My Journey to Better Health Through Blood Sugar Tracking with Dexcom Stelo

I’ve always believed that data can be one of the most powerful motivators for lasting lifestyle change. Recently, I had the opportunity to use a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), and the insights were eye-opening. Seeing, in real time, how my food choices directly impacted my blood sugar gave me a whole new appreciation for how connected our nutrition, energy, and long-term health really are.

When I ate well—balanced meals with adequate protein and fiber—my glucose levels stayed remarkably steady. But when I reached for processed snacks or high-sugar foods, I could see the immediate impact: my glucose would spike dramatically and remain elevated for hours. That prolonged elevation is what, over time, can contribute to inflammation, fatigue, and increased risk of insulin resistance. The feedback was instant and powerful—it changed how I think about meals, timing, and recovery.

For those curious about their own glucose trends, the Dexcom Stelo Glucose Biosensor System is an exciting new tool. I want to be clear that I have no affiliation with Dexcom and am not paid by them for sharing this information—I simply believe it’s a fascinating advancement for people who want to better understand their health.

The Dexcom Stelo is the first over-the-counter (OTC) continuous glucose monitor (CGM) available without a prescription. It’s designed for adults 18 and older who are not using insulin—this includes people with Type 2 diabetes managed by oral medication and even those without diabetes who simply want to see how their lifestyle affects their blood sugar.

How it works:

• Integrated CGM system (iCGM): A small sensor worn on the upper arm measures glucose continuously.

• Smartphone integration: Readings are sent directly to your phone through an app.

• Lifestyle feedback: You can track how meals, exercise, stress, or sleep impact your glucose levels throughout the day.

• No prescription required: It’s accessible directly to consumers—no doctor visit needed.

While this technology is not intended for people who experience frequent low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), it’s an excellent tool for understanding your body’s metabolic responses. The data can guide smarter eating, better recovery timing, and more effective exercise habits.

As always, you shouldn’t make medical decisions based on CGM data alone—consult a healthcare provider if you have questions or health concerns.

But for anyone serious about optimizing health, energy, and longevity, real-time glucose tracking can be an incredibly valuable window into how your daily choices truly affect your biology. Subscribe to the 10-Minute Longevity Newsletter to learn how tools like this can help you optimize your health.