Hi there,
After a slower pace in May and June, July brought us back into full swing! This month, I've been diving deep into one of the biggest decisions I see people wrestling with: whether to get a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM).
With so much buzz around diabetes technology, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the options or pressured to jump on every new trend. After 15 years of helping Asian Americans navigate diabetes management, I've learned that the best tools are the ones that actually fit your lifestyle, your goals, and your unique situation.
This month, we're cutting through the hype to give you practical, evidence-based insights about CGMs and other diabetes management strategies. Whether you're curious about new technology or just trying to make sense of your current routine, I'm here to help you make informed decisions that work for your real life.
2. THIS MONTH'S HIGHLIGHTS 📊
📈 Continuing Our Series: We're continuing with our "It's Not Discipline" series on Instagram! This time we explored how not eating enough during the day may be the reason why you start having cravings in the evening. It's amazing how often the solution isn't about more willpower, but about having satisfying meals.
💡 New Blog Post: I published a comprehensive post about Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) – the pros, cons, and what you need to know before making this investment in your diabetes management.
3. PRACTICAL CORNER 💡
Summer and Diabetes Management: A Quick Reminder
Summer schedules can throw off our usual routines. If you're finding your blood sugar patterns different during summer months, you're not alone. Changes in sleep schedules, meal timing, activity levels, and even temperature all play a role.
One simple strategy that may help: Try to maintain consistent meal timing even when your schedule shifts. Your body appreciates predictability, especially when it comes to managing blood sugar.
4. DIABETES INSIGHT 🔍
Should You Get a CGM? What I Tell My Clients
I see so many people torn about whether to try a Continuous Glucose Monitor. With so much buzz around CGM technology, it's important to understand both the benefits and limitations before making this investment.
The Reality Check: CGMs can be incredibly valuable tools, but they're not magic solutions. In my new comprehensive blog post, I break down exactly when CGMs are worth it, when they might not be the best choice, and what you need to know before talking to your doctor. I've also created a detailed downloadable guide specifically to help you understand the pros and cons of CGMs so you can make an informed decision about whether this technology is right for you.
Key Insight for Asian Americans: Many of my clients find CGMs particularly helpful when learning how their cultural foods affect their blood sugar patterns. Seeing real-time data on how different rice preparations, noodle dishes, or traditional desserts impact their glucose can be incredibly educational.
Cultural Consideration: Some families become overly focused on the numbers, which can create anxiety rather than empowerment. I always discuss with clients how to involve (or not involve) family members in CGM data to maintain healthy boundaries.
Want the full breakdown? Read my complete CGM guide here.
Bonus Research Update: I recently came across a study showing that pistachios can help improve overnight blood sugar control when eaten as an evening snack. If you need a nighttime snack idea, you can add pistachios to the list! For more evening food swap ideas, check out this Instagram post where I share several blood sugar-friendly options.
5. YOU ASK, I ANSWER 🙋🏻♀️
This month, I'm asking YOU:
"What's something you wish someone had told you when you were first diagnosed with diabetes?"
After 15 years of helping people navigate their diabetes journey, I'm always curious about those early moments – the confusion, the overwhelm, the things that would have made the transition easier if someone had just explained them clearly.
Was it something practical, like how to read your numbers? Something emotional, like "it's going to be okay"? Or maybe something cultural, like "you don't have to give up all your favorite foods"?
I'm collecting insights from our community because I think your experiences could really help someone who's newly diagnosed and feeling lost right now.
Hit reply and share your thoughts! What wisdom would you pass along to someone just starting this journey? I'd love to feature some of your responses in future newsletters (anonymously and with your permission, of course).
6. COMING UP NEXT 📅
Exciting News: I'll be attending the annual conference on diabetes education next week! I can't wait to learn about the latest research, connect with other specialists, and discover new strategies to support you better. I'll be sure to share the most relevant insights and updates with you.
7. ACTIONABLE TAKEAWAY ✅
This week's action: Download my free CGM Pros & Cons guide here. Whether you're considering getting a CGM or just want to understand the technology better, this guide will help you make informed decisions about your diabetes management tools.
Quick win opportunity: Pay attention to your eating pattern today. Are you eating enough during the day? If you find yourself craving snacks in the evening, it might not be about willpower – you might simply need more balanced nutrition earlier in the day. This insight from our latest "It's Not Discipline" series has helped so many people understand their evening eating patterns better!
✉️ Find this newsletter helpful? Forward it to a friend who might benefit too!
👋 About Karen
I'm Karen Lau, a Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist with over 15 years of clinical experience helping Asian Americans manage diabetes while honoring their cultural traditions. My background in diabetes care at a major medical institution has given me deep insight into creating culturally-informed approaches to blood sugar management. Want personalized support? Schedule your first session here if you are using insurance. Or book a free strategy call to learn how we can work together.
Note: This content is for general knowledge and educational purposes only, not medical advice. While this guide follows current medical guidelines, always consult your healthcare team for personalized recommendations and advice specific to your situation. This newsletter was authored by me, with my professional expertise, clinical experience, and original ideas forming the foundation of the content. Claude, an AI assistant from Anthropic, helped organize and expand my thoughts into this comprehensive newsletter while maintaining my voice and professional perspective.
To your health—body, mind, and heritage,
Karen
Diabetes Dietitian & Diabetes Care Specialist (RDN, CDCES)
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