Latest and greatest: Technology that transforms diabetes care

An update from a recent American Diabetes Association conference highlighted technology in the treatment of diabetes.

What it’s about:

• The update pointed out the transformative impact of diabetes technology, particularly continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), remote patient monitoring programs, and connected insulin pens, on diabetes care.
• These innovations allow for real-time tracking of blood glucose levels, improved medication adjustments, and better diabetes management for patients, especially those in underserved areas.
• TACM-2
  • The Technology Assisted Case Management for Low-Income Adults with Type 2 Diabetes (TACM-2) program offers free at-home monitoring tools to help patients track their glucose levels and share data with their healthcare providers.
  • The program has led to significant and sustained improvements in A1C levels over six and twelve months.
• Connected insulin pens automate dose tracking and reminders, reducing missed or mistimed doses—common issues that significantly impact A1C levels.
  • These tools also help patients maintain insulin quality and avoid dangerous storage conditions.
  • Ultimately, diabetes technology improves patient engagement, identifies gaps in care, and helps both individuals and healthcare providers make informed decisions about treatment.

Takeaways for Nordic walkers:

• Regular exercise improves glucose regulation.
• The study emphasizes how real-time tracking shows the impact of food and exercise on blood glucose.
• Nordic walking, as a full-body exercise, can be a natural way to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels.
• Consistency is key to sustained health benefits.
• The TACM-2 program showed long-term A1C reductions over six to twelve months.
• Nordic walking, when done regularly, can lead to similar long-term benefits, making it a sustainable lifestyle habit for managing blood sugar.
• Movement can reduce the need for insulin adjustments
• The connected insulin pens highlight the challenge of missed or mistimed doses, affecting blood glucose control.
• Regular Nordic walking sessions may reduce the need for insulin or medication adjustments by enhancing glucose metabolism naturally.
• Exercise as a complementary “technology”
• Instead of relying solely on CGMs or connected insulin devices, Nordic walking provides a proactive approach to stabilizing blood sugar levels.
• By engaging in Nordic walking, individuals with diabetes may find they require fewer external interventions over time.

How Nordic walking can mitigate the need for such external measures:

1. Enhances insulin sensitivity naturally
• Nordic walking increases muscle glucose uptake, improving insulin sensitivity and reducing blood sugar spikes after meals.
• Over time, this may decrease reliance on insulin therapy or the need for aggressive medication adjustments.
2. Encourages weight management
• Excess weight contributes to insulin resistance, but Nordic walking is an effective calorie-burning activity that supports weight loss and maintenance.
• A healthy weight reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes progression and may lessen the need for continuous glucose monitoring.
3. Supports cardiovascular health
• Diabetes increases the risk of heart disease, but Nordic walking improves circulation, reduces blood pressure, and enhances overall heart health.
• This can help prevent complications, reducing the necessity for frequent monitoring.
4. Provides a structured and enjoyable activity
• Many individuals struggle with medication adherence due to disruptions in daily routines (“life happens”).
• A structured Nordic walking routine builds consistency, making it easier to incorporate health-conscious habits without needing reminders from connected technology.
5. Reduces stress and promotes well-being
• Stress can negatively affect blood glucose control, and Nordic walking—especially in natural settings—promotes mental relaxation and reduces stress hormones.
• Lower stress levels can lead to better glucose control without needing external monitoring devices.

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