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Fact: Blood glucose testing is backed up by research
International clinical trials, such as the US Diabetes Control and Complications Trial, the Kumamoto Study in Japan and the UK Prospective Diabetes Study all show that good blood sugar control reduces the risk for diabetes complications. Even small improvements in blood sugar were shown to make a difference. That’s good motivation to continue testing your blood glucose as part of your take-charge diabetes management.

Fact: If you have diabetes you can benefit from blood glucose testing
Blood glucose testing is recommended if:

• You are taking insulin
• You’re having a hard time controlling your blood glucose levels
• You have severely low levels
• You have ketones from high levels
• You’re having low levels without warning signs

But everyone with diabetes can benefit from testing.

Fact: Blood glucose results track how well your diabetes plan is working
High or low blood sugar levels don’t mean you’ve done something wrong. All it means is that your insulin supply didn’t meet the demand. The steps you take to manage your diabetes are very important, but not everything is under your control—sometimes your levels will be affected by stress, illness or unpredictable insulin absorption. Instead of blaming yourself, work with your healthcare team to address the issue.

Tip: Sometimes your diabetes plan needs to change
Testing and keeping track of your test results helps your healthcare team ensure your treatment continues to be effective. Over time you may need to make changes to your treatment plan to ensure your blood glucose remains under control.

Tip: It’s a good idea to refresh your testing skills
Meters are designed to be accurate and precise, but it’s possible to make mistakes when you’re using them. That’s why it’s a good idea to get your health care team to check your testing skills every year. You should also make sure your meter is well maintained. Keep your meter clean, keep your test strips in a dry place, change your lancet frequently and call the Bayer Diabetes Care Support Line if you have any questions: 1-800-268-7200.

Tip: The Online Blood Glucose Log makes it easier to keep track
Bayer’s Online Blood Glucose Log lets you keep track of all your blood glucose test results on the Web, in your very own convenient spot. Enter your result after you finish a test and you’ll be able to easily see if you are staying within your target range. Register or log in now