What is the normal postprandial blood glucose level?
Jul 22, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, postprandial blood glucose levels are categorized according to the timing of measurement and population-specific criteria. Typically, in healthy adults, the 2-hour postprandial blood glucose level should be less than 7.8 mmol/L; the 1-hour postprandial glucose level generally does not exceed 10.0 mmol/L, and the 3-hour postprandial level should return to fasting levels. For individuals with diabetes, the glycemic control targets may differ slightly.
Under normal circumstances, postprandial (after-meal) blood glucose levels must be interpreted according to the timing of measurement and population-specific criteria. Detailed analysis is as follows:
In healthy adults, the normal blood glucose level two hours after a meal should be less than 7.8 mmol/L. One hour after a meal, it generally does not exceed 10.0 mmol/L, and by three hours post-meal, it typically returns to fasting levels. For individuals with diabetes, the glycemic control target differs slightly. It is generally recommended that blood glucose two hours after a meal should be below 10.0 mmol/L to reduce the risk of complications.
It is important to note that blood glucose levels can be influenced by various factors such as diet, physical activity, and emotional status. A single slightly elevated reading does not necessarily indicate an abnormality. If the blood glucose level two hours after a meal is ≥7.8 mmol/L but <11.1 mmol/L, it may indicate impaired glucose tolerance (prediabetes). A level of ≥11.1 mmol/L suggests possible diabetes and should prompt further diagnostic evaluation using fasting blood glucose or an oral glucose tolerance test.
Monitoring postprandial blood glucose helps in the early detection of glucose metabolism abnormalities, especially in high-risk populations such as those who are obese or have a family history of diabetes. If repeated measurements show abnormalities, timely medical consultation is recommended to adjust lifestyle habits or initiate treatment.
