Express cholesterol analyzers: review of the best devices for home use

A modern person needs to know and maintain his cholesterol at normal levels. Too many and often terrible things are written about him. There are categories of citizens who do not have the opportunity to constantly visit laboratories and then expect the results to arrive the next day. So the main prerequisite for purchasing such a device is saving time. And this applies not only to pensioners and sick people.

The current pace of life does not allow us to visit the laboratory as often as we would like. Lack of time is the scourge of modern society. There is only one conclusion: you need to have your own mini-laboratory at home.

What is the name of the cholesterol measuring device? Cholesterometer, lipidometer, biochemical blood analyzer. This is an excellent alternative to laboratory research. They provide data within a few minutes. Thus, the devices are biochemical portable analyzers - devices for measuring cholesterol.

Who needs a cholesterol test?

This is important for those who are at risk: patients with heart pathologies, diabetics, people with pathologies of the liver, kidneys and thyroid gland. They always have an increased risk of stroke, heart attack, atherosclerosis, etc.

Also at risk:

• obese people;
• patients with a history of stroke or heart attack;
• smokers;
• patients over 50 years of age or with hereditary hypercholesterolemia.

It is also important to measure cholesterol to monitor the treatment received. It is insidious in that it often does not make itself known until a catastrophe occurs, and many find out about its presence by accident.

A device for measuring cholesterol (cholesterol) in such cases is the optimal solution. The threat of complications can thus be pushed back. Cholesterolemia and diabetes are frequent companions. Therefore, it is often necessary to immediately determine the level of glycemia and cholesterolemia.

A huge advantage of gadgets is that almost all models sold are designed to measure several indicators simultaneously. If in the laboratory test results can be obtained only after 24 hours, when using such devices for measuring cholesterol at home, the results will be ready in 4-6 minutes. This is especially true for liver pathologies.

Types of devices

The most popular devices with high accuracy of indicators are:

1. Easy Touch. It is a glucometer for measuring sugar and cholesterol. The kit includes three types of test strips. The device stores the results of the latest measurements in memory.
2. Multicare-in . The device allows you to check your cholesterol, sugar and triglyceride levels. The device comes with a special chip and a piercing device. The removable housing allows for thorough cleaning of the device.
3. AccutrendPlus . Determines the concentration of cholesterol, sugar and lactates. The device is connected to a computer and stores the latest 110 results in its own memory.
4. Triage MeterPro. This analyzer of critical conditions urgently detects exacerbations of cardiac pathologies.

Accutrend Plus

Easy Touch

Multicare-in

Excess cholesterol does not appear immediately. A home device for monitoring its level will allow you to check indicators and monitor their dynamics. The meter is able to promptly detect a disease that is fraught with serious complications. The device is easy to use, and the results are clear within a few minutes.

The meter is simply necessary not only for those who are at risk, but also for people whose relatives experienced heart disease at an early age.

Rules for choosing an analyzer

The choice of a cholesterol meter, a device for measuring cholesterol levels in the blood, must begin with familiarization with its technical and functional characteristics. When purchasing, check the device for strength and the presence of cracks. The size of the buttons should be large enough, which is especially important for older people. The design of the device for measuring sugar and cholesterol most often resembles a mobile phone, only with a large screen.

The device must have internal memory. It is necessary for maintaining an electronic diary. This is convenient for tracking indicators while dieting or taking medications.

The size of the device is also important: a compact one is easier and more convenient to carry. It is worth considering the time needed to get results. It's good if it doesn't exceed three minutes. If you need more time, buy another analyzer. Despite the popularity of devices with test strips, it is now better to purchase models with plastic chips. These are contact plates that do not require constant replacement. But they are noticeably more expensive.

The ability to save the result in the device’s memory is important for the attending physician in order to control the dynamics of the tests.

An important indicator of the optimality of a device is its configuration. It’s good if it has special handles for piercing. It is desirable that the needle has an adjustable height. Energy consumption is another important quality. It is better that the device lasts for a longer time.

A home cholesterol measuring device should have a simple interface. This is especially true for older people. It is always more difficult for them to master technical innovations.

When purchasing a device for measuring cholesterol at home, you also need to pay attention to the reliability of the manufacturer - it is better to buy more well-known brands that are of high quality and accurate in assembly and results. Please note that there is a warranty period and a service center nearby.

The price of the device and consumables, their availability for sale is also an important aspect of the choice. Remembering these criteria is better than buying an expensive or cheap analyzer without looking.

The operating principles of a lipidometer and a glucometer are similar. Therefore, they produce 2-in-1 devices for measuring glucose and cholesterol.

