I Wore a Glucose Monitor for 6 Weeks: Insights into Food and Health

Waren Burn

2 min read

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30-11-2024

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For six weeks, I embarked on a personal experiment: I wore a continuous glucose monitor (CGM). My goal wasn't weight loss or a strict diet; instead, I wanted a deeper understanding of how different foods affected my blood sugar levels and, consequently, my overall health. This wasn't about restriction, but rather about informed choices.

Beyond the Numbers: Understanding Glucose Fluctuations

The CGM provided a wealth of data, far beyond the occasional finger-prick test. I saw a continuous stream of information, charting my glucose levels throughout the day and night. This revealed patterns I wouldn't have noticed otherwise. For instance, I discovered that while my morning oatmeal typically resulted in a steady glucose curve, a seemingly innocuous lunchtime sandwich could trigger a sharp spike followed by a significant drop.

The Surprising Discoveries

Some findings were surprising. Certain foods I considered "healthy" caused more dramatic fluctuations than others I might have deemed less so. This highlighted the importance of understanding not just what I ate, but how my body processed it. The CGM wasn't just about numbers; it was about understanding my individual metabolic response.

• Unexpected Spikes: Certain fruits, while nutrient-rich, caused steeper glucose increases than anticipated. This underscored the importance of portion control and mindful consumption, even with healthy options.
• Gradual Increases: Complex carbohydrates, like whole grains, generally resulted in more gradual glucose increases, indicating a slower digestion and steadier energy release.
• Individual Responses: The data emphasized the highly individual nature of metabolic responses. What might cause a dramatic spike in one person could be negligible in another.

Beyond the Data: Lifestyle and Wellbeing

The experience went beyond just tracking food. The CGM also highlighted the impact of sleep, stress, and exercise on glucose regulation. Poor sleep correlated with higher fasting glucose levels, while even moderate exercise led to improved glucose control. This reinforced the interconnectedness of different aspects of overall well-being.

The Limitations of the Experiment

It's important to note that this was a personal experiment, not a clinical trial. The insights are anecdotal and specific to my own body. Moreover, while CGMs are increasingly accessible, they aren't a replacement for professional medical advice.

Conclusion: Informed Choices, Not Restrictions

Wearing a CGM for six weeks offered valuable insights into my relationship with food and my overall health. It wasn't about eliminating favorite foods but about making more informed choices. Understanding how my body responds to different foods empowers me to make better decisions and manage my health proactively. This experience highlights the importance of individualized approaches to nutrition and the potential for technology to enhance our understanding of our own bodies.