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Glucose measured 1 hour post-meal in plasma (postprandial plasma glucose)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test checks how your body processes glucose (sugar) after eating. It helps assess how well your blood sugar is managed over time.

Quick summary

["This test helps identify how your body handles sugar after meals, which is important for diabetes management."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
42611-4
Short code
Glucose 1h p Lac PO Ur-mCnc
Synonyms
Glucose 1h p Lac PO Ur-mCnc
Category
glucose
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Ref low
70
Ref high
100
Critical range
50 N/A – 400 N/A
Fasting
true
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82947
SNOMED
260395008
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to evaluate your blood sugar control, especially if you have or are at risk for diabetes. It can also help monitor how well medications or lifestyle changes are working to manage your blood sugar levels.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll typically fast for 8–12 hours before the test, but this specific test is done after eating. Your provider will give you specific instructions to follow, such as timing your meal and when to take the test. Bring any medications you’re taking with you.

How the Test Is Performed

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The blood is collected in a special tube and sent to a lab for analysis using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). This method measures the exact amount of glucose in your plasma.

What the Results Mean

Your results will show the glucose level in your plasma one hour after eating. While specific reference ranges vary by lab, higher than expected levels may indicate poor glucose tolerance or diabetes, while lower levels could suggest hypoglycemia or other metabolic issues.

Reference range

Fasting: 70-100 mg/dLN/A

Specimen: urine

Fasting for 8-12 hours required. Water is permitted. Avoid chewing gum and smoking before the test.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Frequently asked questions

What Does This Test Detect or Assess?
This test helps diagnose or monitor diabetes, prediabetes, or insulin resistance. It can also be used to assess how well glucose is managed in people with known diabetes, especially those on insulin or other medications.
How Does This Test Compare to Other Glucose Tests?
Unlike fasting glucose tests, this test measures glucose after eating, which provides insight into how your body handles sugar during digestion. It’s often used alongside other tests, like hemoglobin A1c, for a full picture of blood sugar control.
Can This Test Be Done at Home?
No, this test requires a blood draw in a clinical setting. While home glucose monitors can check blood sugar levels, they typically measure capillary blood rather than plasma and may not use the same precise method as this lab test.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy