Best Continuous Glucose Monitors in 2026

Consumer CGMs use the same sensor technology as prescription devices but may have slightly wider accuracy margins. Dexcom and Abbott sensors typically read within 9-15% of blood glucose values. Interstitial fluid (what CGMs measure) lags blood glucose by 5-15 minutes, so readings during rapid changes may differ from fingerstick tests. For metabolic optimization purposes, this accuracy is sufficient.

Not anymore for some devices. Dexcom Stelo and Abbott Lingo are FDA-approved for over-the-counter sale to non-diabetics. CGM programs like Levels and Nutrisense partner with telemedicine providers to prescribe sensors as part of their membership. If you just want the hardware without coaching, OTC options are now available at pharmacies and online.

CGMs reveal your glucose response to specific foods, showing which meals spike you and which keep you stable. You'll see how sleep quality, stress, and exercise timing affect blood sugar. Patterns like fasting glucose creep or post-meal crashes become visible. This data helps identify metabolic dysfunction before it progresses to prediabetes. CGMs cannot diagnose conditions but highlight areas worth discussing with your doctor.

Most programs recommend at least one month to capture enough meals and patterns. Two weeks reveals obvious food responses, but a full month shows how your metabolism varies with sleep, stress, and activity cycles. Some people wear CGMs continuously while others use periodic two-week checks quarterly or when testing dietary changes.

That depends on your goals. If you're optimizing athletic performance, experimenting with diets, or curious about metabolic health, CGM data provides insights you can't get otherwise. If you eat reasonably well and have normal fasting glucose, you might not learn much that justifies the ongoing cost. Consider a single month trial before committing long-term.