Are Wearables Helping or Hurting?
Aug 9, 2023 | Words by Gabe Yanez
Too Much Data
Technology's role is undeniable as we all try to optimize our health. Whether it is a Fitbit, Apple Watch, or a Whoop strap, we all have something on our wrists nowadays that is supposed to help us reach our goals.
But are these devices helping?
Wearable health devices and Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) promise insights into our well-being, from blood sugar fluctuations to stress levels. But can access to all this data ironically harm more than it helps?
Let's break it down.
The Irony Of Wearable Anxiety
The allure of CGMs lies in tracking blood sugar levels, a vital aspect of weight management and wellness. Yet, normal fluctuations are a fact of life, and obsessing over these might be counterproductive.
Recent studies show inconsistencies in CGMs' readings, adding unnecessary stress to the health-conscious consumer.
At first glance, stress trackers, monitoring heart rate and oxygen levels, seem like valuable tools. However, constant reminders of stress might feed into anxiety, and over-obsession with food intake can lead to unhealthy eating habits that are also counterproductive.
That said, the issue isn't with the technology itself but with how we use it. Wearable tech offers fascinating insights into our health but should never replace our innate ability to sense when something's off.
The key is finding a balanced approach. Use these devices as supplementary tools, recognizing that they serve us but shouldn’t govern us.
Remember, in pursuing optimal health, the focus should be on reducing stress instead of adding to it because of what some device tells you about your health.
One Thing To Try This Week
Unplug
If you use a wearable or a CGM, try to completely unplug this week. Go about your usual week without constantly checking how many steps you take, what your HRV says about your stress levels, or how much your blood sugar spikes after a meal (unless you need it for medical reasons, of course).
You might be surprised how nice it is to just go a few days without trying to make heads or tails of all the data you get from some of these wearables.
