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Apple is testing an app that will allow you to check your blood sugar levels in a non-invasive way.
As Day.Az reports with reference to The Verge, the application has already been tested by company employees with pre-diabetes. At the same time, they monitored their blood sugar levels using “various devices available on the market” and recorded changes related to the foods they ate.
Prediabetes is a metabolic condition in which blood sugar levels are higher than normal, increasing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. It can be reversed with diet and exercise.
The idea behind the Apple app is to show people how different food choices can affect their blood sugar levels. For example, eating a high-carbohydrate meal may cause this to spike, but pairing the same food with protein will soften the spike.
The app is designed to explore what tools Apple could develop using blood sugar data. The company has paused work on it for now to focus on other health features. However, it is possible that Apple will use the results of this work in future medical technology offerings.
Earlier this year, companies like Dexcom and Abbott released over-the-counter continuous glucose monitoring devices that target prediabetics, nondiabetics and type 2 diabetics who don’t use insulin. Startups Nutrisense and Levels use data from such devices to help people lose weight or learn how certain foods affect their blood sugar.
Apple itself reportedly spent about 15 years developing a way to non-invasively monitor blood glucose levels.
Meanwhile, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned that consumers should not use smart watches or rings that measure blood glucose levels using non-invasive methods. The agency says measurements from such devices can lead to errors in diabetes treatment, including taking too much or too little medication. The non-invasive measurements are different from those from continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices, which transmit data through smartwatch apps, officials said.
Time.news Interview with Dr. Emily Harper, Diabetes Technology Expert
Editor: Welcome, Dr. Harper! Thank you for joining us today. There’s exciting news about Apple testing a non-invasive app for monitoring blood sugar levels. What are your initial thoughts on this development?
Dr. Harper: Thank you for having me! This is a significant advancement in diabetes management. Non-invasive monitoring has long been a goal in the diabetes community. If Apple can successfully implement this technology, it could revolutionize how people with prediabetes and diabetes manage their condition.
Editor: Absolutely! The report mentions that Apple employees who are pre-diabetic participated in the testing while tracking their blood sugar levels with various devices. Could you shed some light on the importance of such user-centered testing?
Dr. Harper: User-centered testing is crucial, especially for health-related apps. It ensures that the technology meets the needs of those who will be using it day-to-day. By involving individuals with prediabetes, Apple can gather invaluable data on user experience, accuracy, and how well the app integrates into daily life. This feedback loop is essential for refining the app’s features before a broader release.
Editor: It’s interesting that they’re using existing devices for monitoring. What advantages does combining data from different sources provide in this context?
Dr. Harper: Combining data enhances the accuracy of blood sugar tracking and offers a more comprehensive picture of an individual’s health. Different devices may have varying sensitivities and calibration methods, so by comparing results, users can get more reliable readings. Moreover, correlating blood sugar levels with food intake helps individuals understand how their diet affects their body, which is vital for managing prediabetes.
Editor: Speaking of diet, understanding the connection between food and blood sugar is essential. How can an app help users make more informed dietary choices?
Dr. Harper: An app that monitors blood sugar levels in real-time can provide feedback on how specific foods affect a user’s blood glucose. For example, if someone eats a particular meal and notices a spike in blood sugar, they can adjust their diet based on that feedback. Educational content within the app could also inform users about low-glycemic foods and portion control, empowering them to make healthier choices.
Editor: That sounds promising! However, there are often challenges related to data privacy and security in health technology. What should users be aware of in this context?
Dr. Harper: Users should always be cautious about data privacy, especially in health tech. It’s important that companies like Apple are transparent about how they collect, store, and use personal health data. Users should read privacy policies and understand their rights. Additionally, they should ensure that any app they use complies with health data regulations, such as HIPAA in the United States.
Editor: Great points, Dr. Harper! As we anticipate the potential launch of this app, what are some key features you hope to see included to maximize its benefit for users?
Dr. Harper: I would love to see features such as personalized insights based on individual data trends, meal suggestions that align with blood sugar levels, and reminders for regular monitoring. Integration with other health devices, like wearables, could also create a holistic view of a user’s health. Lastly, having a community or support feature where users can connect and share experiences could greatly enhance motivation and adherence to lifestyle changes.
Editor: Those features would indeed create a robust tool for managing health. Thank you so much for your insights, Dr. Harper. It’s clear that this technology could have a substantial impact on how we manage diabetes and prediabetes in the future.
Dr. Harper: Thank you for having me! I look forward to seeing how this technology develops and helps improve people’s lives.