Blood sugar monitoring is essential for people with diabetes to maintain blood glucose levels within a healthy range. It helps you mitigate potential complications by making well-informed decisions regarding your treatment and lifestyle choices.

1 FASTING BLOOD SUGAR - Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) is a test that measures blood glucose levels after an overnight fast. This is often the first test done to check for prediabetes and diabetes.

2 HAEMOGLOBIN A1C - HbA1C test is a blood test that shows what your average blood sugar level was over the past 2 to 3 months. If you have uncontrolled diabetes it is important to do this every 3 months.

3 FINGER STICK GLUCOMETERS - These portable devices provide immediate blood sugar readings using a small blood sample obtained by pricking the fingertip.

4 CONTINUOUS GLUCOSE MONITORS - CGMs offer real-time, continuous monitoring of blood sugar levels via a sensor placed under the skin, it tracks glucose levels throughout the day and night, and can alert users if their levels go too low or high.

5 ORAL GLUCOSE TOLERANCE TEST - OGTT is a two-hour test that measures how well the body processes sugar. The test checks blood glucose levels before and two hours after drinking a sweet drink.

KEY TAKEAWAY - The monitoring method for diabetes depends on individual needs, preferences, and the stage of diabetes management. Healthcare providers may recommend a combination of these methods for comprehensive care.