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postprandial blood glucose test

biochemistry

Quick Summary

The postprandial blood glucose test is a procedure used to assess how well the body metabolizes glucose, a primary sugar in the blood. This test is typically performed two hours after consuming a standard glucose solution or a meal rich in carbohydrates. A plasma glucose level exceeding 140 mg/100 ml after this period may indicate a need for a more comprehensive glucose tolerance test. This is particularly important for diagnosing conditions like diabetes mellitus, where the body's ability to regulate blood sugar is impaired, leading to higher and more prolonged glucose levels after eating. The test can also be used during pregnancy to screen for gestational diabetes.1

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