Keeping a Simple Log

A log is a simple record of your checks. One reading is like one photo. A log is like a short movie, made of many photos in order. It shows patterns that one reading cannot show.

For each check, write the date, the time and the reading. Write the units too, like 130 mg/dL (7.2 mmol/L). The units tell you which scale your meter uses.

A log page has four columns: Date, Time, Reading and Note. Each reading is a dot: lime for in range, amber with an up arrow for high. One reading: only the first line is written. A log: five lines fill in, one after another. Patterns: a magnifier moves down the page and rings the two lines whose readings are amber and high.

Add short notes about food, activity or how you felt. For example: ate late, felt tired. Notes help explain why a number changed.

Always write down a low, any reading under 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L). Tell your team about it too.

Note cards such as ate late and felt tired sort into two piles: add a short note, or write it down and tell your team.

Many meters and apps save your readings and can build a log for you. Ask your care team how often to check and which format they like.

Keep your log on paper or on a screen. Bring it to every visit so your team can plan with you.

A slider moves between a paper log and a meter or app that saves each reading.

Key takeaways

• Every entry needs the date, time and reading.
• Notes on food, activity or feelings explain your numbers.
• A log shows patterns that one reading cannot.

Try it

Today, find where your meter or app saves readings, or start a simple notebook page.