Tech Watch: The Latest in Diabetes Tech News

With so many things happening in the diabetes tech world, it can be hard to keep up. Stay up to date here with the latest diabetes tech news and alerts.

FDA Clears Dexcom's G7 15 Day for Adults


Dexcom's next-generation G7 15 Day continuous glucose monitor has been approved by the FDA for people with diabetes ages 18 and older. The company said the CGM system should be available in the second half of 2025.



In a study presented at the ATTD 2025 conference in March, the G7 15 Day was shown to be slightly more accurate than the current G7. The device looks the same, uses the same receiver and should have the same monthly cost and copay as the company's 10-day G7 CGM. However, a new prescription will be required to purchase it.


By launch, the longer-lasting CGM should integrate with the AID systems that use the current G7, Dexcom said, such as the iLet Bionic Pancreas, Omnipod 5, and Tandem t:slim X2 and Mobi. Work is still being done to ensure the Dexcom G7 15 can be used by children, Dexcom added. The current G7 CGM is FDA cleared for those 2 years and older.

Virtual Programs Help Lower Blood Sugar


People with type 2 diabetes in a recent study saw their A1C drop significantly (on average from 8.9% to 7.9%) using different online tools to help manage their care. And most participants in the trial, conducted at the Texas A&M University School of Public Health, stuck with the program for its entire 6-month run. 



One strategy involved a virtual, self-paced class that included one-on-one coaching sessions with a nurse or dietitian. Another used a smartphone app with self-guided education and a chat feature to connect with a diabetes coach. The third combined both strategies. All three were found to be similarly effective. The study included people with type 2 from rural and urban areas in Texas. 


The results suggest that varied online education and personal coaching can help significantly lower average blood sugar levels, reducing the risk for short and long-term health issues related to diabetes. 

AID Use in Kids Can Help Reduce Family Stress


Dr. Carine de Beaufort, a pediatric endocrinologist at the Centre Hospitalier du Luxembourg, at ATTD 2025 in Amsterdam presented data from multiple studies showing how automated insulin delivery systems (AID) improve glycemic control while reducing stress and worry related to diabetes management that affects an entire family.



"Let life be less about diabetes and more about life," de Beaufort said, pointing to research on how AID systems alleviate diabetes burden by automating many of the time consuming aspects of carb counting and blood sugar control.


Young children using the CamAPS system in Europe over 18 months, she said, consistently reported better sleep, and parents spent less time worrying about their child's blood sugar while they slept. In another study, the Omnipod 5 AID system was shown to be safe and effective at improving blood sugar control and reducing hypoglycemia in children as young as 2 years old.



These results are part of the reason de Beaufort supports the use of AID systems in children younger than 6 from the time of diagnosis, she said.


"Parents are more at ease, knowing it works well," she said. "And children are able to play and sleep without being interrupted."


Dexcom Receives Warning From FDA for Manufacturing Issues


Dexcom recently received a warning letter from the FDA after inspections of their CGM manufacturing facilities in San Diego, California, and Mesa, Arizona in 2024. The FDA issued the letter due to “non-conformities in manufacturing processes and quality management systems” and cited deficiencies in Dexcom’s response letters to the FDA.



The full details behind the manufacturing issues aren’t yet known, but Dexcom has not been asked to recall any products or halt manufacturing or distribution of their CGM products. The warning letter also hasn’t impacted applying for clearance for any new products, including the 15-day Dexcom G7, which is currently under review by the FDA. Dexcom has acknowledged the seriousness of the warning and is working on preparing a written response; until the issues cited by the FDA are resolved, Dexcom could face additional regulatory or legal action. 


Though Dexcom CGM products aren’t said to be affected, it’s always a good idea to double (maybe even triple) check your devices are working as they should. See our resource guide here for ensuring you receive critical blood sugar alerts, as well as common CGM hang-ups and how to get around them.

Medtronic Issues Medical Device Correction for InPen

Medtronic has issued a medical device correction for certain InPen smart insulin pens due to an assembly issue. Some InPens from specific lots may have defects that cause difficulty in either inserting the insulin cartridge into the holder or removing the cartridge holder from the pen. 


If excessive force is required to remove the cartridge holder, or if the insulin cartridge is not fitting into the cartridge holder, Medtronic advises that the InPen should not be used. 



To find out if your InPen is impacted, check the lot number and see if it’s listed on Medtronic’s site here. If your InPen is affected, call 1-800-646-4633 (option 1) or visit this website to request a replacement. Affected InPens should not be used. 

Tandem's AID Tech Cleared for Type 2 Diabetes


This spring, people with type 2 diabetes will have more choices when starting with an automated insulin delivery system. The FDA recently cleared Tandem's next-generation Control-IQ+ AID technology for people with type 2 who are 18 years and older.

