It’s easy to quickly understand the power of a continuous glucose monitor (CGM). The data you get from the CGM is invaluable and an amazing learning tool; you learn very quickly what works for you. But this data should be informative – not consuming. CGM data is also just one piece of getting your glucose levels under control and improving your type 2 diabetes.
As you progress through Level2, another important thing to learn is how to tune in to your body’s signals without relying on your CGM to tell you what’s going on. Plus, a part of being in remission from type 2 is truly not depending on that CGM or medications – you won’t want to wear it forever. Learn more about how your progress in Level2 will mean less frequent CGM wear from this article.
People who are able to go without wearing a CGM have mastered some key skills. These include:
Knowing what works for their bodies. They know which combinations are glucose friendly or unfriendly for them (for example, eating cereal and then sitting all morning may be a bad combo). We created an Achievement Checklist that works as a helpful way to see all the things that have worked for you so that you can continue to be reminded of them moving into the future without a CGM.
Reading their bodies’ signals. They can tell by the way they feel – and they’re able to read the subtle signs – to know when their body is telling them something good or bad about their health. Learn more about how to tune in to your body’s signals here.
Understanding hunger. People who are ready to wear a CGM less of the time are especially good at reading one signal in particular: Hunger. Read more about how to know if you’re really hungry (versus worried about blood sugar or bored).
They know how to reassure themselves. If they’re afraid that their glucose is spiking, they just take a quick fingerstick to make sure they are in range. (And they don’t need to use fingersticks multiple times in a day or every day because they know they are typically in tune. It’s simply reassurance.)
They know their support system. Successful members who live without a CGM identify friends, family members or coworkers who can help support them in their new lifestyle changes that enable them to get to the point of going without a CGM. They also use their Fitbit or other activity tracker, journaling or even the Achievement Checklist to hold themselves accountable to their own health.
When to Decrease Your CGM Wear:
When it’s time for you to taper your CGM use, someone from your Level2 care team will reach out to let you know. After that, tell your coach how you plan to wear your CGM one month of CGM out of every three months, and you can work together to create a plan that will get you to going CGM-free if that’s a goal of yours.
Read the Level2 Clinical Policy on CGM wear.
Sep. 14 2021