Blood Sugar Unfiltered
Real Talk. Real Food. Real Life with Type 2 Diabetes
Russ Powell, MS, RD, LD, BC-ADM, CDCES | Diabetes Nutrition Expert
You’ve been told to “cut carbs,” “lose weight,” or “just eat better” but no one explained what that actually means for your life, your schedule, or your body.
Welcome to Blood Sugar Unfiltered, the podcast that cuts through the confusion and gives you real strategies for living well with type 2 diabetes, prediabetes, and insulin resistance.
Hosted by Russ Powell, a leading voice in diabetes nutrition, women’s health, and blood sugar coaching, each episode helps you understand your A1c, master meal planning, and use CGM insights to eat with confidence not confusion.
Whether you’re newly diagnosed or years in, you’ll walk away with food freedom, clarity, and the tools to lower your blood sugar without burning out.
Subscribe for real talk, real food, and real life with diabetes.
Blood Sugar Unfiltered
CGM Confessions: When the Numbers Don’t Add Up
Ever had your CGM tell you one thing while your fingerstick says something completely different? In this episode of Blood Sugar Unfiltered, I share a real story of when my sensor started running consistently high and how it sent me spiraling with unnecessary corrections, frustration, and confusion.
We’ll talk about:
- Why CGMs can sometimes feel “off” compared to fingersticks
- FDA accuracy standards explained in plain English
- How circulation, hydration, and compression lows affect readings
- What to do when your sensor readings don’t make sense
- When to trust your body and when to call for a replacement
Whether you’re new to CGMs or have been wearing one for years, this conversation will help you understand the quirks of the tech and remind you: the goal is patterns, not perfection.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
✔️ Why fingersticks and CGM numbers don’t always match
✔️ The simple “15 rule” for checking accuracy
✔️ Common sensor issues like compression lows and hydration gaps
✔️ Practical steps when your CGM feels unreliable
✔️ How to reframe frustration and focus on long-term patterns
Connect With Me
If you’ve ever had a wild CGM vs. fingerstick difference, I’d love to hear it!
📲 DM me on Instagram: @balanced.bloodsugar.rd
📧 Email: contact@russpowellnutrition.com
Want help making peace with your CGM data and your blood sugar? Explore my programs here: russpowellnutrition.com
Support & Insurance Options
I accept most major health plans including Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS), Anthem, and UnitedHealthcare (UHC). You can also use FSA/HSA benefits, and I offer budget-friendly self-pay options for coaching and programs.