans aged 18 and older who do not use insulin.
24/7 Glucose Monitoring
Unlike traditional one-off tests, Stelo offers an over-the-counter sensor that continuously collects data, delivering near real-time glucose readings through a smartphone app. These personalized insights help individuals understand how their food, exercise, and sleep influence their glucose levels, particularly beneficial for those diagnosed as prediabetic.
I first learned about Dexcom in 2020 while reviewing the Dexcom G6 sensor, which was bulkier and had a shorter battery life. Thanks to advancements in technology, Stelo represents a significant improvement, aligning with the necessity of effective glucose monitoring.
Why Blood Glucose Levels Matter
As Dexcom emphasizes, glucose monitoring can seamlessly integrate into your lifestyle. Until recently, obtaining permission to use a Dexcom device required a doctor's prescription, as it was FDA-approved primarily for Type 1 diabetes patients reliant on insulin.
I’ve long been intrigued by how technology allows for a "quantified self" experience. My early attempts with health tracking devices didn’t yield insightful data—until I tested the Dexcom monitor. It offered invaluable health metrics, revealing how lifestyle choices affected my body, transforming my understanding of personal health management.
For many, like Ric Peralta, a 47-year-old living with diabetes for 12 years, such monitoring vastly improves the convenience of glucose management and enhances the quality of life amidst life-threatening risks.
The Importance of Glucose Levels
Glucose monitors are crucial for diabetic patients, as diabetes impacts millions in the U.S. and ranks as a leading cause of death. Traditionally, patients endured painful fingerstick tests multiple times daily, but the Dexcom Stelo significantly eases this process.
With a battery life of 15 days—better than the 10 days of its predecessor—the Stelo wearable uses cutting-edge glucose sensing technology. For Type 1 diabetes patients, a dysfunctional pancreas means insulin cannot adequately regulate blood sugar. Type 2 diabetes, characterized by ineffective insulin processing, requires careful monitoring to prevent health risks from extreme blood sugar fluctuations.
Stelo’s Innovations
Stelo revolutionizes glucose tracking: no prescriptions or cumbersome fingersticks are needed. Designed for adults with Type 2 diabetes not using insulin and prediabetics, it provides personalized glucose insights crucial for managing health.
According to Jake Leach, Dexcom’s COO, with Stelo’s launch, they’re establishing a new standard in health management, enabling millions to easily access continuous glucose insights that support lifestyle adjustments.
Research shows that using Dexcom's glucose biosensing improves diabetes management and slows disease progression. As Dr. Thomas Grace notes, "Dexcom glucose biosensors are essential for driving clinical outcomes and promoting overall health."
Key Features of Stelo
- Pain-Free Sensor: Stelo requires only a quick prick to attach; there are no further fingersticks.
- Long Battery Life: Lasts up to 15 days and is waterproof, making it more effective than prior models.
- User-Friendly App: Offers daily and weekly insights that encourage healthier habits.
- Spike Detection: Tracks meaningful glucose variability, notifying users of spikes from carbohydrate-rich meals.
Research indicates that using Stelo can lower A1c levels for Type 2 diabetes patients and may assist in preventing further complications.
Affordable Access to Glucose Monitoring
Stelo is an accessible option for individuals without prescription coverage. Available for purchase at Stelo.com, it costs $99 for two sensors—enabling 30 days of wear—or subscribe monthly for $89, receiving two sensors every month.
As part of Dexcom’s portfolio, Stelo complements other products like the Dexcom G6 and G7 systems, which require prescriptions and are insured in most cases. Stelo, however, is crafted to support adults with Type 2 diabetes and prediabetes without insulin treatment, focusing on lifestyle changes and optimized health.
My Experience with Stelo
After using Stelo for a couple of weeks, I found it remarkably comfortable to wear. It accurately tracked my glucose levels, revealing how my diet affected my readings—especially during travel, when I unintentionally increased carb consumption. The app enabled me to identify problematic foods, guiding my dietary choices moving forward.
For anyone seeking transparent insight into their health and confronting prediabetes, I recommend considering the Stelo.
Disclosure: Dexcom provided me with a Stelo sensor for testing purposes.
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