Having the right tools makes every task easier!

A few weeks ago I introduced you to what I call “the most effective weight-loss tool ever invented.” This dual-purpose tool is a must for monitoring ketones as well as glucose levels: A Do-It-Yourself Glucose Meter.

As many of you have heard me say before, the ideal way to manage carbohydrate intake for your unique level of metabolic tolerance is to perform finger-stick blood sugar tests.  You are striving to see no change in blood sugar. 

Test prior to eating and then 30 to 60 minutes after starting. – Tweet this.

This is also the best tool for monitoring your ketone level. The only difference is in timing, as ketone checks can be performed at any time, unlike the after-meal checks for blood sugar. Most people test ketones first thing in the morning, which approximates the highest value for the day. At the moment, the Abbott Precision Xtra is the only device that allows testing for both blood sugar and ketones. However, to test ketones, you’ll need to obtain ketone test strips and beware they can be pricey, around $4.00 per strip.

Many people are frightened at the prospect of getting their blood checked for anything, and they are particularly frightened by the prospect of checking it themselves. They’re frightened that it could be painful or expensive, or that it would make them feel like they have diabetes. Have no fear! 

 

 

As diabetics and anyone else comfortable with checking blood sugars will attest, the process is easy. It is not painful. The devices used to prick the finger are spring-loaded and cause minimal discomfort.

Glucose monitors are inexpensive, especially if you obtain a device and test strips from your physician, who will often just give them to you. The device manufacturers give them to physicians, since their money is made on the repeat sales of test strips. The equivalent of the cost of a nice dinner at a restaurant equals a purchase of a glucose meter and test strips for glucose and ketones.

There are a number of options out there. I’ve had good experiences with the OneTouch Ultra, Accu-Chek Aviva, Bayer Contour, and ReliOn brands.

 

The Abbott Precision Xtra tests for both glucose and ketones, using different test strips for each. – Tweet this.

 

 

 

 

 

They are easy to use. Instructions are provided with each device, and it will take about 15 minutes to get any of these up and running.

It only takes minutes. Once you get comfortable with the process, it requires just 1 to 2 minutes to obtain a blood sugar or ketone value.

Yours in grainless health,

Dr. William Davis, MD

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