Blood Oxygen Level Meter



A suitable alternative to blood gas testing, the pulse oximeter is a cheaper alternative to going to a lab to get your blood drawn, especially if you don’t like needles or have enough healthcare insurance. With a pulse oximeter, you have a simple and painless way to determine your blood oxygen level so you can prevent health issues before they occur. Here are a few tips on what to look for in the best pulse oximeter and a few reviews to help you start shopping.

Zacurate 500BL - Best Blood Oxygen Meter

Using FDA and CE standards, the Zacurate 500BL is a popular choice among health professionals. It was designed for sports enthusiasts and pilots who need to find out the Pulse Rate (PR) and Blood Oxygen Saturation Levels (Sp02) while on the go. This is a handy device that has a large LED display that faces you allowing you to read it easily.

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  • A wide variety of blood oxygen level meter options are available to you, such as ce. You can also choose from 1years, 2 years blood oxygen level meter, as well as from 1 year blood oxygen level meter, and whether blood oxygen level meter is online technical support, or free spare parts.
  • Pulse Oximeter Fingertip, Blood Oxygen Saturation Monitor for Pulse Rate, Heart Rate Monitor and SpO2 Levels with OLED Screen Display Batteries and Lanyard Included 1 Count (Pack of 1) 4.7 out of 5.
You only need to clip it to your finger and turn it on to read it easily and with its small size, you can easily carry it around. The Zacurate 500BL is accurate for SpO2 reading up to +/- 2% following FDA standards. It also comes with an infrared shield protecting the device from the environment to guarantee that you are getting accurate readings.

Battery changes are a quick and easy with the snap-off battery cover so you can remove and replace batteries without any hassle. The Zacurate 500BL has a finger chamber that uses the Smart Spring System so it can accommodate a wide variety of finger sizes. It also comes with a convenient lanyard, 2 AAA batteries allowing you to use it as soon as you receive it, and a twelve-month warranty.

  • Easy and intuitive to use
  • You get a reading in under ten seconds
  • Comes with a sturdy nylon pouch
Cons
  • Not good for people who need a quick reading
  • Readout doesn’t always work

Innovo Deluxe iP900AP - Best Finger Pulse Oximeter for Nurses

The oximeter is a simple device that measures the amount of oxygen in the blood. It’s used to determine the oxygen saturation level of the body. A regular reading is between 90 and 95 percent, but if the level is too high, it can sign an underlying medical condition. A blood oxygen level test is used to check how well your lungs are working and measure the acid-base balance in your blood. The test usually includes the following measurements: Oxygen content (O2CT). This measures the amount of oxygen in the blood. Oxygen saturation (O2Sat).

If you are looking for a reliable and accurate oximeter, the Innovo Deluxe iP900AP contains both the Perfusion Index (PI) and Plethysmograph in the same unit. It can determine when is the best time to take a reading so you won’t have to wonder if your reading is accurate. The PI will tell you how strong your pulse is notifying you if you are too cold or not position correctly.

The plethysmograph gives you a visual representation of your heartbeat with a continual waveform notifying you of a good blood flow. The display on the Innovo is multi-directional giving you six different layouts to choose from adding to the unit’s versatility and ease of use. You can also set an auditory alarm to notify you when your rates are beyond the set limits.

This oximeter is designed for sports and aviation use and can be used in recreational settings, sports settings, and home use. It might not work on kids or adults with small hands. The unit also includes 2 AAA batteries, a lanyard for added convenience, and a one-year manufacturer warranty.

  • Highly detailed instruction manual
  • Easy to read the screen with a very accurate oximeter
  • Comfortable and easy to use
Cons
  • Very finicky to use
  • Takes a little time to get a reading

Zacurate Pro Series 500DL - Best Oximeter for Doctors and Respiratory Therapists

Created as an updated 50DL, the Zacurate Pro Series 500DL allows you to reliably and accurately find out your Pulse Rate, Pulse Strength, and your Sp02. With a design aimed for use by pilots and sports enthusiasts, it has a large LED display that faces you for easy readings in under ten seconds. The high-quality finger chamber is constructed of medical grade silicone that is latex free and hypoallergenic.

