Longevity Medicine
What Is Continuous Glucose Monitoring?
Last reviewed: May 2026 · Haute MD Editorial Team
Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) uses a small sensor inserted under the skin to measure interstitial glucose levels every few minutes, providing real-time data on how blood sugar responds to food, exercise, sleep, and stress. Originally developed for diabetic patients, CGM is now widely used by longevity physicians and health-conscious individuals without diabetes to optimize metabolic health.
Why non-diabetics use CGM
Standard lab testing misses significant glucose variability occurring throughout the day. CGM reveals post-meal glucose spikes, the glycemic impact of specific foods, how sleep affects blood sugar, and how exercise modifies glucose responses — patterns invisible to standard testing but meaningfully affecting metabolic health and longevity.
What CGM reveals
Post-prandial glucose peaks above 140 mg/dL indicate impaired glucose regulation even in 'normal' HbA1c ranges. Dawn phenomenon. Sleep quality impact on glucose variability. Food-specific responses that vary significantly between individuals.
Popular CGM devices for wellness
Dexcom G7, Abbott Freestyle Libre, and Levels Health are commonly used for wellness CGM. Most longevity physicians recommend 2-4 weeks of CGM monitoring as a baseline metabolic assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a prescription for a CGM?
In the United States, CGM devices require a prescription. Dexcom and Abbott are working toward OTC availability.
What is a healthy glucose range for longevity?
Most longevity physicians target fasting glucose 70-85 mg/dL, post-meal peaks below 110-120 mg/dL, and time-in-range above 90% for 70-100 mg/dL — tighter than standard diabetic management goals.
How long should I wear a CGM?
A 2-4 week period provides enough data to identify patterns. Many longevity physicians repeat CGM monitoring seasonally or after significant lifestyle changes.
Does CGM help with weight loss?
Yes. CGM helps identify foods causing excessive glucose spikes for your individual metabolism, informing dietary choices that improve insulin sensitivity and support sustainable weight management.
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Longevity Medicine · Miami Beach, FL
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Longevity Medicine · New York, NY
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Longevity Medicine · New York, NY
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