Smart devices have undoubtedly changed the lives of people everywhere, and fitness and health monitoring is no exception. Nowadays, wearables have evolved far beyond the basic fitness trackers they once were, boasting new technologies that can help users lead healthier lives. According to Dr. Tess Skyrme, this industry has evolved so much during the past few years it could actually become a threat to the pharmaceutical industry in the near future. In fact, some fitness and health wearables already offer users options that go beyond traditional health management.
While even basic fitness trackers have proven to be extremely useful for those hoping to lead healthier lifestyles, newer wearables are providing users with more functions and better technologies to monitor and manage their health. These smart devices can prove particularly useful to those already suffering from chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, or neurological disorders. Because these conditions often demand constant monitoring, wearables can become a quicker and more affordable alternative to traditional screening. Moreover, tech companies have also come up with devices meant to provide treatment options for users dealing with pain, nausea, and neurological disorders.
While more time is needed to transform smart devices into real treatment solutions, some wearables can already help people lead healthier lives in 2023.
Fitbit Charge 5
Despite strong competition, particularly from the Apple Watch, Fitbit Charge 5 has managed to win the title of “best all-around fitness tracker,” according to WIRED. All Fitbit devices have managed to achieve perfect balance between attractiveness, affordability, accessibility, and ease of use, but the Charge 5 also comes with other important advantages. It features a sleeker design, a vibrant AMOLED screen, and an impressive array of sensors including stress scans and electrocardiograms. Moreover, Fitbit Charge 5 also boasts a new version of Heart Rhythm Notifications that includes an FDA-cleared capability to detect atrial fibrillation.
Freestyle Libre 2
According to Healthnews, Freestyle Libre 2 is one of the best fitness and health wearables people should consider buying in 2023. This is an advanced blood glucose reading device that can prove especially useful for those suffering from diabetes. Freestyle Libre 2 allows users to measure their glucose levels with a painless scan instead of using fingersticks. The system can be used to monitor both adults and children aged 4 years and older, and it includes a device that has to be placed on the upper arm of the user. A phone sensor later analyzes the data provided by the device, giving an accurate reading.
Qardioarm Blood Pressure Monitor
Another smart device that is especially useful for those suffering from chronic diseases is the Qardioarm Blood Pressure Monitor. According to Healthnews, it stands out as the best device in its category, boasting more than 2,000 5-star reviews, an impressive feat by any standards. Designed to be placed on either the right or left arm, it can deliver highly accurate blood pressure readings directly to the user’s smartphone. When it comes to at-home blood pressure devices, the Qardioarm Blood Pressure Monitor remains unrivaled in terms of accuracy.
Apple Watch Series 8
According to WIRED, the Apple Watch Series 8 is undoubtedly the best smartwatch for iPhone users in 2023. Equipped with cutting-edge body temperature sensors specifically designed for menstrual cycle tracking, it offers a retrospective ovulation analysis and multiple associated features. The Apple Watch Series 8 also introduces new safety measures, such as Crash Detection. In the event of a severe car accident, for example, the device is capable of using advanced features, such as accelerometer, gyroscope, barometer, GPS, and microphone. If the user fails to respond within 10 seconds, the device promptly detects the crash and alerts emergency services.
Embr Wave
Embr Wave is a wrist-worn wearable device offering a multitude of benefits for those going through menopause, including better sleep, reduced anxiety, and relief from hot flashes. According to Healthcare, it is the second-best fitness and health wearable that people should consider buying in 2023. With its innovative wearable thermal technology, the Embr Wave lets users regulate their body temperature effortlessly. By simply pressing a button, those experiencing temperature control problems now have the option to live their lives more comfortably.
Conclusion
Fitness and health wearables have evolved to play a crucial role in promoting and maintaining health and overall well-being. These smart devices are not mere personal fitness companions, but they also allow users to monitor and analyze various aspects of their fitness and health in real-time. Many wearables now offer advanced health monitoring features, such as heart rate variability, stress levels, blood oxygen levels, glucose levels, and electrocardiograms (ECGs). Moreover, wearable technologies are also evolving to treat or at least manage some symptoms, including pain, nausea, and hot flashes during menopause.