You get easy readings by just clipping the device to your finger and turning it on with the press of a button. The Sp02 accuracy is +/- 2% following FDA and CD standards for health professional use. Hardware and software have also been upgraded and it is now the only LED pulse oximeter that displays up to 100% for SpO2 value.

The Zacurate Pro Series 500DL also has easy battery removal and replacement with a fast snap-off battery cover. It is also able to accommodate a wide variety of finger sizes with the Smart Spring System. This portable device also comes with a lanyard, 2 AAA batteries, and a silicon cover that will protect it from dirt and damage.

  • Numbers in the reading are large
  • Easy to use and your finger fits comfortably
  • Accurate readings are great for those taking care of loved ones at home
Cons
  • Oxygen levels run lower than what you see at the doctor’s office
  • Has an old-fashioned display

Santamedical Generation 2 - Best Pulse Oximeter for Sleep Apnea

Capable of fitting a variety of finger sizes, the Santamedical Oximeter provides results in less than ten seconds. This is an accurate and reliable device that shows your results in real time.

Blood oxygen meter reviews
Affordable and precise, the FDA approved Santamedical Oximeter is a finger clamp that is self-adjusting. This is an easy to operate device that works with just the push of a button. Not only will it show the Pulse Rate and Sp02, but it uses a plethysmograph device which measures the change in the volume of your blood.

This easy to use device gives you results in four different directions and includes six modes allowing you to view the display from any angle. The Santamedical is a very portable device thanks to its small size and the bright LED display allows you to view your results even in low light. You also get over thirty hours of continuous monitoring for each set of batteries you use.

Equipped with a neck or wrist strap, you can easily take this unit with you when you are on the go. This is the perfect device to use for spot checks of blood oxygen and pulse rates when doing outdoor or recreational activities. Other features include an automatic power off and battery level indicator, and it comes with a user manual, 2 AAA batteries, and a one-year warranty.

  • You receive your accurate results in less than ten seconds
  • Only 1-2% off the doctor’s office results
  • Great device for anyone that deals with breathing issues
Cons
  • Needs a case or cover for protection
  • The battery compartment doesn’t work well

AccuMed CMS-50D - Best Pediatric Oximeter

Have all your vitals at your fingertips with the Accumed CMS-50D Oximeter. This is an easy and quick device to operate by sampling aligning your finger with the red light and turning the oximeter on. Your results are available in just ten seconds giving you a non-invasive and painless reading of your pulse rate and blood oxygen level.

Not only do you get your Sp02 level and Pulse rate, but the AccuMed also displays your pulse intensity as a bar graph while a pulse wave shows you the strength of your pulse. After five seconds of inactivity, the AccuMed powers off automatically giving you up to 32 continuous hours of battery life. This lightweight and portable design weighs only 50 grams and easily travels with a convenient travel case or on the included lanyard for easy access.

The bright display on the AccuMed is clear, prevents ambient light washout, and rotates automatically by detecting your hand movement. This is a great device for travelers, pilots, or athletic enthusiasts. It fits all finger sizes from a four-year-old up to an adult.

  • A very reliable unit that is pretty much foolproof
  • High-quality medical instrument
  • Modes make it easy to get results quickly
Cons
  • The acrylic display can crack easily
  • Silicone case stretches out and won’t stay on the device

TempIR Finger Pulse Oximeter

The user-friendly TempIR Finger Pulse Oximeter is a dedicated Sp02 and pulse oximeter device. Designed specifically for these function, it has advanced technology that is solely focused on these functions to give you a more precise reading. The display shows both readings in just a few seconds by using a non-invasive sensor to analyze the blood in your finger, plus it fits your finger perfectly with the spring system that is self-adjusting.

Helping to enact early medical intervention that can stop future health problems, the TempIR has a large, multi-directional color display allowing you to easily see results from any angle. This portable and small device comes with a protective pouch making it easy to take it with you wherever you go. It also uses photoplethysmography or waveforms as well as a perfusion index to confirm that your Pulse Rate and Sp02 has been taken properly.

This affordable and robust device is constructed with high-density ABS plastic and comes with a lanyard for easy access. The TempIR is easy to operate and only need a one button touch to set with alarms to indicate either a low or high reading. This is a great device for sports enthusiast as well as for home use.