The AID systems, which use the t:slim X2 and Tandem Mobi insulin pumps, had previously only been available to people with type 1 diabetes for ages 6 years and older.



The new Control-IQ+ algorithm should also be available for current users of Tandem AID systems in March. Improvements in the latest version of the algorithm are expected to include new capabilities for corrective boluses, setting temporary basal rates, and extended boluses.


The company plans to release results from a study of 319 type 2 participants who used the t:slim X2 pump for automated insulin delivery, at the upcoming International Conference on Advanced Technologies & Treatments for Diabetes in Amsterdam, in March.


The Tandem AID systems join Insulet's Omnipod 5, which is also approved for use in type 2 for people who are 18 years or older.

Free Exercise App Sweats the Details


People with diabetes know exercise can be a challenge. Certain aerobic activities, like walking, biking, or swimming, can be a great way to lower blood sugar. However, the effects of exercise can be unpredictable, sometimes requiring fast-acting sugar to correct hypoglycemia. On the flip side, other forms of physical activity like anaerobic exercise (weight lifting, sprinting, and interval training) can initially cause blood sugar to rise. These blood sugar variations – and chasing workouts with calories – can lead to frustration.



A free app called Enhance-d aims to make exercise while managing type 1 and type 2 diabetes easier. Available for iPhone and Android, the app pulls health-related diabetes data into one place through a series of colorful graphs.

The app also integrates data from wearable devices that track fitness, like those from Fitbit and Garmin, or the Oura ring, which can record heart rate, sleep quality, and stress data. The Enhance-d app pulls data from these various health devices and apps and produces reports showing how different physical activity, meals, insulin doses, sleep patterns, and other factors affect time in range


These reports and related analyses provided by the app can also be shared with a healthcare provider to identify trends. That data could potentially help inform modifications to exercise intensity or oth

Watch for Insulin Pump Over-and-Under Dosing When Flying


As diaTribe reported in September, changes in cabin pressure during air travel can cause insulin pumps to over and under-deliver about half a unit of insulin during takeoffs and landings. 



After receiving reports about the issue and confirming during tests, Medtronic recently issued a safety alert for users of the company's insulin pumps to monitor their glucose when flying. The following pumps were listed in the alert: Paradigm, MiniMed 630G, MiniMed 670G, MiniMed 770G, and MiniMed 780G.


Researchers at the 2024 EASD conference showed insulin pumps over-delivered 0.6 units of insulin during tests that simulated ascent. During descents, the pumps under-delivered 0.5 units. The researchers tested pumps from Medtronic, Insulet, and Tandem.


They found that the drop in cabin pressure as the plane ascends can cause bubbles in the cartridge, which may lead to a small amount of insulin being delivered unintentionally. Then on descent, a small reduction in insulin delivery can occur, which could cause an increase in blood sugar. 


To avoid these issues, the researchers recommended disconnecting the pump just before takeoff and reconnecting 20 minutes later. Once cruising altitude is reached, the researchers suggested users remove any bubbles from the cartridge as they would during filling or manually priming the pump. For pumps that can't be disconnected, like the Omnipod, eating a very small snack if needed during takeoff could help. On landing, eat another small snack followed by a bolus to avoid a rise in blood sugar.

FDA Issues Warning About Missed Diabetes Device Alerts


The FDA has issued a warning that users of continuous glucose monitors have reported missing critical smartphone alerts. The agency is recommending CGM users check their systems to make sure they can hear the alarms, especially after settings changes and operating system upgrades. 



Users have reported missed urgent alerts of low and high blood sugar when they thought their phones were set correctly to deliver alarms. 


“Even if configured correctly, certain hardware or software changes can interrupt the expected operation of these critical devices, which can lead to patient harm if undetected,” said Courtney Lias, director of the Office of In Vitro Diagnostic Products in the FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health, in the announcement. 


The FDA reported missed alerts may have contributed to serious harm, in some cases fatal, including hypoglycemia, severe hyperglycemia, and diabetic ketoacidosis.

 

Reports to the FDA involved multiple devices, with users reporting missed alerts at night, while driving, and while wearing headphones. In some cases, users reported problems with CGM apps installed on operating systems and smartphone devices that weren't supported by the manufacturer. In other cases, the devices were set in do-not-disturb or focus mode, or were in sleep mode for an extended period of time.


The FDA is recommending users take steps to make sure their CGM alerts are working as expected:

  • Turn off automatic operating system upgrades, and confirm with the device manufacturer that any operating system upgrades are compatible with the current version of the device apps before installing.
  • You may need to wait to install operating system upgrades until the device manufacturer releases a compatible version of the app.
  • Note that connecting to accessories, such as wireless headphones or car audio systems, may lower the volume of alerts, or the alerts may not work at all.
  • Check smartphone alerts at least once a month to confirm they're working as intended.
  • Follow the instructions from the device manufacturer on installing, setting up, and updating medical apps.
  • If alerts are not being delivered as expected, contact technical support for the device.
  • Report any unresolved problems with diabetes devices to the FDA.


