Best (and worst) health tech: Blood pressure, blood glucose monitors and more
I get my steps in, never eat processed food, sleep like a baby and splurge on an occasional yummy lemon drop martini (my favorite mix!).
I also keep track of my numbers to flag potential problems early. And a friendly reminder: An at-home device never replaces a healthcare professional, so email, call or visit your doc if you’re worried about something.
The basics
High blood pressure is nothing to mess around with. It can lead to strokes and heart attacks.
- The Omron M6 Comfort costs $105, has been clinically validated and uses a color-coded system to make interpreting results easy.
- Or, try the $109.99 Withings BPM Connect, which works with your phone, keeps stats in the app and is perfect for traveling.
When something’s not right with your body, you often get a telltale shift in body temperature.
- Take a look at the $51.06 Braun No Touch 3-in-1 Thermometer, which works without contact and is speedy and reliable.
- Or, the $29.97 iProven Thermometer gives you an accurate reading in just a second.
A smart scale like the QardioBase X ($94.95) can help make sure you keep the pounds off. It calculates BMI and body composition and offers a ton of stats to work with. Also worth checking out: The Wyze Scale X ($39.98), with its comprehensive stats and sleek looks (it works for babies and pets, too).
The next level
Want to get more serious about health tracking? Blood glucose is a key indicator of body health — and crucial for diabetics to know.
- The Dexcom G7 and Contour Next One use pads and a phone app to tell you your levels round the clock (subscription prices vary).
I fully recommend getting yourself a dynamometer, too: Try this Gripx one or this Camry one, both for $29.99. They give you a window into muscle strength and physical health, and you can log your stats over time. The more muscle you have, the stronger and safer you’ll be as you age.
As far as basic health improvements go, upping your daily step count is a real winner. Use your phone or invest in a smartwatch or fitness tracker. These solid options from Apple, Fitbit and Garmin are on sale now.
Skip these
Steer clear of menopause tests (they’re not accurate enough), home genetics tests (hello, privacy intrusion), and cholesterol tests (the readings can’t be relied upon — get professional help instead).
I’m feeling healthier just writing this. Stay well, friend. And be sure to share this with someone in your life who’d appreciate it.
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Tags: Apple, apps, email, fitness tracker, home, phone, privacy, smart scale, tech, thermometer, tracking
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