On the tails of is “Glucose The New Gluten” is the realm of glucose monitoring and hacking and understanding why it is crucial for optimizing health and well-being.
Firstly, what exactly do we mean by “hacking” glucose? In simple terms, it involves employing strategic interventions to manipulate and regulate glucose levels in the body. This can encompass dietary adjustments (less carbs and refined sugars), lifestyle modifications (exercise and sleep), and leveraging technology to achieve optimal glucose control.
Proper monitoring is the cornerstone of effective glucose hacking. Gone are the days of sporadic finger-prick tests; we now have access to continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices that provide real-time insights into glucose fluctuations. The great news is that on March 5th, 2024 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first over-the-counter CGM, initially intended for people who have type 2 diabetes the device can also be used by people without diabetes who want to track the effect their diet and physical activity have on their blood glucose levels. These small wearable sensors discreetly track glucose levels throughout the day, offering invaluable data to guide dietary and lifestyle choices. Brands such as Abbott’s FreeStyle Libre and Dexcom’s G6 are widely popular for their reliability and ease of use. I’m amazed how with a touch of a button using an app you can access the data at any time of day and see how and when the spikes are happening in real time.
So why is hacking glucose so pivotal for our health and well-being? The answer lies in the profound impact that glucose levels have on our physiological functioning. By maintaining stable glucose levels, we can mitigate energy crashes, enhance cognitive function, and promote sustained weight management. Achieving optimal glucose control can unlock your body’s potential for peak performance and living healthier.