Oct 14, 2026Educational orientation for life with diabetes · Not medical advice

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Maren Alcott

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Maren Alcott

Maren Alcott is the lead presenter at DiabetesCompass. She is an AI-presented digital character. Every article Maren presents is researched and fact-checked by the DiabetesCompass editorial team against the ADA Standards of Care, peer-reviewed journals, and named clinical sources. Maren does not give medical advice — for questions about your specific situation, talk to your care team.

Articles by Maren Alcott

30 articles

Supplements and Metformin Alternatives for Blood Sugar Management

Supplements for Prediabetes and Metformin Alternatives

Evidence-based review of supplements for prediabetes and alternatives to metformin for blood sugar management, including berberine, inositol, and more.

User demonstrating the Dexcom Stelo device for glucose monitoring.

Dexcom Stelo Review: Features, Accuracy & Cost (2024)

Our Dexcom Stelo Review covers accuracy, features, cost, and real user experiences with this over-the-counter CGM for non-diabetics and prediabetes.

Comparison of Dexcom Stelo and Abbott Lingo

Dexcom Stelo vs Abbott Lingo: Which OTC CGM Is Right for You

Compare Dexcom Stelo vs Abbott Lingo to find the right OTC CGM for your needs. Learn about accuracy, features, cost, and ease of use in this detailed guide.

Comparison of OTC CGMs for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes

Best CGM for Non Diabetics: OTC Options for Prediabetes

Compare the best CGM for non diabetics including Stelo, Lingo, and Libre Rio. No prescription needed for prediabetes and type 2 without insulin.

A person calibrating a Dexcom G7 glucose monitor in a kitchen.

How to Calibrate a Dexcom G7: Step-by-Step Guide

Learn how to calibrate a Dexcom G7 with this step-by-step guide, ensuring accurate glucose monitoring for effective diabetes management.

Dexcom CGM device and smartphone app displaying glucose levels

How Does a Dexcom CGM Work: Real-Time Glucose Monitoring

Learn how a Dexcom CGM works to monitor glucose levels in real time, from sensor insertion to data transmission and alerts for diabetes management.

A healthcare professional explaining A1C levels to a patient.

A1C of 5.7: What It Means for Your Health and Next Steps

An A1C of 5.7 indicates prediabetes, meaning elevated blood sugar levels. Learn what this result means for your health and what steps to take next.

Comparison of stevia and Splenda with fresh fruits.

Stevia vs Splenda: Which Sweetener Is Better for Diabetes?

Compare stevia vs splenda for diabetes management. Learn how these sweeteners affect blood sugar, their safety profiles, and which may work better for you.

Group of people engaging in healthy activities to lower A1C.

How to Lower Your A1C Fast: Realistic Strategies

Discover how to lower your A1C fast with evidence-based dietary changes, exercise strategies, and medication adjustments guided by your care team.

Person using Abbott Lingo app for metabolic coaching

Abbott Lingo Review: Is Metabolic Coaching Worth It?

Our Abbott Lingo review examines the biosensor's metabolic coaching features, accuracy, cost, and real user experiences to help you decide if it's worth it.

Healthcare professional discussing blood sugar levels with patients.

What's a Normal Blood Sugar Level and Why It Matters

Learn what a normal blood sugar level is, why it matters for your health, and how to maintain healthy glucose ranges with practical tips.

Healthcare professional discussing microdosing GLP-1 with a patient.

Microdosing GLP-1: What It Is, Risks, and What to Know

Microdosing GLP-1 involves taking lower doses of medications like Ozempic or Mounjaro. Learn what it means, the potential risks, and what to discuss with your doctor.

A1C to blood glucose conversion chart with diabetes management tools.

A1C to Blood Glucose Conversion Chart & Calculator

Use our A1C to blood glucose conversion chart to translate your A1C results into average daily glucose levels and better understand your diabetes management.

A person experiencing nausea with Zepbound bottle

Zepbound Nausea Relief: Effective Strategies to Manage It

Discover effective Zepbound nausea relief strategies, including dietary adjustments, timing tips, and lifestyle changes to help manage this common side effect.

