Biohacking, or making lifestyle tweaks for intentional results, has transitioned from a niche concept to a mainstream fitness approach. Individuals take a scientific, data-driven approach to understanding and optimising their bodies. Advanced tracking devices like continuous glucose monitors (CGM) are becoming extremely popular for holistic wellness. "It's about understanding your unique biological blueprint and creating targeted strategies for peak performance," said Akshay Verma, co-founder, FITPASS. Social media is full of fitness gurus and content creators who are making an effort to see how popular Indian foods have an effect on our blood sugar levels with the use of CGMs. While some foods may be causing an instant spike, others witness a far slower spike. A CGM helps to understand the glucose level every few minutes and keeps track of it over time to understand if there is a spike or levels are under control. "CGM has become a game changer when managing diabetes and improving people's quality of life. This will help gain real-time insights into blood glucose levels and keep one up-to-date regarding one’s health. The consulting doctor, in turn, can keep an eye out on the blood sugar levels and alter or recommend any medication," said Dr Manjusha Agarwal, senior consultant, internal medicine, Gleneagles Hospital Parel Mumbai. According to Dr Agarwal, a "better understanding from insights into our blood sugar levels", could "optimise diet, weight management, reduce oxidative stress, and improve lifestyle habits like sleep and stress". Moving over counting calories, this method has seemingly streamlined the monitoring of blood sugar spikes, something that is no less than revolutionary. However, while these creators tend to share their readings, experts also note that the underlined statement is there is no one-size-fits-all approach. For example, simple breakfast food like eating one besan chilla alone vis-a-vis pairing it with a chutney and curd can have different spikes in different people. So, how one eats, in what quantity, and with what makes a lot of difference to the readings, which affects your general health, may also impact. Dr Agarwal said that it is a known fact that CGM began as a medical breakthrough and is integrated into the social media world, where people openly share their CGM experiences, tips, and benefits. "Social media has become a platform for spreading diabetes awareness and empowering those experiencing fluctuations in blood sugar levels. Social media influencers and advocates use CGM data to educate others, normalise conversations around diabetes, and inspire healthier lifestyles," said Dr Agarwal. CGMs are pivotal in proactive health management, encouraging millions to embrace advanced technology for better well-being and understanding the spikes in blood sugar levels. However, instead of going by a reel or getting too carried away, it is better to use CGM under the guidance of an expert and take the readings with a pinch of salt. "Use it as a marker to make a lifestyle overhaul to reduce the risk of diabetes. Instead of taking others' readings at face value, making the requisite changes at your end becomes crucial for a better quality of life," said Dr Agarwal.
