I'm NOT Diabetic. I Wore a CGM. Here's What I Learned about My Blood Sugar

CGM stands for, continuous glucose monitor, and that is exactly what this little device from Levels does when you stick it on your skin. It continually monitors your glucose (or sugar) level.

If you have diabetes, you may already be in love with CGMs because they replace the finger pricks that used to be required to track your blood sugar at home. If you're not diabetic, like me, a CGM can teach you so much about how your unique body is handling your lifestyle choices and the foods you eat. No more guesswork, lots of fun revelations. Let's go over what I learned and how Levels is making it possible for everyone, including you, to get one.

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Disclaimer: Dr. Becky Gillaspy, DC received her Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic in 1991. Her use of “doctor” or “Dr.” in relation to herself solely refers to that degree. Dr. Gillaspy was a licensed chiropractor in Pennsylvania, but she no longer practices chiropractic in any state and does not see patients. This video is for general informational purposes only. It should not be used to self-diagnose and it is not a substitute for a medical exam, cure, treatment, diagnosis, and prescription or recommendation. It does not create a doctor-patient relationship between Dr. Gillaspy and you. You should not make any change in your health regimen or diet before first consulting a physician and obtaining a medical exam, diagnosis, and recommendation. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Dr Becky Fitness LLC and Dr. Rebecca Gillaspy, D.C. are not liable or responsible for any advice, course of treatment, diagnosis or any conclusions drawn, services or product you obtain through this video or site.

[madeleine]

Sadly My physician won't write a prescription for a CGM for me. I asked her because I am prediabetic. She said you have to be referred to an endocrinologist and they have to decide if you need one. We all need one! They don't want preventative care. You have to wait till you are a full blown diabetic. CRAZY! You might want to mention in video a prescription is necessary.

[markallen]

Keep trying to get that CGM. It has helped me immensely. . Using that information gained from understanding what spikes your blood. I dropped my A1C from 10 to 6.6.

[hmlab]

Type 2 Diabetic here... I had hoped to join a trial for an Endocrinologist "implanted monitor"! Loved the concept of knowing exactly what foods cause my worst spikes without having to deal with a "patch" on my arm and PRICKS. Alas, it was not to be! I did, however, "reverse" diabetes on the keto diet... thanks to your advice and that of the challenges from YouTuber "BEAT DIABETES!".

[kenteno]

I'm 74 yrs t2d 12yrs. Started a1c 14, afternoon glucose was 486 first time testing. I also found Beat Diabetes, started timed eating, no carbs no sugar. Now 30 day, all times Average is 97.
I eat egg omelets with jalapeños and onions with cheese, bacon and recently pork belly. Nuts and pepper jack cheese cubes. Not suffering at all .

[stoptheinsanity]

While their device ($199) is cheaper than some other compatible options, the fact that you have to pay an additional $199 just to use the software makes it more expensive than competitors. Hopefully in the future these will be much more affordable and available over the counter.

[lynnecarville]

Your voice and positivity is so rewarding. Thank you . X

[melanieb]

In Australia anyone can buy a CGM and sensor online, no script etc needed. The scanner is about $100 but it's free (I believe) if you just use the app on your phone. A sensor is $100 for 14 days. The brand is Libre. Another reason to be grateful to be Australian :)

[olderthandadirt]

Ahh socialised health care. As a pre diabetic I think this would help prevent me from becoming diabetic. but I can only get one when I become a full blown diabetic. I need to get worse to get better.

[MOAB-UT]

Very smart move. I test my sugars to (not using CGM.) People say, "You are NOT diabetic." I say exactly right!

[Cinderella]

I’ve been using Levels CGM for almost a year. I have learned so much about my body. Thanks for all your help and information.

[edanagorham]

Good general info on CGMs. I’m definitely gonna get one as I’m insulin resistant, Levels not available in my country though. One issue with the message - high energy exercise is no good for everyone’s metabolism. People with high cortisol or hypothyroidism generally see increased fat retention with extreme exercising. The stress of high intensity can cause sharp cortisol spikes which increase insulin resistance and fat retention.

[peterthomas]

My God. If ever there was an ad-sponsored video, this is it.

[emmax]

Thanks for making a video on this particular trend that is going on right now, Dr. Becky. I’ve been thinking about it for months (trying to decide if I should get it and if so, which brand) and watching you promote it was what I needed to finally do it☺️

[stevec]

A CGM, any CGM is cost prohibitive for any poor person who is not diabetic and whose insurance will not pay for one. I am both poor and retired and non-diabetic so my insurance will not cover the cost of a CGM. It's like the recommendation to only eat grass fed beef & organic pasture eggs--great if you can afford it, otherwise you're out of luck.

[m-hadji]

You’re absolutely right. I am diabetic type 2 and I am definitely in love with my CGM. Although I have Dexcome and my insurance pays for it. It changed my life and finally after 26 years fighting with diabetes I am seeing some signs of victory. It’s a must for people with diabetes. I’m hoping it becomes more affordable. In long run it’s cheaper than being blind or losing kidney but our lovely healthcare system don’t pay for preventative actions. If you have diabetes sell your car and buy a CGM if you wanna live.
By the way Level is pricey and you should look for other available options although their service is appreciated.

[raytribble]

I just replaced my first CGM and I love this device. I am completely aware of how various foods affect my body and I eat very healthy. However I may be 63, but I am very active. Kayak, biking, walking and I live in the country and there is always something to do.
I highly encourage any diabetic to consider using a CGM. I was surprised about some food impacts I have experienced and the lag time of both foods and NPT protein based insulin on my glucose. Your video is fantastic by the way and I shared it will all of my type 2 friends… only because I do not know any type 1’s.. thank you and you gained another subscriber.

[evanleebodies]

This is a truly brilliant device, the only downside is that it is out of financial reach for the people who need it isn't that always the case for those on a limited budget.

[Starfish]

If only the insurance companies would pay for these expensive devices, for everyone who’s prediabetic, they would save billions of dollars down the road

[MR-rjqw]

Did the same thing, it is not too expensive over here, about 70€ for 2 weeks. The results were sobering. I am not even sure anymore that I am not diabetic (at 39 and less than 120 pounds). I learned that I need to change my eating habits… but eating the sugary food that I have already stored will take forever even if I don‘t buy more.

[porscheoscar]

2 years ago I decided to chart my numbers using a simple finger stick kit for about $30. First was to check my fasting blood sugar as soon as I woke up. Then I checked it again at noon while still fasting. That established my lowest or baseline. I was about 30 pounds overweight after a back injury and depression eating. Once I got out of the rut I couldn't shake the weight despite daily exercise of up to an hour and a fairly healthy diet where I dont consume alcohol nor eat much fried food. Just the usual chicken and fish. The best I did counting calories (portion control) and increasing my exercise was 5 pounds.

Then i decided to adjust my diet to stay at my fasting blood sugar as long as possible during daylight hours. What was interesting was that I completely dispensed with exercise and portion control and calorie counting. I wanted to make it the diet that would work for the world's laziest man who likes to eat. 😅
So in the morning I would make this giant breakfast of an enormous omelet with extra egg whites added to the cracked free range egg. I added grilled diced chicken. Two fist fulls of pre chopped broccoli. And cheese that wasnt overly processed. I was a fan of Buffala back when it was still cheap. I would season generously with garlic, onion, cumin, cilantro and herbs d'province. I would keep a bowl of Bush's seasoned black beans mixed with organic lentins (with more seasoning, heavy on the cumin and smoked paprika). And one small portion of fruit (at least 100 mcg of Vitamin C). For lunch another big portion meal of wild fish or more chicken, whatever beans you're in to, a whole avocado and air fryer baked vegetables like brussel sprouts rolled in soy sauce, garlic powder, dijon mustard and keto syrup. The point of these two meals is to get 70% of your protein in by 2pm when you are the most alert. Remembering I did zero exercise to mirror the tendencies of the average man. I'd have another small portion of fruit usually wild blueberries with whipped cream and these keto muffins or pancakes made from almond flour, chocolate humus, organic peanut butter.
You get the point. Once a week I'd an actual wheat or barley based flour like pizza or sandwich.

The blood sugar readings were done 30 minutes after a meal. And once an hour thereafter until I was back at the fasting sugar. Depending on what I ate I started to see which foods lingered the longest and which returned my blood sugar back to the fasting level within 2 hours or less. There wasnt much variation for me among low carb foods. Also I'd check blood sugar after a precisely 1 mile walk immediately after a meal at a walking pace necessary to raise my heart rate slightly. Smart watch or activity bracelet very useful here. The blood sugar spike was always lower after a walk than just plopping down on the sofa after a meal. If I was on the run I'd eat and then plan my shopping trip right after to walk down the blood sugar spike. Never the meal after the shopping. On the go meals were often grilled chicken strips, a big bottle of Perrier or Pellegrino and beans if they had it. Or string cheese which are always in the fridge at quick convenience stores or gas stations. And a bag of nuts. Also helpful before you leave the house eat a spoonful of organic peanut butter and a shot of whipped cream washed down with unsweetened vanilla almond milk. Takes 2 seconds but keeps the blood sugar drop that makes you hangry and prone to cheat.

The bottom line conclusion was if I kept blood sugar within 20% of my fasting blood sugar for at least 10 waking hours by bedtime my metabolism would make the "switch" to fat burning while I slept. The first weeked I lost 3 pounds. Then 1 pound per week... every week. It was so easy in that I was eating way more volume and hadn't done a lick of exercise. And my taste buds started changing in that a little bit of something sweet tasted very sweet. I also cut out all the artificial sugars and diet drinks which I think were spiking my blood sugar. So sparkling waters lemon and lime juice and a small squirt of those Stevia based flavor drink drops like Stur.

6 month update:
i have completely reversed my elevated liver enzymes to within the reference range. my internist calculated that my cirosis risk was reduced to below one percent. my total cholesterol is below 200. they still put me on a low dose statin and it further reduced my score to 130. i'm calling this the half plate rule. half the pan you cook or plate you prepare should be vegetables. lean on broccoli or cauliflower as the base, add some onions red or white or both, generous garlic, and yellow peppers which have the highest vitamin c levels of any widely available plant. the other half should be a couple of spoons of starch like rice or potatoes if it scratches that itch for a carb craving. increase your legumes and lentils/pulses bit by bit until you can comfortably tolerate a generous serving of this protein source and reduce your animal protein source. Saturdated fats are a contributor to metabolic syndrome and insulin ressistance in certain people much like refined carbs and refined sugars. Fiber be it vegetables or beans should be doing the heavy lifting to feed your gut bacteria and keep your insulin levels as static as possible. unless you have thyroid condition this should improve your bloodwork across the board in a matter of months. And obviously avoid alcohol and limit to just special ocassions.