Can the Apple Watch display blood sugar? Everything you need to know about the feature for diabetics

Whether the Apple Watch can measure and display blood sugar is essential information, especially for diabetics.

Apple Watch: No direct measurement of blood sugar possible

The Apple Watch cannot currently measure blood glucose directly, but there are significant advances in this area. So there are other ways to get blood glucose information.

• Dexcom G7 integration: Starting in September 2024, the Dexcom G7 CGM system will be able to transmit blood glucose values directly to the Apple Watch without the need for a smartphone. This works with Apple Watch Series 6 or later and watchOS 10 or later.

• Supersapiens App: Since October 2023, users have been able to use the Supersapiens App (version 3.1.1) to display glucose levels and trends directly on the Apple Watch.

• Future developments: Apple has been working on a non-invasive blood glucose measurement for more than twelve years for the Apple Watch, which is said to use lasers for measurement. Experts estimate that it could still take three to seven years for this technology to be market-ready.

• The goal is to monitor long-term trends and changes in blood sugar levels, not necessarily provide exact readings.

Current support for people with diabetes

Apple is developing a prediabetes management app that will make it easier to monitor food intake and support lifestyle changes.

• The Apple Watch can already track other health values that can affect blood sugar levels.

• Activity tracking: The watch monitors daily activity and workouts, which is important for diabetes management.

• Sleep monitoring: Sleep analysis can help diabetics understand the connection between sleep quality and blood sugar levels.

• Cycle tracking: For women with diabetes, monitoring their menstrual cycle can be helpful because hormonal fluctuations can affect blood sugar levels.

• Health app integration: Blood sugar data and other health values are merged in the health app, which provides a comprehensive overview.

• Reminders and alarms: Users can set reminders for taking medication or measuring blood sugar.

• Siri integration: With Siri, diabetics can use voice commands to access current blood sugar levels.

• Stress management: Features such as the breathing exercise app can help to reduce stress, which can have a positive effect on blood sugar levels.

• Conclusion: Although direct blood sugar measurement is not yet possible, the Apple Watch already offers useful functions for diabetics, for example in combination with third-party systems.