What is SMBG and why is it important?
SMBG is a term that is used a lot in diabetes management stand for self-monitoring of blood glucose. The reason that SMBG is used a lot is that monitoring of blood glucose levels should form a routine part of self-management for everyone who has diabetes.
SMBG frequency
The frequency with which you should monitor your blood glucose would generally be agreed upon by yourself and your health care team. Several factors such as the medication that you are on and how often your blood glucose does or doesn’t go low and your HbA1c are some of the factors that would help to decide on your testing frequency.
As a general rule the guidelines recommend the following testing frequency for people with type 2 diabetes:
How often should you test your blood glucose levels?
If HbA1c targets are not being met then testing regimens such as a 7-point profile may be suggested. This involves testing fasting, before meals, 2 hours after meals and at bedtime for between 1 – 3 months
As an alternative, if your HbA1c isn’t at target your health care professional may also recommend testing 4 times per day and/ or overnight
If you are experiencing episodes of low blood glucose the testing regimen may also be increased to 4 times daily and/ or overnight
If HbA1c targets are being met then daily testing isn’t recommended in the guidelines unless yu are sick or your blood glycose levels remain persistently high
If you are on insulin then testing daily is essential. For those using insulin more than once a day, testing 3 times per day is recommended. This regimen should include tests before and after meals. For those using once daily insulin testing once daily, at various times of the day, is recommended.
How can we help you?
If you feel like you would like more information or would like to join our intensive 12 week group course then please feel free to email us at support@thediabetes-advantage.com