Choosing the right device

In order for a measuring electronic analyzer to produce correct results, its selection must be approached responsibly, taking into account several important points. The device should be light, small, but at the same time easy to use. The pharmaceutical market today offers a wide range of cholesterol meters, which are sometimes equipped with unnecessary functions.

If, for example, a person will only measure the level of lipids in the blood, and he is not interested in hemoglobin and sugar levels, it is better to choose a model without unnecessary options. Many not always necessary functions only consume battery power every time you turn them on, ultimately leading to distorted measurement results.

The device must be accompanied by instructions for use, containing not only technical characteristics and rules of use, but also standards for blood parameters. Typically, manufacturers indicate the minimum and maximum allowable amounts of cholesterol, but for a particular patient, these levels must be set by the attending physician. Since the patient may have concomitant pathologies, which themselves change lipid levels in one direction or another.

The kit, along with the meter, should include test strips or a plastic chip, which greatly facilitates the measurement process. Without these accessories, you will not be able to determine your blood cholesterol level on your own. Also, the analyzer must be accompanied by a pen (a device for pricking a finger under sterile conditions).

The accuracy of the measurements obtained is the main factor that you need to pay attention to when purchasing. You can study reviews of people who are already using one or another model, and rely on them when choosing. The device must have the function of storing the results of past measurements. This way, each person will be able to independently control the dynamics of treatment if, for example, he takes pills prescribed by a doctor and wants to track whether there is a result.

Another important point is that the measuring device must be covered by a warranty, so that in case of failure or breakdown, the device can be returned or replaced. To avoid the unpleasant situation when the analyzer you brought home stops working, you need to purchase such things from reliable suppliers, for example, from a good pharmacy.

What it is?

Test strips are necessary to apply the required amount of blood to them. Their action is like a litmus test. Its ends are impregnated with a special reagent that reacts with blood plasma containing lipoproteins.

As the reaction begins, the color of the strip changes. The result is checked according to the table attached to the device. The edges of the strip must not be touched. Sebum will distort the results. These strips are inserted into the device, preferably right before the procedure. They should be stored in factory-sealed containers in a cool, dry place. You only need to remove the strips with dry hands; the finger to be pierced should also be dry and clean. Remember their shelf life is from 6 months to a year.

The instructions often contain information about coding test tapes. What does it mean? Each batch of included strips has its own specific code. It depends on the microdoses of the reagent applied to them. Therefore, the device must be configured specifically for this test strip code, otherwise the result will be incorrect. This is somewhat reminiscent of gasoline numbers for different cars.

Measuring cholesterol - how to prepare for the procedure

The optimal time for the procedure is the morning hours after waking up. This rule is connected with the need to refrain from eating before measurement. The forced fasting interval is 8–12 hours and is associated with metabolic processes, the breakdown of fats in particular, which can distort the result. The remaining set of rules for determining cholesterol correctly includes restrictions on:

• eating fatty, smoked or salty foods for three days before the procedure;
• stress, nervous tension;
• water, juices, other drinks one hour before measurement;
• smoking – it is advisable to give up this bad habit altogether.

A separate situation relates to patients undergoing drug therapy. A number of medications can distort the true cholesterol content in the body. A consultation with a specialized doctor will help here.

How to measure cholesterol at home?

Like any analysis, the rapid test requires a little preparation. Doctors advise following the instructions supplied with the cholesterol measuring device.

Algorithm of actions for measurement:

1. The device must be configured in advance.
2. Hands should be washed with soap. It is better to prepare tools for piercing, alcohol and cotton wool in advance. Remove the test strip from the tube.
3. Insert the lancet into the pen and charge it.
4. Turn on the device.
5. Place the test strip in the special hole.
6. Wipe your index finger with alcohol and prick with an automatic lancet. When a drop of blood appears, bring it to the analyzing part of the strip and lower it onto the strip.
7. Cover your finger with an alcohol swab.
8. Wait the required time for the result. The time usually takes from 5 to 10 seconds.

Advantages and disadvantages

One of the main advantages of using blood cholesterol measuring devices is the speed of analysis. The patient receives the result 1-3 minutes after using the device. The ease of use of the gadget is also a plus. The person is not required to have any special knowledge or skills. The advantages also include the convenience of the device. You can use it at a convenient time and not only at home. It is only important to observe sterility when measuring cholesterol.

However, despite a number of significant advantages, measuring devices also have disadvantages. According to doctors, the first of them is that it is not always possible to obtain an accurate result. Mostly the data fluctuates within 10%. Another disadvantage of the devices is the need to constantly purchase test strips. In addition, a device for measuring cholesterol concentration is quite expensive.