Comparison of Brenzavvy and Jardiance medications for diabetes.

Brenzavvy vs Jardiance: Key Comparisons for Diabetes

Compare Brenzavvy vs Jardiance for type 2 diabetes management, including effectiveness, side effects, costs, and key differences between these SGLT2 inhibitors.

Types of sugar and their impact on blood sugar levels

Types of Sugar Explained (and Which Spike Blood Sugar)

Explore the types of sugar, their sources, and how they affect blood sugar levels. Make informed dietary choices with this comprehensive guide.

Smartwatch and continuous glucose monitor comparison

Can a Smartwatch Measure Blood Sugar? What Actually Works

Can a smartwatch measure blood sugar? Learn the truth about glucose monitor watches, their limitations, and reliable alternatives like CGMs.

A person preparing a healthy meal to lower A1C levels naturally.

How to Lower A1C Naturally: Diet, Exercise & Lifestyle Tips

Learn how to lower A1C naturally through evidence-based diet changes, physical activity, sleep habits, and stress management strategies.

Various sugar substitutes and their blood sugar effects.

Sugar Substitute Guide: Which Sweeteners Spike Blood Sugar?

Discover which sugar substitute options affect blood sugar levels and which don't. Compare artificial sweeteners, sugar alcohols, and natural alternatives.

A bottle of Victoza and a calendar for 2026

Victoza Generic and Cost in 2026: What to Expect

Explore the expected costs and availability of Victoza generic options in 2026, helping patients make informed decisions about their diabetes management.

Healthcare professional and patient discussing A1C levels

A1C Conversion: What Your Number Means and How to Lower It

Learn a1c conversion to glucose levels, what your A1C number means, how to lower it, and use our interactive calculator for better diabetes management.

Doctor and patient discussion about Mounjaro and constipation.

Mounjaro and Constipation: Causes, Relief & Prevention

Learn how Mounjaro and constipation are connected, plus evidence-based strategies for relief including fiber, hydration, and when to contact your doctor.

A comparison of Stevia and Aspartame sweeteners.

Stevia vs Aspartame: Safety Comparison of Sweeteners

Stevia vs Aspartame safety comparison: evaluate the safety profiles of these two popular sweeteners to make informed choices for your health.

Healthcare professional explaining GLP-1 medications to a patient

GLP-1 Nausea: Causes, Duration, and Relief Strategies

Learn about GLP-1 nausea causes, how long it lasts, and evidence-based strategies to manage this common side effect of GLP-1 medications.

Infographic showing the relationship between A1C and average blood sugar levels.

Average Blood Sugar by A1C: Conversion Explained for Better Management

Learn how Average Blood Sugar by A1C levels correspond to each other. Understand A1C-to-glucose conversion for better diabetes management and monitoring.

A spoonful of cinnamon with diabetic-friendly foods

Does Cinnamon Lower Blood Sugar? What Clinical Trials Show

Does cinnamon lower blood sugar? This article reviews clinical trial evidence on cinnamon's potential effects on blood glucose levels in diabetes.

CGM device and prescription pad

Do You Need a Prescription for a CGM in 2026?

Learn whether you need a prescription for a CGM in 2026, including FDA regulations, over-the-counter options, and how to get one from your doctor.

A bottle of apple cider vinegar with apples and a measuring spoon.

Apple Cider Vinegar: Does It Lower Blood Sugar?

Can apple cider vinegar lower blood sugar levels? We examine the research on apple cider vinegar and glucose control for people with diabetes.

A healthcare professional discussing metformin with a patient.

Stop Metformin Cold Turkey? Understand the Risks

Learn about the potential risks and safe practices for stopping metformin cold turkey. Get informed before making changes to your medication regimen.

Healthcare professional discussing vitamins with diabetic patient

Vitamins Diabetics Should Avoid: Safety Guide

Learn which vitamins diabetics should avoid and why certain supplements may interfere with blood sugar control or diabetes medications.