Glucose - Postprandial Urine Test

It’s a known fact that very high or very low glucose (blood sugar) levels are harmful to our body. Glucose is the main source of energy in our body and the hormone insulin helps the glucose to be used by the body’s cells correctly. Any imbalance of insulin also leads to imbalance of glucose in our body. High glucose level (Hyperglycemia) affects the organs of our body and low glucose level (Hypoglycemia) leads to brain and nerve malfunction. Postprandial urine glucose test measures the glucose level after having a meal or eating. 2 hours after eating, urine sample for testing postprandial glucose level is taken. The kidney filters the blood to form urine. Normally, urine has little or no glucose. In case of very high glucose level, glycosuria or high level of glucose in the urine is noted. The test results help to monitor insulin therapy in patients with diabetes mellitus.

Postprandial urine glucose test is done on a sample of urine. The urine sample should be taken as per the doctor’s instructions. Since the glucose test is postprandial, the urine sample should be taken preferably 2 hours after lunch or dinner. No other preparation is required. It’s recommended that you discuss your health condition and current medication with the doctor. Based on his advice, discontinue any medication if asked to.

The urine test for postprandial glucose level may prove you are diabetic or non-diabetic. To confirm the analysis, blood test for glucose needs to be done. When blood glucose level crosses 180 mg/dl, it starts to leak in the urine. Urine glucose indicates uncontrolled diabetes.

When the urine test for postprandial glucose level is high or positive, it means you have high level of glucose in your urine. Glycosuria leads to excessive water loss through urine and it’s medically known as osmotic diuresis. There is low level of glucose in the blood leading to lack of energy, weakened muscles and poor cell metabolism. Whereas, the rush of glucose to the kidneys causes it to get inflamed and kidney failure is caused.

Postprandial urine is collected in a labelled and sterilized cup provided by the pathologist. 5 ml urine is required for testing. A midstream urine specimen is collected. Glucose in urine can be identified by Benedict’s qualitative test. The testing is conducted without much delay on the fresh sample of urine using Benedict’s solution.