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Insulin, Serum/Plasma — Postprandial, Substance Concentration

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

Measures insulin in a blood sample drawn after a meal to help evaluate how the body responds to glucose.

Quick summary

["This test shows how much insulin your body releases after eating and may help assess glucose-control problems."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
93727-6
Short code
Insulin p meal SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
Insulin p meal SerPl-sCnc
Category
hormone
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
2.6
Ref high
24.9
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
83525
SNOMED
413618004
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This test measures the amount of insulin in serum or plasma from a blood sample taken after a meal. Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas that helps glucose enter cells for energy.

Why might I need this test?

A postprandial insulin test may be used to evaluate insulin production and the body's response to glucose. It can provide information when assessing type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, or unusual insulin levels.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected at the time specified for the postprandial test, usually after you eat a meal or a standardized test drink. The sample is processed into serum or plasma, and the laboratory measures its insulin concentration.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's instructions about the meal, its size, and when the blood will be drawn. Record the time you ate, and do not change insulin or other diabetes medicines unless your clinician tells you to do so.

Reference range

Fasting: 2.6-24.9 μIU/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Postprandial insulin

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a routine fasting insulin test?
No. A postprandial insulin test is timed after a meal, while a fasting insulin test is measured after a period without food. The result must be interpreted according to the test's timing.
Do I need to eat a special meal before this test?
Sometimes, especially if the test is part of a standardized glucose and insulin assessment. Follow the exact meal and timing instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory.
Why is my insulin result measured along with glucose?
Insulin and glucose are interpreted together to show how the body handles glucose after eating. A insulin level that appears abnormal in isolation may have a different meaning when glucose and the test timing are considered.
  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