The Use of an Energy Monitor in the Management of Diabetes: A Pilot Study

Background: This study evaluated the use of an accelerometer-based device in helping to manage blood glucose levels (BGLs) in people with diabetes mellitus. Methods: Five people with diabetes were given a triaxial accelerometer-based device (Energy Monitor) that measured energy levels associated with activities of daily living. For 3 months, they were required to wear the device and to continue with their usual diabetes therapy. The body mass index (BMI) and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA(1c)) were recorded to assess any potential improvement in blood glucose control. The relationship between BGL and measured energy level was also investigated. Results: Overall, there was a significant reduction of HbA(1c) from 7.48 +/- 1.21% to 6.98 +/- 1.44% (P < 0.05). There was no significant change in BMI. It was also found that higher energy levels resulted in much lower fluctuations in BGL change between meals compared to low energy levels. Moreover, the weekly mean activity score showed an increase in activity levels from the second week to the final week. Conclusions: This pilot study demonstrated that the Energy Monitor could improve the management of diabetes by allowing people with diabetes to view and manage daily physical activity in addition to their usual diabetes therapy.