I am a diabetic. Not a very well behaved one I accept. I sneak the odd cake or chocolate and justify it by saying that I will walk it off. But, perhaps it is time to keep a closer eye on all things diabetic.
I was diagnosed as a diabetic in 2012 and I have worked hard to change my lifestyle. For me this was the correct choice. Rather than accept that I would be on drugs and ultimately injecting insulin, I wanted to see what I could do myself. Using exercise and watching what I ate (and drank) I have managed to keep it under control as far as possible..
Unfortunately for many of us, despite being careful about what we eat, exercising and drinking lots of water, the disease marches on.
When I was contacted through my blog by Ascensia to ask if I would review their new Contour Next One blood meter I was intrigued. I love tech and use apps on my phone to remind me of just about everything. There is a list app, pill reminder apps, calendar apps, shopping apps and more. I love them, they keep me straight and also help with the brain fog (associated with Fibromyalgia). If you would like to try it you can get a free meter here.
Self Management
I have learned that with all my conditions self management is the key. I am the only one who knows me as well as I do. Talking the driving seat in managing my diabetes I believe is essential.
Use of mobile phones for blood glucose monitoring can help patients manage their condition: According to an editorial piece published in the Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology, the integration of blood glucose monitoring technology with mobile phones can provide additional convenience and ease-of-use for people with diabetes by allowing blood glucose monitoring data to be automatically captured and analysed in near real time, helping people with diabetes manage their blood glucose levels.
This is true in my case. It is exciting to think that the use of tech in the form of mobile phones can actually lead to better diabetes management, and ultimately better glycemic control. Since being diagnosed I have always aimed to reduce my hb1ac. I get this measured every six months and reward myself with a treat (like a manicure) if I have maintained or reduced my levels.
The Contour Next One
The Contour Next One is, at first glance similar to any other system. The meter is really neat, but the difference is in the interface with the app on your smart phone. I was a little intimidated about the prospect of setting up the app and getting it all synced and ready but, honestly it was so easy. Testing is much the same as normal, but tracking them becomes so easy.
The wireless meter simply sends your reading to your phone – it’s that simple. This is an ideal system for someone who is testing regularly and monitoring. The system allows you to log what you eat, whether you are testing before or after food. There is also a cool system where you can either use smart testing (set up for insulin users, and non-insulin users) or you can set up your own reminders.
At this point I am not insulin dependent. I do know a good few friends and family who are and I would certainly recommend this system.
Next week is my visit to the practice nurse who manages the diabetes programme. I will have my phone with me and be ready to show my trends, my readings, and hopefully get a good report card!
This is a sponsored post, and I was given the meter, however the reporting is totally my own and I can honestly say that I do like the system and will be using it going forward.
Thank you so much for reading, and if you are a diabetic and would like to chat about it with a fellow diabetic please feel free to get in touch.
Kerry x
