My Journey into Glucose Monitoring

As a wellness editor, I thrive on testing the latest health technologies. So, when I discovered the partnership between Oura Ring and Dexcom's Stelo, a continuous glucose monitor for non-diabetics, I had to dive in. This collaboration aims to enlighten everyday individuals about how their diet shapes blood sugar levels and overall wellness.

According to Maz Brumand of Oura, this synergy allows us to draw connections between our eating habits, energy levels, mood, and recovery, enabling lasting, evidence-based lifestyle changes.

What You Need to Know About Continuous Glucose Monitoring

Understanding blood glucose is crucial because it's literally your body's fuel. When we consume foods, especially those rich in carbohydrates, our blood sugar rises, prompting insulin to transport that sugar into our cells for energy or storage. However, frequent spikes or drops in glucose can lead to fatigue, mood swings, and long-term health issues—even for those without diabetes.

Brumand asserts that monitoring glucose can provide significant insights into our health, revealing how our bodies react to different foods.

The Realities of Glucose Levels: What’s Normal?

Prior to using a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), I thought blood sugar levels were either stable or wildly fluctuating. However, as I tracked my glucose throughout the day, I learned that fluctuations are both normal and expected—especially after meals.

For adults without diabetes, a typical blood sugar range is between 70 and 140 mg/dL. Brief spikes—even above 140 mg/dL—are common and generally not concerning if they return to normal within a short time.

Setting Up My Stelo Monitor: A Seamless Experience

Acquiring the Stelo monitor was a breeze, costing about $99 for two sensors. Applying it was quick and surprisingly pain-free. Once set up, I was able to monitor my glucose levels directly through the Oura app and track how my habits impacted my readings in real-time.

My Surprising Discoveries: Healthy Foods and Glucose Spikes

One of the biggest shocks was seeing how some 'healthy' foods influenced my glucose levels. For instance, a morning pressed juice shot my glucose up higher than I expected. In contrast, a fruit smoothie packed with protein and fiber kept my levels stable. This revelation urged me to rethink how I consume fruit-heavy beverages and other foods.

Food Pairing: The Key to Balanced Blood Sugar

Later, when I had sushi paired with edamame, my glucose levels stayed balanced. Oura's AI coach reinforced that combining carbs with protein, healthy fats, and fiber yields better glucose control.

Surprising Effects of Physical Activity

I also learned that post-meal movement matters. After enjoying a slice of cake, a simple 15-minute walk helped maintain stable glucose levels—light walking can naturally reduce sugar spikes.

Top 3 Strategies for Managing Blood Sugar Without Sacripficing Your Diet

Originally, I believed managing blood sugar meant drastically altering my diet. But I found that how and when I eat is equally pivotal. Here are three strategies I discovered for keeping my glucose in check:

1. Combine Carbs With Protein, Fiber, and Healthy Fats

Whether it’s pairing apples with peanut butter or whole-grain bread with avocado, this practice helps ensure gentle rises in blood sugar.

2. Regular Walks Post-Meals

Short walks can be a game changer. Just 10-15 minutes of light exercise after meals can significantly moderate blood sugar spikes.

3. Timing is Everything

Eating higher-carb foods earlier in the day often results in better blood sugar management compared to nighttime consumption. Morning meals can help stabilize your glucose levels.

In conclusion, this journey into glucose tracking has transformed my understanding of diet and health. So, are you ready to explore how your food choices impact your life?