Glucose Post Prandial/ Post Prandial Blood Sugar (PPBS) Test

Post prandial blood sugar test is done to diagnose patients suspected to be suffering from diabetes. This test is done 2 hrs after having the meal. Though HbA1c is a preferred test to diagnose diabetes due to several advantages but blood glucose estimation is the test of choice for diagnosis in patients of hemoglobin variants, sickle cell anemia, pregnancy (2nd & 3rd trimester), postpartum (immediately after pregnancy), G6PD deficiency, HIV, hemodialysis, recent blood loss, transfusion, erythropoeitin therapy etc. In the above-mentioned cases HbA1c is not used to diagnose diabetes.

Post prandial blood sugar test measures blood glucose levels in plasma of the patient 2 hrs after having meal.

Post prandial blood sugar test requires a blood sample. A tourniquet (elastic) band is placed tightly on the upper arm. The patient is then asked to make a fist. This helps in the build-up of blood filling the veins. The skin is disinfected before needle insertion and the blood sample is collected in vacutainer.

High PPBS results (above a specific threshold) suggest your body may not be using insulin effectively, potentially indicating prediabetes or diabetes. Conversely, very low PPBS results might be uncommon and could warrant further investigation with your doctor.

If the post-prandial blood sugar is lower than normal (below 139 mg/dL), it is called hypoglycemia. If it is above the normal range (above 180–200 mg/dL), it is called hyperglycemia.

The post-prandial glucose test values are as follows, however, they may vary according to the methodology used:

• Normal: 139 mg/ dL and less
• Impaired: 140-199 mg/ dL
• Diabetes mellites: 200 and above

Here's how to prepare for a post-prandial glucose test:

• Follow specific meal instructions given by your doctor or healthcare provider
• Avoid smoking and strenuous exercise
• Eat the designated meal and have your blood drawn exactly two hours later for accurate results
• Inform your clinician about medications you may be taking

Post-prandial hyperglycemia could be a risk factor for type 2 diabetes mellitus and other complications of diabetes. 

If your glucose post-prandial test is not normal, additional tests may be suggested by your doctor. These include:

• Urine Glucose Test
• Blood Glucose - Fasting
• Glycated Hemoglobin Test/HbA1c test
• Oral Glucose Tolerance Test

• Glucose PP
• Glucose - Post Prandial
• Post Prandial Blood Glucose (PPBG) Test
• Post Prandial Blood Sugar (PPBS) Test

The word "post-prandial" means after a meal. Therefore, post-prandial glucose (PPG) levels determine the levels of blood glucose after one has eaten a meal. The PPG profile is dependent on the amount of carbohydrates absorbed, insulin and glucagon secretion, and their combined effects on glucose metabolism in the liver. This is also affected by the timing, content, and quantity of the meal that was taken.

The post-prandial glucose test is recommended if you experience the following symptoms:

• Sudden weight loss without any apparent efforts to lose weight, such as diet or exercise.
• Excessive thirst even after being properly hydrated or in colder months.
• Excessive hunger even after eating proper meals
• Having to urinate very often