If there are any fellow type 1 Diabetics out there you know the problems with checking your blood sugar levels when ski touring or winter mountaineering
Fingers too cold – no blood!
Will check it next time we stop – oops forgot!
Don’t bother – others getting cold hanging about
Meter won’t work – too cold
I have managed in the past – using disposable hand heater pads in meter bag keeps it nice and warm but still a faff! I have recently tried the Abbott ‘Freestyle Libre’ system. Not in the winter but while doing my recent ML assessment. This is a sensor that you attach to your upper arm (very sticky!) A small wire goes into your arm – doesn’t hurt and constantly reads your sugar levels. Sensor is waterproof so can shower and it lasts 14 days. You have a small rechargeable reader which you just hold over it to get a blood sugar reading – works through clothing/jacket etc . You can keep the reader in your pocket and do it while on the move as often as you want. It graphs out your levels since last reading and tells you if going up, down or staying level. It can also be used by your buddy in an emergency if you show them what to do
This system is being tested by the NHS, I got the reader FOC but had to buy the sensors – they are not cheap - £50 each (2 weeks) – can claim VAT back as a diabetic. Can use them when just on trips etc if you want to reduce cost. I still carry a meter etc as a backup. Looking forward to trying it this winter