The Glucose Never Lies® – Details, episodes & analysis

Welcome to The Glucose Never Lies podcast

 In today’s episode, we explore a game-changing approach to glucose control—activity snacking. If you’ve ever struggled with post-meal spikes, found insulin too slow to bring down highs, or wondered how movement could help stabilise your blood glucose, this episode is for you.

I’ll be sharing the latest research on how small, frequent movements can supercharge insulin, improve time in range, and reduce glucose highs without the need for extra insulin corrections. We will discuss practical strategies such as the “3 every 30” method, which involves moving for three minutes every 30 minutes to maintain stable glucose levels. We will also cover the benefits of walking before or after meals to prevent glucose spikes and introduce the “15 by 2” rule, a simple technique to lower high glucose levels faster than waiting for correction doses to take effect.

In addition to these strategies, I will break down groundbreaking studies that demonstrate the impact of movement on glucose regulation. Whether you are living with type 1 diabetes, supporting someone who is, or simply looking to optimise your health, this episode is packed with valuable insights that you can put into action immediately.

Click here for more info and the show notes 

Welcome to The Glucose Never Lies Podcast!

In this episode, we’re laying down the fundamentals of diabetes management—the essential principles you need to understand to make informed decisions about your health. We’ll break down:

• What happens when you eat carbohydrates and how your body processes glucose
• Why insulin behaves differently in type 1 diabetes, leading to post-meal spikes
•  How physical activity supercharges insulin, making it work more effectively
• The science behind high-fat meals and why they cause insulin resistance

Whether you're living with diabetes or supporting someone who is, this episode serves as your go-to reference for making sense of the science behind glucose control. Plus, we’ll be sharing actionable strategies to help you optimize your insulin and activity levels for better outcomes.

Click here for more info and the show notes.

Welcome to The Glucose Neverlies Podcast. 

In this episode, we’re diving into practical strategies to optimise time in range (TIR) when using Automated Insulin Delivery (AID) systems for type 1 diabetes. Managing blood glucose levels can be unpredictable, but AID systems have transformed diabetes care by automating insulin delivery in smarter, more responsive ways. However, achieving the best possible outcomes still requires understanding key strategies, fine-tuning your approach, and making small adjustments that have a big impact.

In this episode, we’ll explore ten essential tips that can help improve your time in range, covering everything from pre-bolus strategies and exercise adjustments to high-fat meal management, CGM optimisation, and insulin site rotation. Whether you’re new to AID or looking to refine your approach, these evidence-based tips will help you navigate everyday challenges and make the most of your system’s capabilities.

We’ll break down the importance of balanced meals combined with post-meal activity, how to adjust insulin for high-fat and protein meals, and ways to prevent post-meal spikes by fine-tuning the timing and location of insulin administration. We’ll also cover exercise adjustments using the 50/50/20 and T25/T25 methods, ensuring you can keep glucose stable before, during, and after physical activity. Plus, we’ll discuss site management for insulin absorption, CGM accuracy tricks, and how to handle alcohol safely with an AID system.

As always, every person’s diabetes management is unique, so these strategies should be discussed with your healthcare team before making any changes. If you’re ready to take your AID experience to the next level, let’s get started.

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Ten Tips to Optimise Time in Range with AID Systems

Show Notes and Transcription

Welcome to The Glucose Neverlies Podcast. 

In this episode, we’re focusing on Omnipod 5, the sleek, high-tech Automated Insulin Delivery (AID) system that offers simplicity, automation, and a tubeless design. Much like Iron Man’s suit, Omnipod 5 is built for efficiency and ease, allowing for seamless insulin adjustments without the hassle of tubing. If you’re looking for a system that requires minimal user input and delivers smart automation, this could be the perfect choice for you.

Omnipod 5 uses SmartAdjust technology, an adaptive algorithm housed inside the pod itself, which adjusts insulin every five minutes to help maintain stable glucose levels. The system learns from previous insulin needs and automatically fine-tunes basal rates, making it incredibly easy to use. However, as with any powerful technology, understanding how the system works, how to optimise settings, and how to manage common challenges will help you get the best results.

In this episode, we’ll break down the SmartAdjust algorithm, discuss key starting settings, and share tips and tricks to help you maximise your time in range. We’ll also cover how to prevent and treat hypos, navigate high-fat meals like pizza, and adjust for exercise, whether you prefer a quick approach or a more structured plan.