  • Accurate when you compare it to a doctor’s office measurements
  • Very portable and easy to take to the gym
  • Reliable and precise with some great features
Cons
  • Has a slow response rate
  • Battery cover falls off easily

MeasuPro OX200 - Best Oxygen Monitor for Home Use

Receiving your results in just three seconds, the MeasuPro Pulse Oximeter is great for sports enthusiasts or those that travel a lot. Providing an accurate reading of your heart rate and blood oxygen saturation levels, you only need to turn it on and insert your finger into the clip to get an accurate reading within +/- 2%. Your results are displayed clearly on the large OLED screen that rotates allowing you six different angles to see the readings.

Results are provided through a waveform called plethysmograph and a bar graph that gives you a numerical reading. You also get a perfusion index reading that tells you what your pulse strength is. This unit is constructed with a silicone material that is latex free and hypoallergenic.

This lightweight and compact device is also very durable and comes with a fingertip clip that is cushioned fitting all sized fingers without any pain. Simply press one button to find out your results. The MeasuPro also comes with a lanyard so you have easy access to readings whenever you need it.

  • Perfect for use at home
  • Reads the same as what they use in the hospital
  • Well-built and will survive a few falls
Cons
  • Plastic housing makes it seem cheap
  • Back cover breaks easily making it hard to keep on

Buying Guide

How Pulse Oximetry Devices Work

A pulse oximeter works in a very simple way. By just clipping the device onto your finger, a light from the oximeter is emitted into your finger. The emitted light has two different wavelengths of light that are absorbed by the oxygen molecules and hemoglobin that they are attached to and measured by a sensor on the other side.

If the sensor is calibrated correctly, it can distinguish how many hemoglobin cells are in the blood that is passing the nearest artery and how many of the cells have an attached. This reading is called your peripheral capillary oxygen saturation also known as SpO2.

Benefits of Using a Pulse Oximeter

Fitness Monitoring

If you have ever been out of shape, you know how difficult it can be to maintain oxygen levels when you have sudden heavy physical demands placed on your body. When you use a pulse oximetry device when you work out, you can push your body farther without worrying out about getting sick or placing your body to the point of complete exhaustion.

High Altitude Sports

Athletes in high altitude sports run the risk of oxygen deprivation so it is important to make sure you are aware of issues before they become a serious health problem. This includes sports like hang gliding, skydiving, or mountain climbing where being able to determine arterial blood oxygen levels is important and could save your life.

COPD Management

Those that suffer from COPD where their lungs have become damaged and their body can no longer make repairs. With this condition, it is important to monitor blood oxygen levels to know when your lungs aren’t giving you enough oxygen and therapy or medication may be needed.

Asthma Patient Care

Asthma attacks can also be debilitating and a pulse oximeter can let you know when your airways are becoming restricted before it becomes a serious issue. This allows you to use your inhaler before and asthmas attack happens.

Pulmonary Patients

There are also other rare pulmonary conditions that affect the lungs and are life-threatening. A pulse oximeter can benefit these patients by alerting them to changes in their arterial blood oxygen levels a serious complication happens.

Low Maintenance

After they are calibrated, a pulse oximeter will work the same for the next few years. After a startup check has been performed, their circuitry is never needed again.

Low Cost

A pulse oximeter is usually very affordable with few costing over $50. Plus, the majority will come with a warranty. This makes the pulse oximeter one of the least expensive home health monitor devices you can find.

Less Invasive Than Blood Gas Testing

The less invasive the better for most people, especially if the thought of needles causes them anxiety. Although it can’t tell you what your carbon dioxide levels are, a pulse oximeter can confirm if your oxygen levels are low when you are not feeling well letting you know it might be time to head to the hospital for treatment.

Accurate Pulse Reading

If you have been counting your heartbeat with your two fingers, you are probably not getting the most reliable results. A pulse oximeter can give you more accurate and reliable results, especially if you are having serious issues like a racing heart or overexertion.

How to Use a Pulse Oximeter Properly

Although oximeters are very easy to use, there are certain things you should avoid to make sure you get the best reading possible:

  • Fingernail polish can hinder getting a correct reading, you may want to use an earlobe.
  • Make sure to take your readings where there are low-light or normal conditions and avoid sunlight and bright overhead lighting.
  • Don’t move while you are testing since body movement including sneezing and shivering can affect getting a correct reading.

