A 2-hour postprandial blood sugar test measures blood glucose levels exactly 2 hours after eating a meal. This is not a test used to diagnose diabetes.

Attention! If your physician has ordered any other test, fasting may be required before the start of the 2-hour postprandial test.

Patient Preparation:

  1. Eat a meal that contains carbohydrates.
  2. Eat the entire meal within 15 minutes.
  3. You should rest during the 2 hours between the meal (or drink) and the blood collection.
  4. Do not smoke, eat, drink, or exercise during the 2 hours. These activities cause the blood sugar levels to be falsely low or falsely high.
  5. Return to the laboratory two hours after completion of your meal. Your blood will then be drawn for the 2 hour postprandial blood sugar (glucose).

After Your Blood Collection

  1. The person drawing blood from your vein will place a piece of gauze on the area where your blood was drawn.  She/he may ask you to hold the gauze firmly until the bleeding has stopped.
  2. A bandage will be placed over the gauze where your blood was drawn.
  3. Do not remove the bandage for at least 15 minutes.
  4. Avoid bending your arm or carrying heavy objects for about 1 hour.
  5. Slight soreness may occur with some patients.