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Hello and welcome to Spectator Out Loud.

I'm Lyndon Kemkaren, part of the Spectator's broadcast team.

And each week we choose three

pieces from the magazine and ask our writers to read them aloud. Coming up on the podcast this

week, Isabel Hardman examines our curious obsession with glucose monitoring gadgets. Paul Wood

wonders what exactly did go on between Putin and Prigugin.

And Alexandra Shulman shares the contents of her weekly diary.

First up, Isabel Hardman.

At £300 ago, the Zoe is a reassuringly expensive accessory.

It has a recognisable logo and even had a 200,000 strong waiting list at

one point. That wouldn't be so unusual if Zoe was a must-have handbag or jewellery, but it is a

continuous glucose monitor that you stick to your arm. Continuous glucose monitors have been available to diabetics for a few years,

but now non-diabetics without any particular reason to worry about their pancreas are also getting in

on the act. Like the fear of gluten a few years ago, glucose levels have gone from something only

those with a diagnosed medical condition ever think about to a widespread obsession. There are many people who now worry that unless they eat a pair

with peanut butter or drink a cup of vinegar before their lunch, they might end up with elevated

glucose levels, which could have a range of damaging effects. The vinegar and peanut butter are suggestions, or hacks, from glucose influencer, the glucose

goddess, Jesse in Shalsepe, who promises to help you cut cravings, get your energy back

and feel amazing.

Glucose monitors are also part of the latest wave of dietary devices and health wearables.

Gone are the days when a fitbit seemed space age. Now you can hack your metabolism with a

...