Post Prandial Blood Sugar (PPBS)
Sample Type
Blood
Tube Type
Fluoride Tube
Fasting Required
2 hours after meal
Lab
Serum
Overview
The Post Prandial Blood Sugar (PPBS) test measures blood glucose levels 2 hours after a meal. It is used to evaluate how the body responds to glucose intake and is particularly useful in diagnosing and managing:
Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1 & 2)
Impaired glucose tolerance (IGT)
Monitoring glucose control in diabetic patients
This test reflects the body’s insulin response and is often ordered along with Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) and HbA1c for a complete glycemic assessment.
Test Result Interpretation
Blood Glucose Level (2 Hours After Meal) | Glucose Range (mg/dL) | Interpretation | Possible Causes / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
Normal | < 140 mg/dL | Normal post-meal glucose metabolism | Healthy insulin response |
Prediabetes / Impaired Glucose Tolerance | 140 – 199 mg/dL | Borderline; risk of developing diabetes | Reduced insulin sensitivity |
Diabetes Mellitus | ≥ 200 mg/dL | Indicative of diabetes | Confirm with repeat test or HbA1c |
Hypoglycemia (Rare Post-Meal) | < 70 mg/dL | Abnormally low blood sugar | Excess insulin, insulinoma, medication overdose |
Risk Assessment
The test should be conducted exactly 2 hours after the start of a normal meal or a standard 75g glucose load (if under glucose challenge testing).
Important for treatment monitoring in diabetic patients on medication or insulin.
A consistently high PPBS despite normal FBS may indicate postprandial hyperglycemia, which increases cardiovascular risk.