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Retatrutide and the Grey Market: Buyer Beware
This should go without saying, but the internet can be both an incredible resource and an extremely dangerous place for health and wellness information. At a time when obesity rates are soaring, mental and emotional stress are at an all-time high, and access to reputable healthcare can feel nearly impossible, many people are turning online in search of solutions. Unfortunately, that desperation leaves individuals vulnerable to the predatory promises of the wellness industry. The latest example is the buzz around retatrutide; or “Reta,” as it’s trending on TikTok. Like candy offered from the back of a van, it’s tempting, accessible,…
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The State of Wellness: Glucose Tracking Is Having a Moment
If you’re not already using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in your practice, it’s time to start. Catch up or risk getting left behind, because glucose tracking for metabolic health is having a moment. From diabetes prevention to metabolic optimization and athletic performance, CGM is everywhere. And it’s easier than ever to get started. With just a few clicks, direct-to-consumer CGMs like Abbott’s Lingo and Dexcom’s Stelo can be delivered straight to your doorstep, sometimes in less than 24 hours. I know, because I’ve tried them myself! Earlier this year, Abbott released a white paper on the state of wellness, exploring…
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Blood Sugar Trends: Defining What’s Truly “Normal”
With the rise of direct-to-consumer continuous glucose monitoring, there has been growing interest in understanding blood sugar trends. Reasons for CGM use include to improve metabolic health, prevent diabetes, enhance sports performance and recovery, or simply out of curiosity. Users can access real-time data, averages, trends, and insights at any time, day or night. With all this data, you might find yourself wondering: What do my numbers mean? Should I be concerned? Is this normal? All valid questions. Let’s explore the evidence behind defining “normal” blood sugar trends. Diagnosing Diabetes To define what is considered normal, it’s best to start…
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Is Glucose the New Gluten?
Recently, a news media outlet asked me whether glucose is becoming the new gluten, hinting at whether nutrition trends have led to an unjustified fear and preoccupation with blood sugar. The media outlet referenced the impact of social media influencers like #GlucoseGoddess and Signos Health, that promote a hyperawareness of blood glucose outside the setting of diabetes. Are they on to something? Should we be tracking our glucose in an effort to prevent diabetes and promote optimal health? Does Blood Glucose Matter Outside of Diabetes? Understanding the connection between blood sugar levels and our mood, energy, and food cravings can encourage healthier…
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At Home A1c Test Kits
An at-home A1c test kit can be a valuable metabolic screening tool for detecting elevated blood sugars due to insulin resistance, a key precursor of type 2 diabetes. These kits provide a convenient way to monitor and assess metabolic health status, especially for those who may be considered higher risk. What is an At Home A1c Test Kit? The A1c test provides a three-month average of blood sugar levels by measuring the amount of glucose molecules attached to hemoglobin proteins on red blood cells. To perform the test, a small blood sample from a finger stick is applied to a…
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Three Surprising Changes to the 2023 ADA Standards of Care
Here are three surprising changes to the 2023 ADA standards of care.
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Nutrition Strategies for Managing Postprandial Glucose
Managing blood sugars after meals can be tough. The rise is often steep and unexpected, leaving individuals scrambling to intervene—more rapid-acting insulin, a brisk walk, a liter of water—sometimes even a call to the doctors office.