Remember that if you have circulatory or respiratory conditions, the readings you get from your pulse oximeter will need to be interpreted differently. You can find that information with the device’s user manual.

And, always make sure to talk to your healthcare provider to on how to use the results you get from your pulse oximeter to correctly determine what is going on with your health.

What to Look for in a Pulse Oximetry Device

Accuracy

As you are shopping, you will want to find a pulse oximeter that is guaranteed within 2% (plus or minus) of actual SpO2 levels. It also needs to be accurate up to 70% oxygen saturation. This means that even if your arterial oxygen levels aren’t perfect, the pulse oximeter is still giving an accurate reading and you will know if you need to seek medical attention.

Warning Systems

You will also want to look for three warning systems that include:

  • Irregular Heartbeat – a warning alarm should sound if your heartbeat isn’t constant and steady including any heart arrhythmias that may be of concern.
  • Low SpO2 – even though you will see a low number on the screen, you should also have a warning beep for low SpO2 concentrations. Especially since you can also have blurred vision or dizziness when you are suffering from inadequate O2 concentrations.
  • Low Battery – this is also important, so the battery won’t just die when you don’t expect, especially for those that rely on an oximeter for disease management.

Portability

Being able to carry your device with is important for most people who need to monitor their SpO2 with an oximeter. Those using it because they are a pilot or sports enthusiast, it is still handy to have the device in your pocket or around your neck.

Lightweight

Since you are looking for portability, having a unit that may be small in size but heavy and uncomfortable to use doesn’t make it a great device to take with you all the time. A lightweight unit may be easier for you to carry on you, especially on a handy lanyard. Keep in mind though that the weight of the oximeter does affect how durable it is, especially since heavier units can get damaged when they are accidentally dropped.

Durability

The difference between a cheap piece of equipment and something very durable can also mean the difference between life and death. You want a pulse oximeter that is durable enough to take a drop to the ground, being immersed in water, or have protection against humidity. When a pulse oximeter is damaged in any way, it can fail or give you inaccurate readings which can be life-threatening.

Fitment

If you have large fingers, an adjustable oximeter is a great choice, especially if you find non-adjustable units uncomfortable. You may find that you have to squeeze too hard or not hard enough with non-adjustable oximeters. With an adjustable brand, you are able to choose your comfort level so you aren’t dreading have testing throughout the day.

Automatically-Activated

Devices that turn on automatically when you insert a finger or toe is helpful, especially if you are weak from a low oxygen level and monitor your Sp02 frequently meaning the difference between life and death in some cases.

Bright Visible Display

Having a backlit display and font color combinations are great features to have in a pulse oximeter so you can see in the bad light. Adjustable brightness helps to work in any lighting condition while displays that have multiple viewing angles are very convenient so you aren’t straining to read the device.

Conclusion

Oxygen

Since a pulse oximeter is incredibly accurate and inexpensive, having the ability to check your pulse and Sp02 at home is a no-brainer. Especially for those suffering from potential health problems, monitoring your heart rate and oxygen levels can make a big difference in how large a serious medical condition can become. This handy tool could mean the difference between taking some medication or ending up in the hospital for an extended stay.

Blood oxygen meter finger

Your Fitbit smartwatch uses sensors to estimate your blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) while you sleep.

The Fitbit SpO2 feature is intended for general wellness purposes only and should not be used or relied on for any medical purposes. Consult your health care professional about any questions or health issues you may have.
What is SpO2?

Your blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) is the percentage of your blood that’s saturated with, or contains, oxygen. The oxygen levels in your blood tend to remain relatively constant, even during exercise and sleep.

How can I see my SpO2 reading?

Add SpO2 to your Fitbit device

Ionic, Sense, and Versa series

To collect SpO2 data, install an SpO2 clock face (available on Ionic, Sense, and Versa series) or the SpO2 app (available on Sense and Versa 3).

To install an SpO2 clock face:

  1. With your Fitbit device nearby, in the Fitbit app, tap the Today tab > your profile picture > your device image.
  2. Tap Clock Faces > All Clocks.
  3. Find the SpO2 clock face category. You might have to swipe up to find it. Tap View All to see the complete list of available clock faces.
  4. Tap the clock face you want to install > Select > Install.

