postprandial

/ post-PRAN-dee-ul /adjective

Meaning of postprandial: Postprandial means occurring after a meal.

Definition of postprandial

Postprandial describes a symptom, measurement, physiologic response, or time period that occurs after eating a meal. The term is commonly used when discussing blood glucose, abdominal symptoms, metabolism, and laboratory testing. It does not by itself specify how long after the meal an event occurred.

Also known as

after a mealafter eating

Used in a sentence

The clinician compared the fasting and postprandial glucose measurements.

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Good to know

The relevant postprandial interval depends on the test or clinical question. Documentation should state the timing when it affects interpretation, such as one or two hours after the start of a meal.

Word origin

Where “postprandial” comes from

Formed from Latin post, meaning “after,” and prandium, meaning “meal.”

For learning, not diagnosis. This glossary provides general educational information and is not a substitute for advice from a qualified healthcare professional. If you may be experiencing a medical emergency, contact local emergency services.