The FDA said it is working with device manufacturers to ensure that safety alerts are carefully tested before being used by people with diabetes. The agency also said it will continue working with device makers to ensure alerts are continuously evaluated, with necessary updates quickly communicated to users.

ADA Releases New Guide for Automated Insulin Delivery


The American Diabetes Association recently published new guidelines for automated insulin delivery (AID). While the guide is meant for healthcare providers, it provides practical tips and considerations that would benefit anyone considering adopting the technology. 


For example, the guide recommends setting aside plenty of time for the learning curve associated with starting a new AID system (so no imminent vacations, for example) and recognizing that blood sugar goals won't be reached overnight. Also covered is how to choose a system, including weighing options like the size of the pump or if it uses tubing. The guide also recommends considering whether the user would prefer a simpler device, with less control of some settings, or one that might take more time to learn (and requires more input, like carb counting) but is likely to achieve better time in range



The ADA document also offers AID system pros and cons. For example, smartphone control (available with some devices) is listed as a pro, since it allows discrete insulin dosing and adjustments. Cons include having the tech attached to your body and equipment failures (the guide recommends keeping nearby backups of insulin and infusion sets or pens/vials.) Read all the recommendations, including considerations regarding mental health.

Beta Bionics Plans Tubeless Patch Pump 


Diabetes technology maker Beta Bionics is developing a tubeless patch pump they plan to launch in 2027 as part of its automated delivery system, the iLet Bionic Pancreas



The company reported the device has two parts. One reusable component holds the electronics that operate the device and motor. A second disposable part includes an adhesive patch, insulin reservoir, insertion device, and the cannula used to deliver insulin.


Patch pumps use an adhesive to adhere to the skin directly. Currently, the Omnipod is the only tubeless patch pump for use in people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Small pumps like the Tandem Mobi and upcoming twiist pump use a thin tube and cannula to deliver insulin. These small devices can be inserted into a sleeve with adhesive on the back that sticks to the skin, resembling a patch pump. 


Beta Bionics said the pump is planned for use in people with type 1 diabetes and later will expand its use for people with type 2. The company also reported it is continuing work on an AID system that would, in addition to using insulin to lower blood sugar, also contain glucagon to raise blood sugar. Research is being conducted into dual-hormone systems, but none are available yet for people with diabetes.

Smart Pen Cap Tracks Doses and Helps Insulin Keep Its Cool


At the CES technology conference in Las Vegas this month, a company called TempraMed demonstrated its upcoming VIVI Cap Smart device that protects insulin from extreme temperatures and tracks doses via smartphone. 



When exposed to heat, insulin can break down and lose its effectiveness. The FDA says when not stored in a refrigerator, insulin is safe to use for about a month at 59-86 degrees Fahrenheit. Insulin at 98.6 degrees or higher should be tossed out, and insulin that has frozen should not be used.   


The VIVI Cap has a layer of thermal insulation and an additional layer of material that absorbs heat – keeping it away from the insulin. This capability reactivates as the temperature cools. 


A temperature sensor glows green when pressed if insulin is in a safe range. The company says in its tests the device kept the insulin in a pen safe to use in 100-degree heat for five days.


The VIVI Cap Smart will be available in August. Pricing hasn't yet been announced. The current VIVI Cap (with dose tracking) sells now for $149, however, and the company's website offers a pre-order offer for the new smart device at a discount. The company is also developing a protective device for insulin vials.


Another option for keeping insulin cool are the FRÍO cooling cases ($27 to $39). Read more in our holiday gift guide for people with diabetes. 

Dexcom Fixes G7 App for International Travelers


Dexcom has released an upgrade to its G7 app for iPhones and Androids, which fixes an issue that kept some users from being able to install the app. When traveling outside their home country, users sometimes found they could not install or reinstall the app.


Version 2.6 of the app fixes the problem, allowing users to uninstall and install the G7 app when abroad. "The download is tied to your App Store or Google account's country settings, which don't change when you travel," according to the company. However, the user must have first installed the app for the first time in their country of residence. 



Those planning to travel internationally are advised to make sure the app is installed and updated to the latest version before going abroad.

Omnipod 5 Integrates Freestyle Libre 2 Plus CGM


The Omnipod 5 automated insulin delivery system now works with Abbott’s FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus continuous glucose monitor, Insulet announced this week.



Adding compatibility for the 15-day CGM may appeal to people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes who use Omnipod insulin pumps and prefer Freestyle Libre CGM sensors.