The SpO2 clock faces are only available in certain countries at this time. If you don’t see them in the Clock Face Gallery, the feature isn’t available in your region. For more information on the availability of Fitbit SpO2, see fitbit.com.

If you have trouble adding an SpO2 clock face to your Fitbit device, make sure you update your watch to run the latest version of Fitbit OS. For instructions, see How do I update my Fitbit device?

To install the SpO2 app (Sense and Versa 3 only):

  1. With your Fitbit device nearby, in the Fitbit app, tap the Today tab > your profile picture > your device image.
  2. Tap Apps > All Apps.
  3. Tap the magnifying glass icon and search for “SpO2 Tracker”.
  4. In the results, tap SpO2 Tracker > Install.
Blood oxygen level meter walgreens

The SpO2 app doesn’t appear as an app on your watch; instead, it runs in the background to track your SpO2 data. View your results in the Fitbit app.

Note that your watch must be running Fitbit OS 5.1 to install the SpO2 app. For more information on updating your watch, see How do I update my Fitbit device?

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The Fitbit SpO2 app is automatically added for users in select countries. For more information on updating your tracker, see How do I update my Fitbit device? For more information on the availability of Fitbit SpO2, see fitbit.com.

If you removed the SpO2 app from your device, reinstall it in the Fitbit app on your phone:

  1. With your Fitbit device nearby, in the Fitbit app, tap the Today tab > your profile picture > your device image.
  2. Tap Apps > All Apps.
  3. In the list of apps, tap SpO2 > Install.

See your most recent SpO2 levels on your device

Ionic, Sense, and Versa series

See your nightly SpO2 data on an SpO2 clock face:

  1. Wear your Fitbit device to bed, and sync it in the morning.
  2. Check your clock face to see your average SpO2 level and the range of values detected.

It may take around an hour for your SpO2 values to appear on the clock face after you sync your device. The clock face shows data for your most recent sleep session. If your sleep session is split into 2 separate logs or you take a long nap, the clock face updates to show data for the most recent sleep session after your device syncs with the Fitbit app.

Charge 4
  1. Wear your Fitbit device to bed. Wear your device securely so that the back of your device is in contact with your skin.
  2. In the morning, swipe up from the clock face. See your average resting SpO2 level on the SpO2 tile.

It may take around an hour for your SpO2 values to appear after you wake up. The SpO2 tile shows data for your most recent sleep session. If your sleep session is split into 2 separate logs or you take a long nap, the tile updates to show data for the most recent sleep session.

Track your SpO2 trends in the Fitbit app

See your SpO2 trends in the Health Metrics tile in the Fitbit app on your phone. The Health Metrics tile is available with Fitbit Charge 4, Fitbit Sense, Fitbit Versa 2, and Fitbit Versa 3. To see historical data, upgrade to Fitbit Premium. For other devices, a Fitbit Premium subscription is required to see health metrics data.

  1. Wear your device for at least a full day, including to sleep at night.
  2. In the morning, open the Fitbit app and tap the Health Metrics tile.
  3. Swipe up to find the Oxygen Saturation (SpO2) tile.

Note that for Ionic, Versa, Versa Lite Edition, and Versa 2, SpO2 data is only collected when you use an SpO2 clock face. For a list of compatible SpO2 clock faces, see Add SpO2 to your Fitbit device. For Sense and Versa 3 you can install either an SpO2 clock face or the SpO2 app to collect SpO2 data. Charge 4 users must have the SpO2 app installed.

How does my Fitbit device measure my SpO2 level?

Your Fitbit device measures your SpO2 levels while you sleep using red and infrared sensors on the back of the device. The sensors shine red and infrared light onto your skin and blood vessels, and use the reflected light that bounces back to estimate how much oxygen is in your blood:

  • Richly oxygenated blood reflects more red light than infrared light.
  • Poorly oxygenated blood reflects more infrared light than red light.

Note that you might see the red and infrared sensors continue to blink for around 30 minutes after you wake up.

What should I know about SpO2 values?

SpO2 values naturally vary, and nighttime SpO2 is usually lower than daytime SpO2 due to the fact that your breathing rate is usually slower during sleep. In general, SpO2 values during sleep are typically above 90%. The SpO2 values presented are an estimate and in general can be influenced by your activity, altitude, and overall health.

