Blood Glucose Meter

ja78911sc · 12-22-2007, 05:55 AM

I was diagnosed as a pre-diabetic two years ago (109). I lost fifty pounds, exercise daily and completely changed my diet/lifestyle. I have been testing my levels in the morning and before dinner. Morning 80's and before dinner around the same. I just purchased a new bottle of test strips (I have the cheap Walgreens model) and my fasting numbers jumped to (107).

I know there is a 10 percent variance on the results from a home testing meter. My new results are 20 percent higher from previous readings. This has been going on for the last few days with no changes in my daily routine. Meter is around six months old.

Has anyone experienced this? Any recommendations on a good meter?

many944s · 12-22-2007, 06:27 AM

I'm not familiar with your meter, but does each container of test strips come with a "calibration strip"? I was in the same boat a couple of years ago, though was mine was later determined as a PTS issue. There were a couple of times I would use a new pack of strips and my numbers would jump 15-20 points. My father (who is type II) used to notice variations from time to time with his meter. He upgraded meters not too long ago, and has not had a problem since. I will try to find out what meter he is using now.

-Nick

scottmandue · 12-22-2007, 07:21 AM

I had the same thing happen when I got new strips for my meter... still haven't figured out why.

I know the number on the bottle of test strips was different so I had to change that on the meter.

BTW you have really good numbers!

I'm afraid I have to admit to not being as disciplined as you... when I'm a good boy I can keep it down around 100 but if fall of the wagon eat like a maniac I can jump up into the 150-180 range.

Z-man · Z-man's Garage

Quote:

Originally Posted by scottmandue

I'm afraid I have to admit to not being as disciplined as you... when I'm a good boy I can keep it down around 100 but if fall of the wagon eat like a maniac I can jump up into the 150-180 range.

I lack discipline -- I'd be happy with a steady 150-180...

One Touch Ultra Smart is the unit I use -- never had a problem with it. Accurate and reliable...

-Z-man.

Ronbo · 12-22-2007, 08:19 AM

If you think the meter might be the problem you can get a new one practically free. I get my supplies from American Diabetes Wholesale (www.americandiabeteswholesale.com/) where you can get a new meter with supplies for only about $10 more than the cost of supplies alone. There is often a rebate associated with the meter which renders it free. These are well-recognized meters, such as Freestyle, Ascensia, One-Touch, etc.

I'm also jealous of your numbers. A few days ago I gave myself the rare treat of 1 slice of thin crust pizza for dinner. My fasting number next morning was in the 190s.

ja78911sc · 12-22-2007, 08:52 AM

Thanks for the responses! I have been militant about my diet & exercise. I come from a long line of diabetics. My father was one of eight children--seven have diabetes (type II). I have been able to stave it off but based on my family history, most likely will face the demon later in life.

It is nice to hear from others who understand and battle the disease. My wife really has a difficult time relating to my battle. I have a seven year old son that reads food labels--father like son. I think this is great and my wife thinks it is strange.

scottmandue · 12-22-2007, 08:54 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Z-man

I lack discipline -- I'd be happy with a steady 150-180...

-Z-man.

Count the carbs dude, three meals a day... keep it to 30-40 grams (or whatever they call it) a meal.

When I do that I'm a steady 90-120.

I know you are married and probably makes it harder for you to control your meals.

The diabetic literature I read says 20 grams a meal but I think that is unrealistic and my doctor (and everything I read) says if your in the 100 range your good.