I’ve been doing this for a long time although I am not a diagnosed diabetic. I can find some good deals on ebay of unused strips. Just be sure to find some that are not expired or close to expiration. Another tip: The brand sold by Wal-Mart at a fraction of the price of others also gives very good and accurate results and they are also available on ebay.
I think it is just good insurance to keep from tipping into Type II diabetes as it is so common with obesity. And keeping weight off as we age is no easy task.
So non-diabetics are using these strips to assess their condition. At their own expense. And competition is indeed keeping down the price. Sounds just right.