Insulet's Omnipod 5 joins the Tandem t:slim X2 (Freestyle Libre 2 and Dexcom G6/G7) and Beta Bionics’ iLet (Dexcom G6/G7 and Freestyle Libre 3) in supporting both Abbott and Dexcom CGMs.


The Omnipod 5 is a tubeless, waterproof patch pump that can be worn for three days. The pod has an integrated algorithm that can adjust insulin doses based on blood sugar levels every five minutes. The system costs about $50 per month for users with insurance or about $600 without.


Users in the U.K. and Netherlands have had access to the Omnipod 5 and Libre 2 Plus integration since June. More than six million people now use Freestyle Libre sensors worldwide.

New Virtual Endo Service Now Available

Health tech company eddii recently launched a service for virtual endocrinology care, which currently offers online visits with pediatric endocrinologists in 40 states and virtual care for adults with diabetes in eight states (see their coverage map).



This year, the company plans to expand the service to serve more children and adults with diabetes. 

Users of the app can book appointments, see licensed endocrinologists, and get prescription refills. Users will typically get an appointment for online care within two days, the company said. The quick turnaround could be helpful for people with acute needs like sick-day guidance or who need a prescription refill. 


A rapid self-assessment feature helps people decide if they need an appointment. "It tells them whether they need to seek immediate help, should book an appointment with a provider, or just have to wait a few hours and keep an eye on their symptoms," said James Northcutt, chief marketing officer at eddii.


The app's other features aim to make diabetes management more engaging. The service takes CGM readings from a Dexcom continuous glucose monitor and incorporates them into multiple games to encourage improvements in time in range. The app also uses quizzes to engage users around diabetes trivia and education. 


A chatbot feature focused on mental health around diabetes offers conversations and health tips. Users can also set up phone calls for alerts when blood sugar is high or low, for up to five people, such as friends, loved ones, or caregivers.

Users can download the app on the Apple App Store or the Google Play store for Android. The eddii app joins the growing list of virtual care platforms to help with diabetes management and improve time in range.

Medtronic's Smart Pen App Gets the Go-Ahead in the US


The FDA recently cleared the app for Medtronic's InPen, a smart device used for multiple daily injections (MDI). The clearance will allow Medtronic to begin a limited release of its smart MDI system, with broader commercial availability to be announced later.


The InPen system allows users to calculate and track their insulin doses, which will help avoid missed doses. The pen connects via Bluetooth to the company's Simplera CGM, which records blood sugar levels every five minutes.



The InPen app can take a blood sugar reading from the Simplera CGM or blood glucose meter and calculate a premeal dose or correction, if necessary, based on the glucose reading, active insulin, and carbs entered before a meal.


The reusable pen lasts for one year without a need to charge. The InPen also monitors insulin temperature to maintain its effectiveness. Medtronic says most people with insurance will pay about $35 for an InPen per year. The full price without insurance is $549.


Medtronic has aimed the smart insulin pen at those who use multiple daily injections because of cost or personal choice. The InPen may also provide a path for those who want to transition from MDI to an AID system.

Omnipod 5 App for iPhone Now Available 

The iPhone app for the Omnipod 5 is now available for download in the Apple App Store. The new software is an upgrade for Insulet Omnipod 5 users who will now be able to carry one less device, called the controller, to operate the automated insulin delivery system.


"With the iPhone app, a user can deliver a bolus of insulin for a meal, change a pod, and check CGM values and trends," said Eric Benjamin, Insulet’s executive vice president and chief product and customer experience officer. 


Also new is a "custom foods" feature that allows users to save frequent meals to reduce manual carb counting. To use the app, Omnipod 5 users will need iOS 17 or 18 and a Dexcom G6 continuous glucose monitor. 



The iPhone version joins Insulet's Android app that was released last May. 

Smart Ring Oura and Dexcom Pair for Health Tracking

Dexcom and smart ring maker Oura have announced plans to integrate continuous glucose monitoring with health and fitness data. The readings will appear in the Oura and Dexcom apps to shed light on how sleep, stress, vital signs, and other factors affect blood sugar levels.



The Oura ring is worn on your finger and tracks a wide range of health and fitness data, including motion, heart rate, and heart rate variability, which the company uses to track sleep quality and measures. The ring also measures body temperature and motion, which combined with heart data, helps monitor stress levels. The company says temperature can also be used to track menstrual cycles, which can impact glucose levels.


The initial app with integrated data from the ring and CGM is planned for the first half of 2025. The Oura ring sells for between $299 and $449 (depending on the style). 

Tidepool Will Support Abbott's Freestyle Libre CGM Devices

Software company Tidepool announced Monday that it will integrate data from Abbott's FreeStyle Libre continuous glucose monitors (CGM) into Tidepool+, an online tool for viewing data on a wide range of diabetes devices. 



