Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – March 27, 2026 – In the latest edition of the popular weekly health column “Living Well with Diabetes”, Dr. Annie Tan, Malaysian endocrinologist and certified Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) physician, answers a common reader question: “Is a continuous glucose monitor worth it, or is finger-pricking still enough?”
The column examines how Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGM) can revolutionise daily diabetes management and how they can be integrated with both Western and TCM approaches.
Key Insights from the Column
From a Western medicine perspective, CGMs provide real-time glucose readings, trends, and alerts for highs and lows without the need for constant finger sticks. They help users identify patterns related to food, activity, stress, and sleep, potentially reducing the risk of hypoglycaemia, improving time-in-range, and lowering A1C levels. Additional benefits include the ability to make proactive adjustments and share data with care teams or family members. However, drawbacks such as cost, possible skin irritation from sensors, alarm fatigue, and the occasional need for calibration or backup finger sticks are also discussed. CGMs are particularly valuable for people on insulin or those experiencing frequent glucose fluctuations.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) viewpoint, while CGM is a modern technology, it can complement TCM syndrome differentiation by providing objective data on how lifestyle factors affect “Xiao Ke” (wasting-thirst syndrome) patterns, such as Yin deficiency, heat, or dampness. Glucose fluctuations may reflect imbalances in spleen Qi, kidney Yin, or liver Qi stagnation. TCM encourages using CGM data mindfully alongside practices that stabilise Qi and body fluids, including consistent meal timing and calming exercises like Tai Chi. The insights can help guide personalised dietary or herbal adjustments under professional guidance.
Integration of both approaches: Many patients successfully combine CGM insights with TCM’s emphasis on holistic balance — using glucose trends to refine warm, spleen-supportive meals or to optimise Tai Chi and Qigong sessions. Dr. Tan advises readers to discuss with their doctor whether a CGM is suitable for their needs. When used alongside strong lifestyle foundations, CGM can empower more confident, data-driven self-management.
“Continuous Glucose Monitors offer a powerful window into your body’s daily responses,” said Dr. Annie Tan. “By combining real-time data from Western technology with TCM’s holistic understanding of Qi balance and pattern differentiation, people with diabetes can make smarter daily choices and achieve better overall control.”
This column is part of the ongoing 20-week series “Living Well with Diabetes”, which provides practical, everyday guidance by blending Western clinical guidelines (including the Malaysian Clinical Practice Guidelines on Management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus) with TCM principles.
About Sante Wellness TCM Pte Ltd
Sante Wellness TCM Pte Ltd is a wellness centre specialising in Traditional Chinese Medicine services, including meridian therapy and holistic care. For more information, visit www.sante-wellness.com.
About Fu Neng Yuan Sdn Bhd
Fu Neng Yuan Sdn Bhd is associated with innovative health solutions, including Low Frequency Pulse Therapy. For more details, visit fnyglobal.asia.
The full column is now available in print and digital editions. Readers are encouraged to follow the weekly series for more useful advice on living well with diabetes.
The column is for informational purposes only and does not replace personalised medical advice. Readers should always consult their doctors or qualified registered TCM practitioners before starting or changing any diabetes management tools.