CGMs work by continuously measuring the glucose levels in your interstitial fluid, which is the thin layer of fluid surrounding your body’s cells. You may sometimes see them described as integrated CGMs or iCGMs.
The measuring is done by a tiny sensor that you insert under your skin using an applicator. When it comes to OTC CGMs, you’ll apply the sensor to the back of your upper arm.
The sensor connects to a transmitter that sends the glucose data wirelessly to a special receiver or an app on your smartphone.
With this, you get to view real-time data showing how your glucose levels respond to things like food, movement, and other factors that impact glucose response such as stress and sleep. You can then use this insight to help make choices that support your overall health and wellness.
Learn more about how CGMs work.