Garmin has recently patented a system for long-term blood glucose tracking, which utilizes non-invasive pulse spectrometry to monitor glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels through their smartwatches. This method contrasts significantly with traditional blood glucose monitors that require blood samples. The patent, filed in May, describes how Garmin’s smartwatch could measure HbA1c levels, reflecting the average blood glucose concentration over time. HbA1c is crucial in managing diabetes because it provides a long-term view of an individual’s glucose levels, remaining relatively stable despite short-term fluctuations due to meals or activities.
This feature would benefit users by providing continuous, pain-free monitoring of their glucose trends. Currently, users can link Garmin watches to Dexcom blood glucose monitors for real-time glucose levels. However, Garmin’s new patent hints at a preventive approach, primarily aimed at alerting prediabetics about rising glucose levels. This would encourage healthier lifestyle choices over time, gradually reducing HbA1c.
One challenge in implementing this technology is ensuring accuracy. The patent notes that conventional fitness devices often struggle due to external pressure from watch bands, which can affect blood vessel readings. To address this, Garmin’s system must compensate for such variables to provide reliable results. As the race for non-invasive glucose monitoring heats up, other major players like Samsung and Apple have also expressed intentions to develop similar technologies.
Nevertheless, no smartwatch today has successfully integrated accurate blood glucose tracking due to inherent challenges. Garmin’s pursuit of this innovation indicates its commitment to improving health and fitness monitoring, with the hope that future models will be equipped with advanced capabilities for health management.