Easy Touch GcHb

EasyTouch GcHb is a very famous analyzer for checking three indicators - cholesterol, glucose and hemoglobin. It is also used in medical institutions. Manufacturer: Taiwan. Made of gray plastic, has a large screen. The dimensions of the device are 88 x 64 x 22 mm, weight – 60 g, memory for 300 measurements, procedure time – 2.5 minutes (cholesterol) and 6 seconds (glucose and uric acid levels).

Price – 4.7 thousand rubles. At the bottom right there are two control buttons.

Manufacturers offer several EasyTouch models - GC, GCU.

GCU is a compact blood analyzer for glucose, cholesterol and uric acid. Manufacturer – Taiwan. It includes test strips for each parameter plus 25 lancets for punctures.

EasyTouch GC – detects cholesterol and glucose. Can store 200 measurements. Doctors themselves give good reviews about this model.

Several types of cholesterol measuring devices

Of course, such devices are useful and make life easier for people suffering from atherosclerosis, cardiovascular pathologies and diabetes. Which model is better to choose? Below are the most famous and functional devices that have gained popularity among patients.

Recently, many manufacturers have been advertising devices for self-determination of glucose and cholesterol in the blood.

EasyTouch

People who have already used it described the EasyTouch device for self-monitoring of cholesterol in the blood as convenient and compact. The device is equipped with the function of measuring two blood parameters - cholesterol and glucose.

The electrochemical measurement method allows you to get by with a minimum volume of blood, and after applying the biomaterial to the test strip, glucose readings will be ready within 6 seconds, and cholesterol readings after 150 seconds. The EasyTouch device stores the latest measurement results in memory, which allows you to monitor the progress of therapy over time.

It comes with batteries, an automatic lancet, an instruction sheet, and test strips for measuring glucose (10 pieces) and cholesterol (2 pieces). The device is packed in a handbag, and for the convenience of monitoring the indicators, it also comes with a self-monitoring diary for the patient.

MultiCare in

The Multicare In device allows you to monitor your glucose, cholesterol and triglyceride levels at home. One drop of blood applied to the test strip is enough for the device to produce a result in a fairly short time. Biochemical analysis is carried out using two technologies:

How to lower cholesterol at home

• amperometric – determines glucose levels;
• reflectometric – for monitoring triglycerides and cholesterol levels in the blood.

A digital chip is installed outside, the device itself is compact, but equipped with a convenient wide display. If a test strip is already inserted, the machine will automatically turn on and begin analysis. If you need to stop the measurement, you can press the “Reset” button and the test strip will be automatically removed.

Multicare In stores the latest 500 measurement results in memory and is able to index the average sugar reading for the last 7, 14, 21 and 28 days. This data can be transferred to a personal computer to facilitate monitoring of treatment over time. To carry out antiseptic treatment, simply remove the lower part of the housing.

Accutrend Plus

An analyzer for home use from a German manufacturer is characterized by fast measurement, accurate readings and ease of use. It allows you to determine the levels of total sugar, cholesterol, lactic acid and triglycerides contained in the blood plasma. The measurement procedure is standard, using test strips, the time for issuing results is as follows:

• total sugar – 12 seconds;
• cholesterol and triglycerides – 180 seconds;
• lactic acid – 60 seconds.

The device allows you to save the last 100 measurements, while it records the date and time of the procedure performed

CardioChek

The device, called CardioChek, is portable, compact and reliable. It works exclusively with monostrips and allows you to evaluate blood levels of total cholesterol, high-density lipoproteins, triglycerides and total sugar. After applying a drop of blood to the control strip, the result will be visible after one to two minutes.

The analyzer stores up to 30 last measurements for each type in the built-in memory, indicating the time and date of measurement. The result can be read in mg/dL or mmol/L. The device is equipped with a simple and clear menu, a bright and wide display. 3 minutes after completion of the measurement, the device will turn off itself if the person forgot to do this - this saves battery power.

Accutrend Plus

Accutrend plus is the most popular analyzer in Russia due to the fact that it has many functions and is easy to use. Manufactured in Germany by RocheDiagnostics. The device can be used to determine the full lipid spectrum, hemoglobin and glucose levels, and blood lactate.

Analogues do not determine lactate. The results can be recorded in electronic format.

Its equipment is modest - there are no lancets, but it has a large memory - up to 400 measurements. The screen is medium, the dimensions are 15 cm. Its cost varies by region from 8 to 10 thousand rubles.

