Best (and worst) health tech: Blood pressure, blood glucose monitors and more

I get my steps in, never eat processed food, sleep like a baby and splurge on an occasional yummy lemon drop martini (my favorite mix!).

I also keep track of my numbers to flag potential problems early. And a friendly reminder: An at-home device never replaces a healthcare professional, so email, call or visit your doc if you’re worried about something.

The basics

High blood pressure is nothing to mess around with. It can lead to strokes and heart attacks. 

  • The Omron M6 Comfort costs $105, has been clinically validated and uses a color-coded system to make interpreting results easy. 
  • Or, try the $109.99 Withings BPM Connect, which works with your phone, keeps stats in the app and is perfect for traveling. 

When something’s not right with your body, you often get a telltale shift in body temperature.

A smart scale like the QardioBase X ($94.95) can help make sure you keep the pounds off. It calculates BMI and body composition and offers a ton of stats to work with. Also worth checking out: The Wyze Scale X ($39.98), with its comprehensive stats and sleek looks (it works for babies and pets, too).

The next level

Want to get more serious about health tracking? Blood glucose is a key indicator of body health — and crucial for diabetics to know.

  • The Dexcom G7 and Contour Next One use pads and a phone app to tell you your levels round the clock (subscription prices vary).

I fully recommend getting yourself a dynamometer, too: Try this Gripx one or this Camry one, both for $29.99. They give you a window into muscle strength and physical health, and you can log your stats over time. The more muscle you have, the stronger and safer you’ll be as you age.

Continue reading

We may receive a commission when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.

10 Fitbit tips and tricks you need to try

Most of us made resolutions heading into the new year, like trying to live a healthier lifestyle. Tap or click here for tech resolutions that you can actually keep. Technology can help you take control of your fitness routine like never before if you need a little help. One great option is to get a fitness tracker like Fitbit.

Continue reading

The 5 best smartwatches you can buy right now

We all know the terrible feeling that comes from hearing your phone hit the ground after it’s fallen out of your pocket or hand. The thud and smack from the device hitting the tile or concrete evokes an unrivaled feeling of dread, and picking it up off the ground to find your screen has been shattered is even worse.

Continue reading