Tidepool+ provides a way for users of diabetes tech to see insulin pump, CGM, and glucometer data in one place. That data can then be easily shared with healthcare providers. 


Blood sugar readings and treatment information can be uploaded to Tidepool+ from supported devices and the Tidepool Mobile app. Users can also manually upload data from other devices. Now Abbott’s FreeStyle Libre has been added to the list, allowing users to seamlessly integrate their Libre data into the Tidepool+ online tool.


No timing has been announced yet for when FreeStyle Libre CGM data will be able to be integrated into Tidepool+.

New Bionic Pancreas App Released  

Beta Bionics, manufacturer of the iLet Bionic Pancreas automated insulin delivery (AID) system, recently introduced the Bionic Circle app, which allows up to 10 people to remotely follow a user's blood sugar, meal, and dosing data. An iPhone version was released last month and the app is now available for Android smartphone users. 



The Bionic Circle App sends data from the iLet AID system to the cloud, which can then be viewed by those who accept an invitation to use the app on their phone. The app then remotely displays CGM readings, meal announcements, insulin doses, and alerts for high and low blood sugar.


The app's release for Android will be especially helpful for parents, caregivers, and loved ones who want to see iLet pump and CGM data regardless of whether they're using an iPhone or Android device. The free app can be downloaded from the Apple App store or Google Play.

Medtronic Recalls Insulin Pumps Due to Battery Issue

Medtronic has issued a voluntary recall of MiniMed 600 or 700 series insulin pumps due to a battery issue that may occur when devices are dropped or receive a jarring impact. 


Pumps dropped just once could provide a shorter-than-expected battery life, even after the battery is replaced. A damaged pump could fail to alert the user with the typical amount of battery life remaining, which could stop insulin delivery prematurely. If insulin delivery is stopped unexpectedly, hyperglycemia or diabetic ketoacidosis could result. 


Users are advised to replace the battery as soon as the "low battery pump" alarm sounds. Medtronic also recommends that MiniMed pump users carry extra AA batteries with a full charge. If you’re experiencing significantly low battery life, contact Medtronic to see if a new pump is needed. The company said it would replace any pump experiencing the issue at no charge. 


Customers in the U.S. can call the Medtronic support line 24 hours a day at 1-800-378-2292. Customers outside the U.S. should use the Medtronic international contacts page.

