Self-monitoring such as this can help diabetics learn how specific foods and exercise influences their blood glucose levels. To test blood glucose, the diabetic pricks a finger to get a blood sample and transfers the blood to a strip. A computerized meter measures the blood glucose concentration. Once the diabetic is able to adhere to a consistent diet and activity pattern, glucose levels can be tested less often. But if eating or activity pattern changes, blood glucose needs to be monitored more often.
Diabetics can also monitor ketone levels in the urine with test strips.
This is recommended for diabetics who have consistently high blood glucose, because they are at risk for ketosis, which can increase risk for coma.