Glucose Meter Types

Diabetics are dependent on glucose meters, which measure their blood sugar levels so they may adjust their food and nutrition intake accordingly. The dozens of models and variations of glucose meters can make shopping for a new one a little overwhelming. Whether you are a first-time buyer or updating an existing model, educate yourself on the many options to make the most sensible choice for your needs and budget.

All-in-One

• All-in-One glucose meters are among the most common testers currently available, according to the My-Blood-Glucose-Meter website. They are small enough to fit in your pocket, purse or briefcase, allowing for more frequent monitoring. All-in-Ones cost about $30, and many models include preloaded test strips, require less blood for testing and have a detachable lancet.

Continuous Glucose Monitor

• A continuous glucose monitor, used by health-care professionals, is inserted into the skin around the belly in order to monitor glucose levels every 10 seconds, according to the My-Blood-Glucose-Meter website. The results are averaged over a pre-determined number of days through a pager-like device. Owning this device can cost about $1,000, but three-day and seven-day devices can cost anywhere from $30 to $60, which accommodates the user for a typical testing period.

Additional Models

• A combined glucose meter and blood pressure monitor costs about $60. There are glucose monitors that keep a log of test results before and after meals so the user can track the effects of their diet. Some monitors are specifically for the vision-impaired, and another model allows for painless, blood-free testing through the use of a wrist watch-like device that uses electrodes to test blood under the skin.