Healthy Bites

April 10, 2025
Type 2 diabetes, a condition marked by chronically high blood sugar levels, is a leading driver of metabolic disease in America. While conventional medical advice recommends taking medications to control blood sugar levels, this is only a temporary measure at best.  Diabetes is compounded by several factors, and recent research notes that nutritional deficiencies is a commonly overlooked aspect, and that when these deficiencies are addressed, managing and controlling this disease becomes easier.
March 24, 2025
Telemedicine can make diabetes care less expensive and easier to access, but it may not always be a suitable replacement for an in-person visit. Learn what happens during a telehealth visit and see if you could benefit from using telemedicine for your diabetes care. The pandemic upended a lot about life as we knew it. Notably, it was responsible for a 63-fold increase in telehealth visits . For people managing diabetes, however, having a doctor visit over video brings up a host of questions and potential issues. How can a doctor properly check my eyes and feet through a computer screen? Will telehealth replace in-person discussions about my blood sugar? Will I get the same level of care through a computer? According to a 2022 article in American Family Physician , telehealth is promising for diabetes treatment and has been shown to help improve glucose management. In a separate analysis of glucose data from people with type 2 diabetes, people who received remote monitoring of their glucose levels saw significant improvements in A1C over a period of three months. That being said, no study or physician is implying that telehealth fully replaces in-person medical care for diabetes. Here’s what to consider and who might be the best candidates for telediabetes care. What happens during a diabetes telehealth visit? Telediabetes care involves two types of interactions. One is a video meeting with a physician or care team to discuss challenges and potential solutions. During this type of visit, the healthcare provider can see some physical signs or changes, such as rashes or wounds. The second type of interaction is virtual monitoring of glucose levels through a monitoring device that sends data to the care provider. The provider might also follow up with a video call to discuss the data. “Many of the things that are important for diabetes care – blood glucose data review, medication review, insulin teaching – can all happen over video,” said Dr. Varsha Vimalananda, an endocrinologist and associate professor of medicine at Boston University. “CGM data can be uploaded and reviewed remotely, which is also very helpful.” Different providers use different video platforms for telehealth appointments, but most will look and function much like a Zoom call. The benefits of telehealth in diabetes care Not all elements of diabetes care are best suited for telehealth, but many lend themselves naturally to the conversation and convenience that an electronic visit facilitates. For type 2 diabetes in particular, telehealth has been shown to be more effective than in-person care at helping people manage their condition. One reason for the improved outcomes is simply better access to care. Dr. Keta Pandit, an endocrinologist at Texas Diabetes & Endocrinology in Austin, Texas, says continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), along with telehealth options, have changed the landscape of diabetes care. “One of the benefits of being able to offer telemedicine to our patient population is that it has increased the access to care, especially with any ongoing illnesses, hospitalizations, COVID, post-COVID, or any other situations when patients notice their glucose levels are going out of their standard range. Patients often contact us for these types of situations, and we can quickly get them seen via telemedicine to make adjustments to their diabetes medications,” she says. “While this was still an option prior to telemedicine days, the opportunity to see their provider on short notice, not having to worry about transportation, and not having to put in advance notice to take time off of work to travel to the doctor’s office, are some of the ways access to care has increased.” Pandit says this is particularly true for older patients who require frequent visits and women who are pregnant, as well as those who need to optimize their glucose levels before and after surgery. Jasmine Meidas, 51, of Cleveland, Ohio, is one such patient. She was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes 15 years ago. “During the COVID-19 pandemic, I was much more comfortable with telehealth than going into my endocrinologist’s office, which is in a hospital. I still am,” she says. Meidas has a one-hour telehealth visit every three months. “They can order blood work to be taken locally, [and] we review [the results] together. We also review food choices, lifestyle challenges, stressors, and more. We set action steps and goals for the next 90 days,” she says. Meidas periodically sees her endocrinologist in person as well. At Vimalananda’s clinic in Boston, specific groups are making great strides with telehealth options. “Veterans, mostly,” she says. “I have a few [Veteran patients] who have severe [post-traumatic stress disorder]. Driving out to the clinic, dealing with traffic, and navigating the hospital are all things that cause a lot of distress. It’s been a game-changer for them to be able to have the visit from home.” When is telehealth not the best option? “If you have diabetes, please remove your socks and shoes.” This type of sign is frequently displayed in doctors’ offices. How would a foot exam work in telehealth? This is a real concern for people with diabetes, as up to 15% of patients will have a foot ulcer in their lifetime. Pandit and other experts acknowledge the limitations telehealth can have. “The medical team [must depend] on the patient [to provide] data and limited access to other parameters that are needed, including blood pressure measurements or foot examinations. When visits are conducted via telemedicine…care is not as comprehensive,” says Pandit. “There are times when the telemedicine model may pose risks. The limitation is clearly noted in visits with patients who are not technologically savvy, may have hearing issues, or [have] poor [internet] connection at the time of the visit.” Telehealth can also give health care providers a direct view into the home environment, which may result in a patient’s hesitancy to share openly — with family members potentially nearby — and impede the building of relationships and rapport. For these reasons, Pandit recommends that at least every other visit be conducted in person. 
A logo for diabetic supplies inc. and eddy care
March 24, 2025
