Blood Glucose 2 hrs Postprandial

• Overview:

What is this test?

• This laboratory test is performed on a blood sample to measure the levels of glucose after two hours of having a meal. Normally, glucose levels return to normal within 2 hours after having a meal. If the glucose levels are still high, it may help in diagnosing diabetes.

Why is this test performed?

• This test is performed:

1. To help in the diagnosis of type-I and type-II diabetes mellitus
2. To screen for gestational diabetes
3. To detect the complications from diabetes
4. To monitor the efficacy of anti-diabetic treatment.

• Sample collection: A blood sample from vein is collected after 2 hours of introducing food in the body. It is collected by a health care professional
• The sample is sent to the laboratory for analysis.

1. How to prepare for this test?

An adequate meal should be taken 2 hours prior to the test. Inform your doctor about the use of all prescribed and non-prescribed medicines before the test. Wear a short-sleeved shirt to aid the collection of sample.

2. What are the risk factors for diabetes?

Following condition may increase your risk to develop diabetes:

• Obesity
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Family history of diabetes
• Hypertension
• More than 45 years of age

3. What are the risks of this test?

Collecting blood from a vein is a very easy procedure and pose only minimum risk, including:

• Bruising
• Bleeding
• Infection

4. What are the symptoms of high blood sugar?

• Increased thirst
• Frequent urination
• Blurring of vision
• Fatigue
• Weakness

5. What are other causes of high blood glucose?

• Hyperthyroidism
• Acromegaly
• Chronic kidney disease
• Steroid therapy
• Stress
• Cushing syndrome
• Pancreatitis

6. What are the causes of low blood glucose?

Following conditions may cause low blood glucose levels:

• Liver disease
• Alcohol abuse
• Adrenal insufficiency
• Hypothyroidism
• Starvation
• Insulin overuse
• Kidney disease
• Severe infections

Normal range for 2 hour postprandial glucose:

Adults (Below 50 years): Less than 140 mg/dL

Older adults (Above 50 years): Less than 150mg/dL

• Interpretation of test results:
• If glucose levels two hours after the administration of food are between 140-200mg/dL, it may indicate pre-diabetes
• If glucose levels two hours after the administration of food are greater than 200mg/dL, it may indicate diabetes mellitus because the pancreas may not be producing proper amounts of insulin.

• You should get tested:

1. To rule out diabetes or other insulin-related disorders
2. If you have the symptoms of high blood glucose
3. If you are pregnant
4. To monitor the efficacy of anti-diabetic treatment.