What are the benefits of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) for people with type 2 diabetes who are on insulin?

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) can be very beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes who are on insulin. CGM devices continuously track blood sugar levels throughout the day and night, providing real-time data without the need for frequent finger pricks. Studies have shown that using CGM can lead to lower A1C levels, which is a measure of average blood sugar over three months. For example, one study found that people using CGM had an average A1C level of 8% compared to 8.4% for those using traditional blood glucose monitors. Another study showed that CGM users had a drop in A1C from 8.2% to 7.64% over a year, while non-users saw a much smaller decrease. CGM also helps in reducing episodes of dangerously high or low blood sugar levels, known as hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia, respectively. This is particularly important for people on insulin, as they need to adjust their doses based on their blood sugar levels. CGM provides continuous feedback, helping users make better dietary and exercise choices. It can also alert users to blood sugar fluctuations they might not otherwise notice, making it easier to manage their condition effectively. Overall, CGM offers a more comprehensive and convenient way to monitor and manage blood sugar levels, leading to better health outcomes for people with type 2 diabetes on insulin.