CGM for weight loss

Have you ever wondered how your body reacts to the food you eat or how your blood sugar levels change throughout the day? Is your blood sugar actually “crashing” when you’re hangry? Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) can give you a clear answer, and they’re becoming a popular tool for people trying to lose weight and live healthier lives.

 What is CGM?

 A CGM is a small, wearable device (often a biosensor place on your arm) that tracks your blood sugar levels in real-time and transmits data to your phone. Until recently these devices were only available to people with diabetes; now they are available over-the-counter and many are using them to help with weight loss.

 How CGM can help with weight loss

When it comes to weight loss, blood sugar levels play a huge role. If your blood sugar levels are constantly spiking and dropping, it can lead to cravings, overeating, and even weight gain. CGMs help you see exactly how your body responds to meals and snacks, allowing you to make better food choices.

While tracking your blood sugars you might notice that certain foods cause a big spike in blood sugar, which makes you feel hungry again soon after eating. Your dietitian can review your data and food choices to help you tweak your eating patterns for more stable blood sugars.

Getting started with CGM

Two of the most popular CGM brands for weight loss are Dexcom Stelo and Abbott Lingo.  A single sensor costs around $50.00 and can be worn for about 2 weeks.

 Next steps

Over-the-counter CGM can be a powerful tool for anyone looking to lose weight. By understanding how your body responds to food and exercise, you can make smarter choices that lead to better health and lasting weight loss.

If you’re ready to learn more about your blood sugar levels order your CGM (Stelo or Lingo) and set up an appointment with one of our Registered Dietitians today! 

Author: Jodi Serafin, RDN, CDCES