With Omnipod 5, the first step is to survive, and then thrive. Whether you’re new to the system or fine-tuning your experience, this episode will guide you through everything you need to know to get the most out of Omnipod 5 and take your diabetes management to the next level. Let’s get started.

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Mastering Omnipod 5 – The Iron Man of AID Systems

Show Notes and Transcription

Welcome to The Glucose Neverlies Podcast. 

In this episode, we are exploring CamAPS FX, an Automated Insulin Delivery (AID) system that, much like Batman, relies on strategy, adaptability, and precise control to outsmart unpredictable glucose levels. If you’re looking for a system that allows multiple glucose targets throughout the day, advanced algorithm learning, and the ability to fine-tune your insulin delivery, then CamAPS FX might be your perfect match.

Designed for those who need tight glucose control, such as during pregnancy or when managing fluctuating insulin sensitivity, CamAPS FX is the most flexible and well-researched AID system available across all age groups. Its continuously adapting algorithm learns from your insulin needs, making it one of the most advanced tools for diabetes management. However, like all great technology, getting the best results requires understanding how the system works and applying key strategies.

In this episode, we will break down how the CamAPS FX algorithm functions, the key starting settings, and the essential tips and tricks that will help you maximise time in range. We will also explore how to prevent and manage hypos, optimise insulin delivery for high-fat meals, and adjust settings for exercise using both quick and comprehensive approaches.

With CamAPS FX, the first step is to survive, and then thrive. Whether you're new to the system or looking to fine-tune your approach, this episode will guide you through everything you need to know to master CamAPS FX and take full control of your diabetes management. Let’s get started.

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Mastering CamAPS FX – The Batman of AID Systems

Show Notes and Transcription

Welcome to The Glucose Neverlies Podcast. 

In this episode, we’re taking a deep dive into the Medtronic 780G, a powerful Automated Insulin Delivery (AID) system designed to crush after-meal highs and optimise time in range. Just like the Hulk, the 780G is strong, aggressive, and highly automated, making it one of the most proactive systems available. If you’re considering the 780G or already using it, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the most of this powerhouse system.

With its ability to automatically correct high glucose levels every five minutes, the 780G requires minimal user intervention. It features strong overnight glucose control and allows for customisable target settings. However, like any powerful tool, understanding how the SmartGuard algorithm works is key to getting the best results. In this episode, we’ll cover how the algorithm functions, how to optimise your starting settings, and practical tips and tricks to ensure smooth and effective use.

We’ll also explore strategies for preventing and treating hypos, as well as managing high-fat meals like pizza and takeaways, where SmartGuard may need a little extra help. Exercise is another important consideration, and we’ll discuss both quick adjustments and comprehensive planning methods to keep your glucose levels stable during physical activity.

Starting on an AID system can feel overwhelming, but we break it down into two simple phases: First, survive. Then, thrive. Whether you’re new to the 780G or looking to fine-tune your approach, this episode will help you harness its full potential. If you’re ready to unleash the power of the Medtronic 780G and take your diabetes management to the next level, let’s get started.

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Mastering the Medtronic 780G – The Incredible Hulk of AID Systems

Show Notes and Transcription

Welcome to The Glucose Neverlies Podcast

In today’s episode, we are exploring the Tandem t:slim X2 with Control-IQ, a system that offers great power but also requires great responsibility. If you are considering this system or already using it, this episode will guide you through everything you need to know to make the most of Control-IQ.

With its highly customisable algorithm, multiple insulin profiles, and Activity and Sleep modes, Control-IQ provides a high degree of flexibility. However, much like Spider-Man’s abilities, this power requires understanding and maintenance. We will cover how the algorithm works, the key settings you need to get started, and essential tips and tricks to help you maximise your time in range. We will also discuss strategies for preventing and treating hypoglycaemia, managing high-fat meals, and adjusting for exercise to ensure you stay in control.

Control-IQ is built on three main components: the t:slim X2 pump, Dexcom G6/G7 or Libre 2 Plus (depending on where you live), and the onboard Control-IQ algorithm. Understanding how these elements interact is crucial for optimising the system. The algorithm adjusts insulin delivery based on manually set basal rates and correction factors, which provides both automation and control. However, achieving the best results requires effort, particularly in fine-tuning the correction factor, which is key to determining how aggressively the algorithm responds to high glucose levels.

