Skip to Content
chevron-left chevron-right chevron-up chevron-right chevron-left arrow-back star phone quote checkbox-checked search wrench info shield play connection mobile coin-dollar spoon-knife ticket pushpin location gift fire feed bubbles home heart calendar price-tag credit-card clock envelop facebook instagram twitter youtube pinterest yelp google reddit linkedin envelope bbb pinterest homeadvisor angies
Feb 28, 2025|Medical Supply

Benefits of Using a Blood Glucose Meter

Keeping Up with Blood Sugar Levels

For those with diabetes, a blood glucose meter is an invaluable tool in managing their condition. Compact and easy to use, a glucose meter offers a convenient way to track levels of blood glucose, and this can help prevent complications from diabetes. But did you know that people without diabetes can also benefit from this device? A vital tool for self-monitoring, a blood glucose meter can offer insight into health, and help with its management.

Person using a blood glucose meter for a diabetes test in Houston, TX

How is a Blood Sugar (Glucose) Meter Used for Monitoring?

When you first start using a blood glucose meter, it may seem intimidating. However, you will soon get used to the routine and it will get easier. Here are the steps to use with a blood sugar meter:

  • Check the meter to be sure it is clean.
  • Take a test strip out of the container, closing the container quickly to prevent damage to the strips.
  • Wash your hands, dry them, and massage your hand to improve blood flow.
  • Use the small needle found in the glucometer kit, called a lancet, to prick your finger, taking care to use a clean lancet each time.
  • Gently squeeze your finger, so that you can place a drop of blood onto the test strip.
  • Put the strip into the meter and wait for the reading to appear.
  • Record your results in a logbook or app.
  • Dispose of the lancet and test strip.

Types of Glucose Meters

The standard glucometer works well for people who do not require insulin injections and do not have to test very frequently. Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) are a better fit for those with type 1 diabetes, people who have an insulin pump, and those who need tight control over their blood sugar. A non-invasive device that uses a sensor on the skin, a CGM does not require finger sticks, but measures glucose in real time. Glucose monitors come in a wide variety, differing in terms of size, portability, cost, ease of use, and time the test takes. You can choose the one that works best for you, but be careful to always follow the manufacturer’s directions.

How Can Blood Sugar Levels Be Checked?

Checking blood sugar with a glucose meter is easy. A standard glucometer requires a small prick of the finger, which allows a drop of blood to be collected on the test strip. The strip is then inserted into the meter, and the meter reads the blood sugar level. A continuous glucose meter (CGM) works slightly differently. A sensor wire placed just under the skin is held in place with an adhesive patch. The sensor is connected to a transmitter, and it provides blood glucose readings in real time.

Benefits of a Glucose Meter

  • Early Detection of Diabetes: If you are at risk of diabetes, you can begin testing your blood sugar regularly, and that can allow you to catch the disease when it is still in its early stages.
  • Improved Diabetes Management: For people who already have diabetes, monitoring blood glucose levels can allow them to better manage their condition by adjusting their diet and medication to keep sugar levels under control. Controlling glucose levels is the key to avoiding serious complications from diabetes.
  • Better Overall Health: Whether or not you have diabetes, you can use a blood glucose meter to determine which foods cause your blood sugar to spike. In this way, it can be a tool to help you maintain a healthy weight.
  • Easy to Use: The simplicity of blood glucose meters makes monitoring sugar levels convenient.
  • Cost-effective: Over the years, the cost of blood glucose meters has dropped significantly. Now, they are cost effective, and that is a boon for people with diabetes.
  • Empowers Patients: Using a blood glucose meter gives you a better understanding of your condition, and helps you to take charge of your health.

What Are Healthy Blood Sugar Level Ranges?

Blood sugar levels are measured in milligrams of glucose per deciliter of blood (mg/dL). A reading of 180 mg/dL or higher is considered unhealthy. Low blood sugar levels, under 70 mg/dL, are also considered unhealthy. According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), the glucose level before a meal should between 80 mg/dL and 130 mg/dL. After a meal, the glucose level should be below 180 mg/dL.

Find Your Blood Glucose Meter with Texas Medical Supply

For high-quality medical supplies from industry-leading manufacturers, trust Texas Medical Supply. Our locally owned and operated medical supply company, located in Houston, TX, offers an extensive selection of hospital beds, lift chairs, mobility scooters, power wheelchairs, and more. Whether you are looking to buy or rent medical equipment, we have something to fit your budget and lifestyle, including used equipment at affordable prices. Our team of experts is here for you every step of the way, from helping you make the most of your equipment to delivering equipment directly to your home, to assembling your equipment for you. Shop now to find the medical equipment you need, or contact us through our website for more information.

What to Read Next
Back to the top