Abbott Global provides the FreeStyle Freedom Lite glucose meter. Users appreciate the large displays and compact design offered by FreeStyle. Programs offered by FreeStyle may make the choice even easier for some.
Statistics
• The blood sample size for the Freedom Lite is the smallest we have ever reviewed.
• Meter storage allows for a significant variable in acceptable temperature (-4 to 104 F)
• Features a lifetime warranty.
• Can hold up to 400 tests.
• The battery can produce up to 1,000 test results.
• Coding is not required.
Pros
As you may have detected from the statistics list above one of the key benefits to the FreeStyle Freedom Lite glucose meter is that it is currently the world best meter for the least amount of blood required for the testing process. The storage capacity for tests is not the best in the world, but surpasses many other meters. Battery life is very good although there are some that can provide up to 2,000 tests. The value of no required coding is worth a lot to many diabetics as well. This is also a very light meter making it easy to carry and store.
Cons
It is possible the FreeStyle Freedom Lite exceeds your need. There are many other meters that can offer similar results if you don’t need extensive storage of testing data or if temperature isn’t an issue for unit storage (i.e. a mild climate). If you don’t mind coding then you may not need the Freestyle Freedom Lite. On the other hand it may not provide enough of these options for your needs either. It all depends on what you see as important in your testing equipment.
Bottom Line
Like other manufacturers Abbott Global has created a website specifically for users of the FreeStyle Freedom Lite. This includes benefits such as articles related to diabetes. You can “Ask the Expert” to gain better understanding of issues related to diabetes. There is a Body Mass Index (BMI) calculator to help you with weight management goals. You will also find a diabetes dictionary featuring a glossary of terms related to the disease. The site also offers ways to increase the level of activity you engage in on a daily basis in an effort to lower your weight and provide a better glucose balance within your body.
You can also join the FreeStyle Promise program that claims to offer a $600 annual savings on testing supplies along with, “Live access to… Certified Diabetes Educators, Registered Nurses and Registered Dietitians, plus other valuable resources to make ongoing diabetes monitoring and management easy.”
Unless you live in an area where the offer is prohibited by law you can also receive a FreeStyle Freedom Lite glucose meter at no cost when you become a member of this free program. There are certain legal restrictions that you will need to consider. For instance if your blood testing equipment is paid for in whole or in part by insurance (private or federal) you will not qualify for testing supply savings when you enroll in the program.
The Freedom Lite does not have a backlight so you will need to test in a well-lit area. The design is compact and the results seem consistent. The buttons are larger than some meters and a color-coded port makes it easier to see where to place testing strips.