Fasting and post-meal (PP) blood glucose
Quick answer: This pair of tests measures your blood sugar after an overnight fast and again about 2 hours after a meal. Doctors order it to screen for diabetes and to check how well diabetes is controlled.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 2 to 2.5 hours, including the wait
- Before the testFast for 8 to 10 hours for the first sample, then eat your usual meal and give the second sample 2 hours after you start eating.
- In fertility careGood sugar control before and during pregnancy lowers the risk of complications.
How the test is done
- 1You fast overnight for 8 to 10 hours and give a morning blood sample
- 2You eat your usual breakfast and note the time you start
- 3You wait about 2 hours without eating more
- 4A second blood sample is taken for the post-meal reading
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Targets differ in pregnancy, so discuss your result with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A high fasting or post-meal level can be seen with diabetes or prediabetes. A high post-meal level with a normal fasting level can show early problems in handling sugar after food.
Who usually has this test
People being screened for diabetes, people with diabetes checking control, and women with PCOS or planning pregnancy.
Risks and aftercare
Have a normal meal after the second sample; tell staff if you feel shaky or sweaty while fasting.
Names and options
Also called: FBS PPBS, fasting and postprandial sugar
Listed by the hospital as
- GLUCOSE, FASTING & PP (PLASMA)
Questions about this test
What should I eat before the post-meal sample?
Eat your usual breakfast, not a lighter or heavier one than normal. This shows how your body handles a typical meal.
Is fasting and PP glucose the same as an OGTT?
No. A PP test uses your normal meal, while an OGTT uses a measured glucose drink. The OGTT is used to diagnose gestational diabetes.
Why are both fasting and post-meal values checked?
Some people have normal fasting sugar but high sugar after meals. Checking both gives a fuller picture.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.