CGM – Is it for me?: HELP from Jane RD

By Jane Connell, RD • June 8, 2023

Registered Dietitian and guest contributor finishes her series on CGMs

It can take several months of diet and lifestyle changes to see improvement in average blood sugar levels and overall health.

Just like we can’t see our muscles grow after one day at the gym, neither can we see what’s going on inside our bodies as cells get better at converting fat and glucose to energy.

The most effective method is to take baby steps towards healthier habits. It’s similar to forging a new path through the forest. At first, it’s very difficult breaking through the underbrush and knowing which direction to go. Eventually, a well-worn path is made, and it becomes easy. Your body becomes adapted and more efficient with time.

Is using a CGM right for me?

Yes, if any of the following apply to you:

  • You are struggling to achieve/maintain a healthy weight
  • You feel bogged down with low energy and brain fog
  • You are looking for tools to help you improve your physical and mental health
  • You want to prevent/reverse diabetes and other health conditions
  • You’re not sure which diet recommendations to follow
  • You tend to dismiss aches/pains/issues as “it just comes with age”

Using a CGM allows you to determine how your diet and lifestyle affects YOU. From there you can learn how to personalize your diet and lifestyle in order to optimize how you feel each day, both physically and mentally.

How do I get started using a CGM?

If you'e a member of HELPcare Clinic, you can ask your provider to write a prescription for a CGM. It’s invaluable to have the support of a personal coach and/or an on-line platform. The path I got started on was with Levels Health, although there are a handful of other platforms (Nutrisense, Veri Signos, Super Sapiens, etc.). With Levels Health:

  • You receive a one month supply of CGMs in the mail for $199.
  • You have access to the Levels app which is a user-friendly platform that helps you interpret the data from your CGM device to better understand the effects of your lifestyle choices on your blood sugar levels. One year subscription is $199.

Key Takeaway

Using a CGM, even for a few weeks, can give you invaluable objective data that can empower you to make the food and lifestyle choices that work best for you.

What is your story?

Have you used a CGM? Please share your experience in the comments!

Jane Connell, RD

Coach Jane is a licensed, registered dietitian living in Camas, WA. She has been doing remote health coaching for the past 14 years through Optum in Eden Prairie, MN. She has joined the HELPcare coaching staff and will be coaching members through the HELPcare Challenge program.
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