Maximizing the Benefits of Freestyle Libre: Avoiding Common Mistakes
Learn common mistakes when using Freestyle Libre and how to avoid them for accurate glucose level readings.
00:00:00 Learn common mistakes Freestyle Libre users make and how to avoid them, maximizing the benefits of your CGM. Don't just look at glucose levels on the main screen, explore other data too.
📌 Common mistakes Freestyle Libre users make and how to avoid them.
⚠️ The danger of relying solely on the main screen for glucose data.
🔍 The importance of reviewing all available data on the Libre.
00:01:13 Discover hidden trends and problem areas in your glucose levels with Freestyle Libre. Avoid the hassle of calling customer service by using the online form. Address harmful misconceptions for a better experience.
Analyzing daily patterns and glucose levels can reveal hidden trends and problem areas.
Submitting an online form can save time and stress when dealing with sensor issues.
Addressing misconceptions can build trust and reduce frustration with the Freestyle Libre.
00:02:24 Discover the common mistakes made with Freestyle Libre and how to anticipate glucose level changes using the arrows.
⚡️ The Freestyle Libre measures glucose levels in the interstitial fluid, not blood glucose levels.
📈 There is a slight delay between finger stick readings and the readings from the Freestyle Libre due to the movement of glucose into the interstitial fluid.
🔍 The arrows next to the glucose levels on the Freestyle Libre indicate the direction and speed of glucose changes, allowing for anticipation of future changes.
00:03:35 Avoid placing the Freestyle Libre sensor on the front or side of the arm to prevent painful insertion, failed sensors, and premature falling. Keep it on the back of the arm for proper functioning.
💡 Placing the Freestyle Libre sensor on the back of the arm is important for its proper functioning.
🚪 Other locations of the arm have more muscle mass and expose the sensor to potential damage, such as catching on door handles.
❌ Not knowing a specific precaution can cause the Libre sensor to fall off.
00:04:47 Discover the surprising purpose of the tiny holes on your Freestyle Libre sensor and how to prevent premature detachment.
The small holes on the Freestyle Libre sensor allow trapped fluid to drain, preventing the sensor from falling off prematurely.
Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing or patches over the sensor to maintain the adhesive bond to the skin.
Freestyle Libre offers an easy way to share glucose levels and diabetes care, challenging the notion of a solo diabetes journey.
00:06:00 Avoid common mistakes with your Freestyle Libre sensor to ensure accurate and consistent glucose level readings for the full 14 days.
📊 Sharing glucose levels with friends and family using the Libre link up app can help with monitoring.
📦 The freestyle Libre sensor may not come with sufficient adhesive, requiring additional measures to keep it in place.
❌ Making a specific mistake can lead to inaccurate glucose readings and potential risks.
00:07:14 Taking vitamin C supplements can cause false glucose readings on the Freestyle Libre sensor, potentially leading to missed low glucose warnings. Salicylic acid can also affect sensor readings.
⚠️ Taking a vitamin C supplement can cause false elevation in sensor glucose readings and potentially lead to missing severe low glucose events.
📈 Taking more than 500 milligrams of vitamin C per day can affect sensor glucose readings, and popular supplements contain 1000 milligrams per serving.
🩸 Salicylic acid, found in some over-the-counter medications, may cause slightly lower sensor glucose readings.
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