WHAT ARE THE BEST TEST STRIPS FOR DIABETES?

Anyone who has diabetes understands how necessary it is to regularly test their blood sugar, which necessitates having test strips on hand. However, there can be significant variances in how the strips function, from the size of the sample to the amount of precision and time it takes to receive a result. As a result, it could be challenging to decide if Accu-Chek or One Touch test strips are the best choices for you.

In this article, we'll share our top three brands with you and explain some of the important factors you should take into account when choosing test strips for diabetes.

The Best Three Diabetes Test Strips

One Touch Ultra

One Touch Ultra is the first brand to enter our top three, and here's why:

• In about five seconds, results: You need results right now when getting a quick and accurate reading is essential.
• Usefulness: With some strips, it can be challenging to determine if you've given enough blood to obtain a reliable reading. When the supplied sample is sizable enough for the test to be carried out, it is simple to see with the One Touch Ultra.

Accu-Chek

The reason Accu-Chek comes in at number two on our list is as follows:

• Small Blood Sample: Compared to other brands, these strips only require 0.6 microliters of blood, which is substantially less. As a result, testing is significantly simpler and causes less discomfort.
• Touchable Wide-Mouth Test Strips: Some test strips have such a small mouth that it can be difficult to prepare the sample for testing. You'll be able to do it properly the first time with the larger Aviva stips.

FreeStyle Precision Neo

The FreeStyle Precision Neo is the third and last item on our list of the top three, and it is there for the following three reasons:

• No coding is necessary. This makes using the strips quick and simple.
• Each test strip is individually wrapped, making it simple to carry them everywhere you go without worrying about them becoming contaminated.
• This business has given careful consideration to how to make the testing process as simple as possible, whether it be by top-fill or end-fill blood application. There is no concern about arranging things correctly because blood can be applied through a top or end fill.

How Do Test Strips For Diabetes Operate?

A little plastic strip with an absorbent pad is used as a diabetes test strip to gather a tiny drop of blood. The strip, which has chemicals in it that react with glucose to change colour, is then exposed to the blood. A digital metre that displays the results in terms of mmol/L can detect the change in colour (millimoles per liter).

Finding the Best Test Strips for Diabetes Monitoring

Although each person will have their own preferences, we've discovered four important factors that you should take into account when determining which test strip is the best for you.

Accuracy

Finding an accurate strip is the most crucial step. It will therefore provide you with a reading that is rather near to your actual blood sugar level. Before making a purchase, it is vital to read reviews because some strips are more accurate than others. Whichever brand you choose, it's critical that they consistently deliver blood glucose levels that are within 15% or 15 mg/dL of the laboratory values.

Some strips' accuracy has been questioned in the past, and according to a report from the Diabetes Technology Society, just six of the 18 strips they examined met the 95% accuracy requirement. The worst-performing strips had an accuracy percentage of less than 75%.

Convenience

How practical it is to use the strips is another factor to take into account. Some strips need blood, which you must first apply to the strip by poking your finger. With a lancet, additional strips can be used, greatly simplifying the procedure.

Additionally, new strips without any blood requirement have recently entered the market. The glucose in your saliva is measured by these strips. Those who dislike handling blood may find this to be a highly practical solution.

Price

Price is, of course, always taken into account when buying anything. Price each test strip might range from $0.50 to more than $1.00. Finding the right balance between pricing and accuracy is crucial.

While some health insurance providers will pay for test strips, others won't. It is crucial to confirm what is covered with your insurer.

Ease of Use

Another aspect to think about is usability. Some strips need to be applied on the blood drop that develops after you prick your finger. While waiting for the results, you can just place the strip on your tongue with some other medications. The latter is typically less uncomfortable and easier to utilise.

Finding a strip that is simple to read is crucial, too. Some strips can be challenging to read, which can produce unreliable findings.

The Blood Glucose Monitor

When it comes to determining your glucose levels, the Blood Glucose Monitor Test Strips are only one component of the puzzle. Additionally, you will require a blood glucose monitor, which reads the test strips and shows the findings.

Prices for monitors can range from $10 to more than $100. More capabilities, like the capacity to retain repeated readings, are typically found on more expensive monitors, which also tend to be more accurate.

While some monitors need to be calibrated using a control solution, others don't. Your monitor will offer you accurate readings after being calibrated.

The ease of usage of the monitor is another thing to take into account. While some monitors are quite straightforward and basic, others are more sophisticated and include a variety of capabilities. A decision should be made based on your requirements and preferences.