📌 What is the Insulin - Post Prandial Test?
A blood test that measures insulin levels 2 hours after a meal (postprandial).
Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps regulate blood sugar (glucose) levels.
Used to assess insulin function and diagnose conditions like diabetes, insulin resistance, and metabolic disorders.
🎯 Purpose of the Test
✅ Evaluates how the body responds to a meal by producing insulin.
✅ Helps diagnose insulin resistance, prediabetes, and type 2 diabetes.
✅ Monitors glucose metabolism in individuals with metabolic disorders.
✅ Assesses insulin production in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
✅ Detects hyperinsulinemia (excess insulin production) or insulinomas (insulin-producing tumors).
📊 Normal Ranges (May vary by laboratory and individual health conditions)
🔹 Normal Post Prandial Insulin Levels: 30 - 230 µU/mL (Measured 2 hours after eating)
🔹 High Insulin Levels: May indicate insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, PCOS, or an insulin-producing tumor.
🔹 Low Insulin Levels: May suggest type 1 diabetes, pancreatic dysfunction, or hypoglycemia.
📝 Test Procedure
1️⃣ A blood sample is taken 2 hours after eating a meal.
2️⃣ The sample is analyzed using hormone assay techniques (e.g., immunoassay).
3️⃣ Results are evaluated alongside glucose levels to diagnose metabolic conditions.
⚠️ Who Should Get Tested?
🔹 Individuals with symptoms of insulin resistance (weight gain, fatigue, frequent hunger).
🔹 Those at risk for diabetes, metabolic syndrome, or obesity-related disorders.
🔹 People experiencing unexplained low or high blood sugar levels.
🔹 Women with PCOS or fertility issues linked to insulin levels.
✅ Why is This Test Important?
✔️ Early detection of insulin resistance and diabetes risk.
✔️ Helps prevent complications like cardiovascular disease, obesity, and nerve damage.
✔️ Guides treatment for metabolic disorders, PCOS, and diabetes management.