Description
Why It’s Done:
• To assess how the body regulates blood sugar after meals and evaluate the function of insulin production in individuals who may have insulin resistance or diabetes.
• To help diagnose insulin resistance, pre-diabetes, or Type 2 diabetes by comparing insulin levels against blood glucose levels after eating.
• To evaluate how well a person’s body is responding to glucose, especially in patients with conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or obesity.
• Sometimes used in conjunction with the glucose tolerance test to better understand insulin levels and glucose metabolism.
Preparation:
• Fasting is usually required before the test, typically for 8-12 hours prior to the blood draw.
• After fasting, you will eat a standard meal, and the test is performed 2 hours after you have finished eating to measure postprandial insulin levels.
• Avoid strenuous physical activity or excessive stress before the test, as these factors can affect insulin levels.
• Inform your healthcare provider about any medications, especially insulin, oral hypoglycemics, or steroids, as these can affect test results.
• No alcohol should be consumed before the test, as it can interfere with insulin and glucose metabolism.