We will also explore common challenges, including how to handle high-fat meals such as pizza, how to adjust for exercise, and how to prevent hypos before they happen. Whether you prefer a quick and simple approach or a more structured plan, we will guide you through how to manage Control-IQ effectively.

If you are ready to take control like Spider-Man, let’s get started.

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Mastering t:slim with Control IQ - The Spider-Man of AID Systems

Show Notes and Transcription

Welcome to The Glucose Neverlies Podcast!

When it comes to Automated Insulin Delivery (AID) systems, there is no single "best" option, only the right one for each individual. Choosing an AID system can feel overwhelming, but with the help of my good friend, colleague, and Diabetes Nurse Extraordinaire, Louise Collins, we have transformed the decision into something much more fun: selecting a superhero.

Each AID system has its own strengths, weaknesses, and unique characteristics, making them better suited to different people and situations. Some prefer control and flexibility, like Spider-Man, while others want the sheer power and aggressive glucose correction of the Hulk. Those who favour strategic adaptability might relate more to Batman, while others may prefer the sleek, automated ease of Iron Man.

In this episode, we compare the four leading AID systems—Tandem t:slim X2, Medtronic 780G, CamAPS FX, and Omnipod 5—through the lens of the superheroes they most resemble. By the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of which system might suit your lifestyle and diabetes management style best.

Whether you value customisation, automation, or a balance of both, the key to success with any AID system is choosing the one that works best for you. Let’s dive in! 

For the detials

The Superhero guide

The Deep Dive Guide

CGM Systems Guide

Show Notes and Transcriptions

Welcome to The Glucose Never Lies® Podcast where science meets real-life experience to empower diabetes management.

Coming March 2025

Subscribe here or to your favorite Podcast provider

I’m John Pemberton. I’ve lived with type 1 diabetes since 2008 and have spent nearly 20 years mastering both the science and art of managing it. Through personal experimentation, published research, and my work as a diabetes specialist dietitian, I’ve gained deep insights into what truly makes a difference.

When my son Jude tested positive for type 1 antibodies, I realised that all the knowledge in my head is wasted if I couldn’t communicate it in a way that was clear, actionable, and easy to come back to. So I built The Glucose Never Lies® Education Programme—a free resource designed to teach diabetes management exactly as I’d want people to understand it if they were looking after my son.

After battling a functional motor disorder for many years and recently experiencing a major depressive episode, I was eventually pulled out of that hole by friends, family, and professionals who helped me get back to being me. That experience taught me the power of giving—and this podcast is my way of giving back.

My cohost, Louise Collins, is a highly experienced diabetes nurse with over 20 years in the field. She brings a wealth of knowledge and her superpower is making complex diabetes science accessible and practical for everyday life. She is the best diabetes nurse I have ever worked with, and there have been some good ones! Most importantly, she keeps me in check and on point!

Disclaimer: The information shared on The Glucose Never Lies® Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. While we discuss strategies and insights for diabetes management, this podcast is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare team before making any changes to your diabetes care plan.

Coming in March 2025

Episode 1: Introduction to AID Systems and How to Choose One

An overview of Automated Insulin Delivery (AID) systems, how they work, and key factors to consider when choosing the right one for you. We break down CGM compatibility, algorithm flexibility, and customisation options to help you make an informed decision.

Episode 2: Should I Choose the Tandem t:slim X2 with Control-IQ?

A deep dive into Control-IQ technology, how it manages glucose levels, and what makes it unique. We discuss who this system is best suited for, how to optimize settings, and potential pros and cons.

Episode 3: Should I Choose the Medtronic 780G?

Exploring the SmartGuard algorithm, its automation capabilities, and how it aggressively corrects highs. We cover who benefits most from this system, customisation options, and how it compares to other AID systems.

Episode 4: Should I Choose the CamAPS Fx?

A look at AI-driven insulin adjustments and the high level of customization offered by CamAPS Fx. We discuss how it adapts to user trends, its flexible glucose target settings, and best practices for optimisation .

Episode 5: Should I Choose the Omnipod 5?

The tubeless AID system, designed for those who want more freedom and flexibility. We explore its Adaptive Basal Rate algorithm, SmartAdjust features, and how to optimise settings for exercise and meals.

Episode 6: Ten Tips to Optimise Time in Range

A practical episode packed with expert strategies to improve glucose control using any AID system. From meal timing and exercise adjustments to CGM accuracy and site rotation, we share actionable tips to help you get the best results from your system