Why did I receive a low SpO2 value?

You may notice an SpO2 value that seems lower than expected. This can be due to:

  • Your arm position and movement
  • The position and fit of your Fitbit device
  • Limited blood flow to the surface of the skin
  • Differences in anatomical body structures can also impact the accuracy of your Fitbit device’s sensors.

Several factors can affect your body's ability to maintain blood oxygen levels. These include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • There must be enough oxygen in the air you are breathing.
  • Your lungs must be able to inhale air containing oxygen and exhale carbon dioxide.
  • Your bloodstream must be able to carry oxygen throughout your body.

An issue with any of these factors could impact your SpO2 values. For example, in high altitudes the air is less dense and therefore contains less oxygen. If you experience low SpO2 values while at high altitudes you may want to consider descending to a lower altitude.

Blood Oxygen Level Meter

Certain health problems can also impact the body's ability to take in oxygen. These factors can be compounded under more extreme circumstances such as during intensive exercise.

You should not use or rely on the SpO2 reading on your Fitbit device for any medical purposes. If you have concerns about your health, you should consult your healthcare provider.

If you see the message “SpO2 not installed” on your clock face, install the SpO2 Tracker app. For instructions, see Add SpO2 to your Fitbit device.

If you see dashed lines on the clock face or SpO2 tile, a message that the SpO2 data couldn’t be read, or missing data in the Health Metrics tile in the Fitbit app on your phone, keep in mind the following:

  • Your device doesn’t retroactively measure your SpO2 values. When you start using Fitbit SpO2, you’ll see dashed lines until after your next sleep session.
  • You must get at least 3 hours of quality sleep. Data is only collected when you’re still. If you move a lot during your sleep or the sleep session is too short, you might not get SpO2 data.
  • Charge your Fitbit device to make sure it’s able to collect data throughout your entire sleep session. Note that you may have to charge your Fitbit device more often when using an SpO2 clock face or app.
  • You must sync your Fitbit device with the Fitbit app before the clock shows your SpO2 data. Note that it may take around an hour for your SpO2 values to appear after you sync your device. For troubleshooting syncing, see Why won't my Fitbit device sync?
  • Turning off any SpO2 clock face or app permissions can cause the feature to stop functioning. For instructions on adjusting permissions, see How do I install and manage apps on my Fitbit device?
  • Your Fitbit device must be able to consistently track your SpO2 data:
    • Wear your device slightly higher on your wrist.
    • Make sure your device is in contact with your skin.
    • Your device should be snug but not constricting.
    • Tattooed skin can impact the accuracy of the red and infrared sensors on your Fitbit device.
Does using an SpO2 clock face or app affect the battery life of my Fitbit device?

You may have to charge your Fitbit device more often when collecting SpO2 data.

How do I remove SpO2 tracking from my Fitbit device?Ionic, Sense, and Versa series

Normal Oxygen Levels For Elderly

To remove SpO2 tracking, change your clock face to one not listed in the SpO2 clock face category:

  1. With your device nearby, in the Fitbit app, tap the Today tab > your profile picture > your device image.
  2. Tap Clock Faces > All Clocks.
  3. Browse the available clock faces. Tap the clock face you want and tap Select to install it.
Sense and Versa 3

If you installed the SpO2 app, uninstall it:

  1. With your device nearby, in the Fitbit app, tap the Today tab > your profile picture > your device image.
  2. Tap Apps > SpO2 Tracker > Remove > Uninstall.
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Blood Oxygen Level Meter In Store

  1. With your device nearby, in the Fitbit app, tap the Today tab > your profile picture > your device image.
  2. Tap Apps > SpO2 > Remove > Uninstall.

Blood Oxygen Level Meters

What’s the difference between estimated oxygen variability and SpO2?

Estimated oxygen variation (EOV) is an estimate of the changes in your blood oxygen saturation levels. For instructions, see How do I track my estimated oxygen variation in the Fitbit app? The EOV feature is designed to see specific events overnight when your blood oxygen saturation levels varied, which could indicate breathing disturbances.

Blood Oxygen Level Meter Amazon

Fitbit SpO2 estimates your average blood oxygen saturation levels and range while you sleep. It’s designed to see potential changes to your fitness and wellness.

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