We are delighted to announce a groundbreaking partnership between Diabetic Supplies Inc. and eddii-Care , the virtual endocrine care clinic hosted by eddii—the leading diabetes management platform.
March 11, 2025
These protein- and fiber-packed spinach, ricotta, and mozzarella egg muffins are a filling yet healthy weekday breakfast option.
March 4, 2025
Key takeaways The FDA has issued a warning to users of continuous glucose monitors after reports of missed urgent blood sugar alarms on smartphones. Free apps can act as a backup for CGM alerts on your phone. A secondary alert system, like a CGM receiver or the SugarPixel standalone display, can ensure critical alerts are noticed. The FDA recently issued a safety notice after receiving reports from CGM users who missed critical low and high blood sugar alerts on their smartphones. Some of the causes for the missed alerts included: changes to phone settings, operating system upgrades, and using Bluetooth accessories. The safety warning coincided with my own experience. Following an update to my smartphone, I missed two critical low blood sugar alerts during the night. After missing those notices, I realized that I could back up my CGM alarms the same way I back up photos on my phone or laptop's hard drive. I then went about researching and testing other backup options, including these apps and devices I now use to make sure alarms are heard consistently, especially at night.
February 12, 2025
Marcia Kadanoff, who lives with type 2 diabetes, shares her top five tips for enjoying a Valentine’s Day meal out. Pink and red hearts everywhere, overpriced dinners, wondering if you’ll have a date (or if you got your partner an appropriate gift) – ah, the joys of Valentine’s Day. I’m stressed just thinking about it. As a person with diabetes, my stress may be a bit different than general Valentine’s Day anxiety. By this point, my spouse knows enough not to get me chocolates, my biggest landmine food. But the hard thing for Valentine's Day or any other romantic occasion is getting a reservation at the right kind of restaurant and – as always when living with diabetes – planning out my meal. Special occasion meals take special skills to navigate. The good news is that there are definitely strategies that can help make a romantic dinner somewhere special enjoyable without diabetes taking center stage. Where I live – the San Francisco Bay Area – many restaurants have Valentine’s Day dinner specials that consist of three to five courses. There’s nothing wrong with eating a multi-course meal, but it does make diabetes management more difficult. From bread to creamy soups and crouton-laden salads to heavy entrées to a dessert that’s potentially cake-filled, multi-course meals can quickly add up to a large amount of carbohydrates, which is a major driver of high blood sugars. The reality is that even if I choose the “healthier” set menu for a celebratory multi-course meal, I still make a point to think about what each portion is bringing (quite literally) to the table. Here are my best tips for navigating a Valentine's Day dinner out.
February 5, 2025
Figuring out when and how to exercise can be one of the most difficult parts of living with diabetes. Hear from experts who discuss the benefits and share strategies for safely exercising. Having diabetes doesn’t mean you have to let go of the things you love doing, which may include playing sports. Exercise is an essential part of diabetes management, leading to improved weight management, reduction in cardiovascular disease risk factors, and great mental health benefits. Experts like Dr. Lori Laffel, chief of the pediatric, adolescent and young adult section at Joslin Diabetes Center, discussed the benefits and strategies for safely exercising with diabetes. Laffel pointed to the ADA’s Standards of Care, which recommend adults get 150-300 minutes per week of moderate-to-vigorous exercise and youth get 420 minutes per week of moderate-to-vigorous exercise. But even with all of the evidence pointing to its benefits, managing exercise can be one of the most difficult parts of living with diabetes. There are multiple challenges to consider, such as abnormal insulin delivery and glucagon physiology, how stress hormones affect blood glucose, hydration, and more. The good news is that you can still stay active with diabetes and engage in the sports you love. Famous athletes who have diabetes include five-time Olympic gold medalist Gary Wayne Hall Jr., recent Super Bowl champion Noah Gray, and the Women’s National Basketball Association’s 2022 third overall pick Lauren Cox. Exercising just might mean a little more planning on your part. This includes paying special attention to the type of physical activity you’re doing, carb intake, and your insulin regimen, said Laffel. How does exercise impact blood sugar? It’s still difficult to know the degree to which exercise affects your blood glucose levels. According to Michael Riddell, professor of kinesiology and health sciences at York University, an optimal glycemic range is “unclear and very individualized for the athlete with diabetes.” Factors that influence one’s glucose response to exercise include the type of activity, time of day, whether you’ve recently taken insulin, what food was recently consumed, stress, sleep, and more. Athletes who compete may want to consider how their levels vary between training days versus competitions. While it might not always be doable in practice, Riddell recommends a time in range of 70% during training and 75% on competition days – while paying special attention to minimizing hypoglycemia to less than 1%. For competitive athletes, other important things to manage include sleep, meals, basal/bolus insulin, hydration, and workout schedules. The type, duration, and intensity of exercise are main factors that influence glucose response. Different forms of physical activity cause different glycemic trends that ultimately affect how you respond to diabetes management. For example, endurance activities (like walking, jogging, and cycling) tend to reduce glucose levels, whereas high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and resistance training tend to vary more so. Laffel said that if you are engaging in intense exercise, know it can cause hyperglycemia and may increase your insulin needs during recovery time. The amount of carbs you should eat to maintain your desired glucose levels will depend on the intensity of your exercise. Lower-intensity exercise typically means more carbs and less insulin needed and vice versa for higher-intensity exercise, explained Riddell. For context, about 50% of recreational athletes with type 1 diabetes prefer training and sometimes competing with a moderately low (100-200 grams per day), low (40-99 grams per day), or very low (<40 grams per day) carb diet. Helpful guidelines and tech for exercise Activity monitors and devices can significantly help with