How to choose a meter

When choosing, you should consider the time you need to spend measuring cholesterol

When choosing a cholesterol meter, you need to consider the following aspects:

It is necessary to check the design of the device itself. There should be no cracks and the structure should feel durable to the touch;

In some cases, it is worth paying attention to the size of the buttons. In old age, vision may fail and seeing small details becomes more difficult;

Availability of internal memory. The internal memory in such devices is necessary to keep a diary. This is necessary in order to see the dynamics of changes in cholesterol in the body, provided that the device is individual in use;

It is important to consider the size of the device. Since this device is for everyday use, its size plays an important role. If you have an active lifestyle, you must always have the device at hand; its compact size will be more convenient;

When choosing, you should consider the time you need to spend measuring cholesterol. The optimal time for measurement is considered to be from 2.5 to 3 minutes. If the time measured is not in this range, then it is worth purchasing a different model;

You should choose models that do not use test strips. Such devices use permanent contact plates instead of test material. It does not require replacement, however, such devices are much more expensive than analogues with test strips;

Possibility of outputting test results in digital format. This is necessary so that the doctor who examines the patient can view the dynamics throughout the course of treatment. In the digital version, you can see not only a general blood test, but also some advanced types;

When choosing a device, it is necessary to take into account the equipment. Good models usually have special handles for piercing. They are necessary to obtain the required amount of blood for the test;

It is especially important to consider how much energy the device needs for long-term operation. Most devices are built in such a way that the batteries can be changed.

You can find various devices in pharmacies:

1. Element Multi. The device shows results after two to three minutes. The analysis results comply with ISO standards. The device memory supports more than 100 of the latest results. As a result of the test, indicators of total cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, low-density lipoproteins and high-density lipoproteins will be visible.
2. Easy Touch. The device can determine not only the level of total cholesterol, but also indicators of glucose, hemoglobin and lipoproteins of various densities.
3. Accutrend +. This device is the most popular on the Russian market. This device has gained popularity due to the fact that it has a large number of functions and is easy to use. The device can be used to determine triglycerides, cholesterol, low and high density lipoproteins, hemoglobin and glucose levels. What distinguishes it from its analogues is the ability to determine the level of lactate in the blood. After measurement, all results can be transferred to electronic format.
4. Multicare in. This model is popular for its compactness. Due to such compactness, we had to abandon some functions that are available analogues on the market. For example, the device cannot determine the level of hemoglobin in the blood.

Cardio Check

“CardioChek” is considered an advanced device because it can determine sugar, total cholesterol, HDL, ketones, and triglycerides. It has a stylish design and a liquid crystal display.

Total memory – 150 results. Test tapes are encoded automatically. Price – about 6.5 thousand rubles. Analysis time is 1 minute for any test. The work is based on the principle of photometry.

Choosing the right device

When choosing a device, it is recommended to consider the following features:

1. Accuracy of results. The higher this indicator, the better. The error of the device is indicated in the device passport.
2. Compactness. Small dimensions make the device more convenient to use. There are also fewer problems during storage and transportation.

3. 
   Ease of use is important for older people. It should also be noted that the more options and functions, the higher the power consumption of the device.

4. The test strips included are the elements necessary for measurements. Also, the modern market offers models in which instead of test strips there is a plastic chip. Such an analyzer for determining cholesterol will cost a little more, but is much easier to use.
5. Recording measurements into memory. The function has the ability to save results for statistics. Some models can be connected to a computer to print data.
6. Availability of lancets for pricking fingers. The element allows you to adjust the depth of the puncture and reduces pain.

7. 
   Manufacturer. It is better to purchase models from well-known brands that have proven themselves to be the best. It is important to have service centers in the city.

Multifunctional varieties of cholesterol analyzers can measure both hemoglobin and glucose levels in the blood.

Multi Care-in

Multi Care-in – popular for its compactness. Measures triglycerides, cholesterol, glucose. It differs from other devices by the presence of 4 alarm clocks. This means calculating weekly averages (28, 21, 14, 7 days). No tape coding required. The image is large and clear. Analysis time – 5-30 seconds.

Memory for 500 measurements. The price of Multi Care-in is up to 5.5 thousand rubles. Country of origin: Italy. Switching on occurs automatically when a test strip is inserted. Reviews about this model are very positive, the device is reliable, lasts a long time and does not break. The set is complete.

Can be connected to a laptop or PC - it has a special connector. Reading accuracy: 95%.

