What is the C-Peptide Test?

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the C-Peptide Test used for?

Both C-peptide and insulin are released by the beta cells of the pancreas at the same time in identical amounts. Insulin is a hormone that controls the body's glucose or 'blood sugar’ levels by reducing the amount of glucose produced by your body. Excessive amounts of glucose may be harmful to your body. 

A measurement of C-peptide levels is a simple and effective way to estimate a person's insulin levels. This is so because C-peptidase remains in the body for a longer time while insulin gets excreted or removed from the body faster.

Why do I need a C-Peptide Test?

A C-peptide test is indicated if your doctor suspects the signs and symptoms of diabetes or if you already have diabetes. It may also be a tool used to measure the body's metabolic status if you've had your pancreas removed.

Specific indications of this test include - 

• To differentiate between type 1 and type 2 diabetes
• In established cases of type 1 diabetes, to quantify how much insulin the pancreas still makes
• To determine the need and amount of insulin therapy in type 2 diabetics
• To find out the causes of hypoglycemia
• To check the status of a pancreatic tumour

What happens during the C-Peptide Test?

The C-peptidase test is a simple blood test wherein a blood sample is taken from the patient through a vein. It is then sent to a laboratory for testing to find the level of C-peptidase in the blood.  

Since C-peptide can also be measured in urine, your doctor may ask you to collect all urine passed in 24 hours. This is called the 24-hour urine sample test.

Will I need to do anything to prepare for the test?

Generally, this blood test requires an 8-10 hour fast or overnight fast before it is done. You need to inform your doctor about any medication you are on since insulin and some oral medication for type 2 diabetes can hamper the test results. Your doctor may ask you to stop these medicines before your blood test.

Understanding the test results of C-Peptide Test

The test results are given in nanograms per millilitre (ng/mL).

What is a good C-Peptide level?

Normal results are within the range of 0.5 to 2.7 ng/mL, but this can vary depending on the lab used for testing.

What does high C-peptide indicate?

A higher level of C-peptide means that your body is producing more insulin than required by the body.

What is the C-peptide level for diabetic?

A higher level of C-peptide is found in the case of type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance, as seen in conditions like Cushing's syndrome. Lower levels of C-peptide are found in the case of type 1 diabetes, liver disease, severe infection during ongoing insulin therapy, or a condition called Addison's disease.

Are there any risks to the test?

Like every test that involves taking a blood sample with a needle, this also carries certain risks that include bleeding, infection, bruising, or dizziness. The sensation of pain may be felt when the needle pricks your arm, and the site may be slightly sore for a while later. At the same time, there are no known risks in a urine test.

How do you increase C-peptide levels naturally?

Natural means to increase your C-peptide levels include -

• Exercise - It pumps up not just you but also your pancreas to secrete more insulin and C-peptidase.
• Omega-3 fatty acids - They are abundant in fatty fish like salmon and nuts and seeds like chia seeds, flaxseed, and walnuts.
• Honey - It can act as a substitute for sugar.
• Vitamin D - Getting more sun could be a great strategy to increase your vitamin D and C-peptide levels.

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