diabetes management while exercising. Connected pens and insulin pumps provide timely dosage; continuous glucose monitors (CGM) let you follow trends to guide your insulin dosing and carb intake; and automated insulin delivery (AID) can protect you from hypoglycemia and possible hyperglycemia. Laffel provided a few basic guidelines if you’re engaging in aerobic exercise for more than 40 minutes. If you’re on multiple daily injections (MDI) or an open-loop pump, consider the following insulin adjustments: For those on MDI, start with a 20% reduction in basal insulin dose. For people on insulin pump therapy, reduce basal rate by about 50% (as a starting point) 1-2 hours before, during, and about one hour after exercise. Reduce bolus insulin by 50% for meals or snacks two hours before and up to two hours after exercise. At bedtime (or 7-11 hours following afternoon exercise) reduce your basal rate by 20% for up to six hours. If you are engaging in unplanned aerobic exercise, eat a few extra carbs. Use a CGM or monitor to check glucose before, during, and after physical activity. According to Laffel, an overlooked but important part of exercising with diabetes is the cool-down period, which can be any sort of exercise that you consider easy, such as walking or a slow jog. Cooling down can reduce your risk of hyperglycemia after vigorous exercise. You should cool down for about 20 minutes. If your glucose levels remain high, you can consider conservative insulin correction (greater than 220 mg/dL). Ultimately, there are many ways you can tailor diabetes management to work for your exercise plan. You should discuss your exercise regime with your doctor, as everyone’s needs are individualized and dependent on their lifestyle.
February 5, 2025
Game day is fast approaching. Here are six diabetes-friendly healthy snack recipes that are all sure to be instant crowd-pleasers. Are you ready for the big game? Whether you're a raving football enthusiast, solely a fan of the commercials, or just around for the food and comradery, it's impossible to deny that the Super Bowl is a big deal. It's important to make sure you'll stay healthy while helping yourself to a few delicious bites. “Traditional Super Bowl snack foods are less than ideal, even if you aren't living with diabetes,” says Heather Hanks, a certified nutritionist and medical adviser at Medical Solutions BCN. Hanks acknowledges that it's always a challenge to eat healthy on Super Bowl Sunday. “The key here is to find snacks that contain no refined sugars and fewer carbs, a good source of protein, healthy fats, and fiber to keep you full and stabilize blood sugar levels.” Diabetes-friendly snacks for game day Bearing these pointers in mind, we have six low-carb finger food options, from cheese dips to buffalo-style cauliflower bites. These healthy snack options will have you partaking in the party without feeling too full or weighed down. 
January 28, 2025
Story at-a-glance Consuming dark chocolate is linked to a 21% reduction in the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, while milk chocolate does not offer the same benefit and is associated with weight gain
January 14, 2025
A while back, I shared some of the advantages of chia pudding, and I’ve since been shocked by the positive response. “Adam, thank you so much,” one diaTribe reader wrote me to say. “I’ve been looking for a breakfast like this for 25 years! It has changed my life.” Parents have even emailed me with enthusiasm for this recipe –“My son loves this!” – meaning this isn’t just a weird concoction for health nuts like me. For those of you who aren’t familiar with the kitchen wonder that is chia pudding, it’s truly the simplest breakfast to make, and it offers so many benefits – little impact on blood glucose, three minutes to make without cooking, inexpensive, stocked with fiber and omega-3s, and filling and tasty – that you might just feel the same way. I’ve walked through how to make it in a video, and for those of you who’d prefer reading the recipe, the written details on how to make chia pudding are also below. What are chia seeds? Chia seeds are the edible seeds of a flowering desert plant, Salvia hispanica, a relative of the mint family. They look a lot like poppy seeds and are packed with fiber, protein, and healthy Omega-3 fats. On their own, chia seeds don’t taste like anything, so it’s all about how they are flavored—hence the recipe. Where to buy chia seeds I buy chia seeds in bulk online; a two-pound bag from Viva Labs on Amazon costs about $10 and covers about 20 breakfasts. They can also be purchased at regular grocery stores, natural foods stores, and even corner stores, usually in one-pound bags. They are often in the baking section or near where bags of rice and beans are sold. They may also be in the bulk foods aisle, near any nuts, or a in health foods and vitamin section as well. How to make chia seed pudding To make chia seed pudding, mix 1/4 cup of chia seeds with 1/2 cup of water . If you’re me, you’ll also add a hearty amount of cinnamon , 1-2 tablespoons of coconut oil , and some combination of toppings such as fruit, seeds, and nuts . (For instance, I like frozen raspberries, shelled sunflower seeds, and almonds.) After about a minute of stirring with a spoon and about a minute sitting , it turns into a pudding-like gel. Chia pudding can also be made ahead of time, and you can double or quadruple the recipe. The water can be hot or cold, depending on your preferences, and the pudding can be made thicker by using less water. Chocolate or vanilla protein powder or pure vanilla extract can be added for additional flavor. There is nothing exact about this recipe, so experiment with the components and toppings to fit your tastes. For example, you can try this Overnight Berry Chia Pudding. I also know someone that makes it with lemon juice, stevia, and almonds. There are many other chia seed pudding recipes on the Internet, though most contain some amount of added sugar, such as honey, maple syrup, date syrup, or coconut sugar. Enjoying chia seed pudding with diabetes When it comes to bolusing for insulin when eating chia pudding, I generally take one unit of insulin for chia seed pudding as I start eating, which covers the very slow blood glucose rise from fat, protein, and the small amount of carbs from the toppings. Each 1/4 cup of chia seeds has 20 grams of carbs, though 16 grams are from fiber (80%), translating to little blood sugar impact. A note about chia seed pudding for people with sensitive stomachs If you have any gastrointestinal discomfort with this recipe, try making the chia pudding in a batch and letting it sit overnight. Some readers have written in to add that soaking chia seeds in water for a longer period of time has made chia seed pudding easier for them to digest. 
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