What is a noninvasive glucose monitor?

The Holy Grail of glucose monitoring would be a system that will let you know your blood sugar without breaking your skin at all, called a noninvasive glucose monitor. Some devices have been developed and even sold in the United States and elsewhere, but there are really no versions available right now that are as reliable as the standard meters or the continuous glucose monitors (CGMs). Some of the ads you see on TV that say "no finger sticks" are really talking about getting blood by pricking yourself somewhere else, such as the forearm. Be sure you know what you're getting! Many companies are working hard to develop systems that will allow for noninvasive testing, because they know that millions of people around the world with diabetes will rush to their doors the minute something reliable and economical becomes available.