Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology is a rapidly evolving field that is changing the way we monitor our glucose levels. CGM technology has proven to be a game-changer in metabolic health, ageing, disease prevention and treatment, cognitive and physical energy, and microbiome impact. This article explores the benefits of CGM technology and how it is revolutionizing healthcare.
Understanding Continuous Glucose Monitor Technology
Continuous glucose monitoring technology involves the use of a small, wearable device that measures glucose levels in real-time. The device is attached to the skin and uses a small sensor that is inserted under the skin to measure glucose levels continuously. The data collected is then transmitted wirelessly to a receiver or a smartphone, which allows for real-time monitoring of glucose levels.
Benefits of Continuous Glucose Monitor Technology:
Reducing ageing processes
Reducing the risk of age-related diseases such as Alzheimer's.
Disease Prevention and Treatment
Boosting cognitive and physical energy
Positive impact on our microbiome
Metabolic Health
Metabolic health refers to the state of the body's metabolic processes, including the regulation of glucose levels. Glucose is a critical source of energy for the body, but when its levels are too high or too low, it can lead to serious health problems. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology has emerged as a powerful tool for managing metabolic health by providing real-time data on glucose levels.
Biochemistry of Glucose Regulation
The body's glucose levels are tightly regulated by a complex interplay of hormones and enzymes. Insulin is a hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating glucose levels. It is produced by the pancreas and helps to transport glucose from the bloodstream into cells, where it can be used for energy or stored for later use. Glucagon, another hormone produced by the pancreas, helps to raise blood glucose levels by promoting the breakdown of stored glycogen in the liver.
When glucose levels in the blood are too high, insulin is released to transport glucose into cells, where it is used for energy or stored as glycogen in the liver and muscle tissue. When glucose levels are too low, glucagon is released, causing the liver to break down glycogen into glucose and release it into the bloodstream.
However, the body's glucose regulation system can malfunction, leading to conditions such as diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the body's immune system attacks the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin, leading to a lack of insulin and high blood glucose levels. In type 2 diabetes, the body becomes resistant to insulin, leading to high blood glucose levels.
Continuous Glucose Monitoring and Metabolic Health
For individuals with diabetes, CGM technology has proven to be a valuable tool in managing blood glucose levels. It provides real-time data on glucose levels, which allows for better management of insulin therapy and can reduce the risk of developing complications associated with diabetes. By monitoring glucose levels, individuals can also adjust their diet and physical activity to optimize glucose levels, which can lead to improved metabolic health.
CGM technology can also be used to monitor glucose levels in individuals who are at risk of developing or have already developed diabetes or any of the metabolic syndromes. By monitoring glucose levels, individuals can make lifestyle changes, such as adjusting their diet and increasing physical activity, to improve their metabolic health and prevent the development of diabetes.
Top Three Companies Operating in Europe
Abbott: Abbott is a global healthcare company that develops and markets a range of healthcare products, including continuous glucose monitoring systems. Abbott's FreeStyle Libre system is a popular CGM system that has been widely adopted in Europe.
Dexcom: Dexcom is a medical device company that specializes in the development of continuous glucose monitoring systems. The company's G6 system is a popular CGM system that provides real-time data on glucose levels.
Medtronic: Medtronic is a medical device company that develops and markets a range of healthcare products, including continuous glucose monitoring systems. The company's Guardian Connect system is a popular CGM system that provides real-time data on glucose levels and allows for remote monitoring by healthcare professionals.
In conclusion, as a Functional Nutrition Practitioner, I believe that CGM technology is an essential tool in managing metabolic health and improving overall health and well-being. By using this technology in conjunction with a complete fatty acids and gut test, I can identify the underlying causes of high levels of cholesterols, triglycerides, LDL, and insulin resistance and develop personalized plans to address these imbalances.