There are 75 strip makers located in the US. The FDA requires that they meet certain guidelines, they have a tolerance of a percentage under/over count of 100. I've read where the limit is somewhere between 10-20%. Humidity & other things will affect the results. Chemical residue on your testing area will affect your results. It is recommended you wash your hands, I personally wash my hands (chance of chemicals in soap may alter results) & then use an alcohol wipe before I test. I test on my left hand, blood flows through your left arm first (my mind works in mysterious ways). I change my lancet usually every 10 tests (2-3 days).
I buy 'Relion' strips, lancets & meter from Walmart cheaper & just as good as the $1.20 Bayer strips, also have changed insulin to 'Relion' found I get the same results as before but the cost is dramatically lower, monthly retail costs $450+, now below $50 (before I was being pushed into the 'doughnut' hole). I pay $.18 each and test 4 times daily, just prior to meals & just prior to my injection at bedtime (Dr's order). Average counts of under 100 are normal, over 100 is considered pre-diabetic. Counts below 80 can be a concern, too low considered hypoglycemic and can be potentially dangerous, above 120 consistently can also be very harmful, kidney, heart, liver & other vital organ failure. It's normal to have your count jump above 145 after meals, depends on the amount & type of carbs you have ingested.
Some carbs regulate your count, some spike your count into dangerous levels. Processed sugars, sweets, food cause the most count spikes. Weight & age affect it. Beans, oatmeal, whole milk, 100% whole wheat are examples of good carb intake. Some fruits & even some vegetables will spike it. I've found I can eat berries, leafy green vegetables, broccoli, beans including string beans. But, peas, carrots, potatoes, sweet potatoes (yams) spike it. I limit my carb intake below 90 daily, control my weight, test regularly, drink unlimited coffee (half n half only). Eat a limited amount of nuts (no more than 1/2 C daily). Your count will usually level out within 3-4 hours after meals. If you are getting readings of more than 120-130 consistently you can alter your injections, but talk to your doctor about it.
I'm on injections regularly, I had a normal A1C (latest 5.4% Oct). I have to monitor my count because I've lost weight, exercise & only eat good carbs in moderation. My count varies mostly between 75-95 (have had a 66, worry or strip). I have a scheduled appointment for an A1C in April, depending on the results & if my counts are consistently below 100 I will discuss the possibility of reducing my insulin. I also take Metformin twice daily. I drink Apple Cider Vinegar, have 2 Tbsp of Hemp Hearts, 1 Tbsp of flaxseed with either my morning & noon meal. I don't do supplements only because I've gained control & understand that some supplements while being unregulated or questionable quality control, please don't discount the chance that they may help (it's just my thing). My way works for me but may not work for you.
