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What in the World is CGM vs. BGM?
What in the World is CGM vs. BGM?
In our previous blog, we explained Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) according to how it works and its benefits.
Now we’re discussing the differences between Continuous Glucose Monitoring and Blood Glucose Monitoring (BGM).
To start, think of the “C” in Continuous Glucose Monitoring as “continual” and never-ending because that’s what Continuous Glucose Monitoring does.
Continuous Glucose Monitoring uploads a continuous 24/7 cycle of information taken from your blood glucose levels.
While a Blood Glucose Monitoring takes information from your blood glucose levels as well, it does not provide it continuously.
Notably, that is the major difference between the two.
What can Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) do for you?
Depending on your specific needs, you may choose a Continuous Glucose Monitor.
Aside from the benefits listed, it can give you easily accessible and diverse information you’re seeking as a user in understanding your blood glucose levels.
Though new, CGM’s are the way of the future because technology is advancing in such a way that it has created a unique entry into our healthcare system.
They’re easy to use, discrete, and data-friendly because you can breakdown complicated sets of data you can also digitally share it with a doctor or family member on command.
Benefits of Using CGM Devices
- A major benefit of using a Continuous Glucose Monitoring device (CGM), is that they’re always on, 24/7 day and night.
- The Continuous Glucose Monitor gathers information and identifies patterns. Based on your blood glucose levels, it can then translate into analytical data that you can understand.
- Continuous Glucose Monitor's contribute to better diabetes management by helping to minimize research for the user. Unlike the average Blood Glucose Monitor, which gives you numbers.
- They are scientifically proven to eliminate further health complications. Research has shown that some CGM systems may help reduce A1C levels and reduce the risk for hypoglycemia, no matter how they receive their insulin. Read more here.
- CGM's are more advanced and user-friendly. Like many of our smart devices today, it has become digitized allowing user’s to customize and control their data on a modern scale. Some of which are water-resistant and discrete.
What can Blood Glucose Monitoring (BGM) do for you?
Blood Glucose Monitoring can do many of the same things that Continuous Glucose Monitoring devices do. Though, it does not have an option to continue to detect information around the clock.
Though it’s becoming more of a former device in popularity, these devices are available almost anywhere and it’s not a new way to measure your blood glucose levels.
BGM devices are still in the healthcare industry. Its impact on how CGM depends on it for a second opinion turns heads. Does the question now become technology over tradition?
Benefits of Using BGM Devices
- There will be an existing market for BGM even though they may not be used the same.
- According to Diabetesincontrol.com, they could become the more affordable “blood glucose monitor” option, unlike CGM because of cost as there are many diabetics looking for affordability.
- BGM’s are reliable devices. The former way of BGM's recommended by medical professionals speaks volumes to the sustaining power of a Blood Glucose Monitor. A CGM depends on it to double-check the accuracy of blood glucose results.
- Even so, CGM’ is fairly new, while BGM has been around quite a while. A healthy discussion is brawling about which has the stronger arm.
- Via Medicare.gov, Blood Glucose Monitor's work with most insurance providers. So far it beats CGM in that department. Continuous Glucose Monitors are not as covered by insurance just yet, however, several major private plans do.
- It could be argued that BGM devices are a lot easier to get access. You can receive one from your doctor or purchase from a local pharmacy either in-store or online. Don’t forget to grab testing strips!
How often should you check your glucose levels?
The answer here varies. Depending on your lifestyle you may need to check your glucose levels seven times or two times.
Not everyone who monitors their glucose is necessarily a diabetic.
One reason you may check your glucose levels is if you work out regularly. In fact, its recommended.
Check out this interesting article by MarketWatch!
On the other hand, diabetics take insulin and need to practice glucose monitoring more frequently.
By Christy Love