C Peptide (Post Prandial)

The C-Peptide Post-Prandial Test measures the level of C-peptide in your blood after eating a meal (usually 2 hours post-meal).

C-peptide is a byproduct created when the pancreas produces insulin. For every molecule of insulin released into the bloodstream, an equal molecule of C-peptide is released. While insulin is rapidly cleared by the liver, C-peptide stays in the body longer and is more stable, making it an excellent marker to accurately measure exactly how much insulin your pancreas is naturally producing (endogenous insulin).

Evaluating C-peptide after a meal is particularly valuable because the intake of food challenges the pancreas, forcing it to secrete insulin to manage rising blood sugar.