Doctor Approved Manufacturers

Devices for determining cholesterol are produced mainly in China and Korea. Some of them are also produced in European countries and the United States of America. But such products are rarely imported and such devices are more expensive. Each household device that determines vital biochemical indicators requires regular testing. To do this, a warranty card is attached to it, during the period of which you can carry out a free test to determine the adequacy of the work or the necessary repairs.

Accutrend plus

This device for measuring cholesterol and sugar allows diabetics, gout patients and people with atherosclerotic vascular occlusion to control their condition. To measure deviations from the norm, a quantitative method is used. There is a separate test strip for each indicator. A scarifier is included.

"Easy Touch" device

The glucometer has a built-in timer, the setting of which will allow you not to miss a repeat test.
He specializes in lipid panel analyses. The machine is equipped with a timer that reminds the patient of the need to repeat the test. Easy touch measures LDL and VLDL using a spectrophotometric method. The device also requires regular testing and calibration.

Multicare-in

This express analyzer for monitoring indicators can measure blood biochemistry using amperometric and refractometric methods. This ensures accurate results even with minor deviations from the norm. Patients who have used it note the reliability of the device and ease of operation. And the “3 in 1” principle allows you to get a more complete picture of the patient’s condition.

Cardiochek device

This portable device measures low and very low density lipoproteins, triglycerides, sugars, creatinine, ketones and glycosylated hemoglobin. These functions are sufficient to obtain comprehensive data on the condition of patients suffering from atherosclerosis of the vascular walls, renal and liver failure, diabetes mellitus and anemia. Cardiochek is also widely used in hospital settings.

Free Style Optium

This American device can only measure blood glucose and ketone bodies. Although this is not cholesterol itself, they take part in its synthesis. Economical, weighs only 42 grams, one battery is enough for operation. The display is large, the numbers are enlarged.

The device turns on and off by itself. Measurement time - 10 seconds, glucose - after 5 seconds. Memory for 450 measurements, measurement error is only about 5%. The set is complete. It differs from other devices in that it has a built-in speaker and can emit sound signals, which is important for people with poor eyesight. Judging by the reviews, the device is reliable.

It is known that portable honey. Cholesterol measuring devices are constantly being improved. A lipidometer is in development that will be built into smart watches. The resulting data will be visible not only to the patient, but can also be transmitted to the attending physician. This is a prospect for the near future.

The cost of a biochemical blood test varies from 250 to 1 thousand rubles. across different regions. Therefore, even the most expensive device will pay for itself within 7-10 measurements.

Indications for glucose and cholesterol control

The main indications for using a glucometer are diabetes mellitus, and constant monitoring of cholesterol levels is necessary in the following groups of patients, regardless of the presence of diabetes mellitus:

• people with overweight and/or obesity;
• patients with coronary heart disease;
• persons who have suffered a myocardial infarction or cerebral stroke;
• smokers;
• patients over 50 years of age;
• patients with hereditary forms of hypercholesterolemia.

Most popular devices

It is recommended to purchase blood cholesterol meters from trusted outlets: pharmacies, clinics, etc. The following devices are most popular among the population:

1. Easy Touch. The multifunctional device is used not only to measure cholesterol, but also glucose and hemoglobin. The level of substances is determined using test strips. All results are recorded in the equipment’s memory, which allows you to accumulate statistics and make the right decisions in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The instrument error is less than 5%. It is possible to connect to a computer.

2. 
   Multicare-in. The multifunctional device measures cholesterol, hemoglobin and triglyceride levels. The kit includes test strips, a special chip, and a lancet for puncture. How to measure cholesterol, glucose and hemoglobin? All you need to do is prick your finger and apply a drop of blood to the test strip or chip. After a few seconds, the analysis result is displayed on the display.

3. Accutrend+. Another biochemical model designed to control cholesterol and lactate levels in blood plasma. The device memory allows you to save up to 110 readings. The device connects to a PC and allows you to print out the measurements taken. Constant monitoring of the levels of various substances in the blood helps to avoid many problems.
4. Element Multi. This device measures several indicators at once: cholesterol, glucose, triglycerides and low- and high-density lipoproteins. The last indicator is also important when monitoring your own health.

Method of use

For accurate results, fresh blood is needed, so a finger prick is done immediately before measurements. For better flow to your fingers, you can stretch your hands or place them under warm water, but then wipe them dry. The lancets included with the tester are automatic and sterile; some offer a function for adjusting the puncture depth. The resulting drop of blood is applied to a strip and then inserted into the analyzer. After a short time, the result will be displayed on the display. Disposable lancets and tests will need to be purchased over time. Some testers come with a self-monitoring diary. It will help diabetics keep their sugar levels under control and respond in time to its increase.