What test assesses the ability of the body to handle glucose?

The oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) is designed specifically to assess how well the body processes glucose. During this test, an individual is given a standardized amount of glucose after fasting and then their blood glucose levels are measured at intervals. This test evaluates the body's insulin response and is particularly useful in diagnosing conditions such as insulin resistance, prediabetes, and diabetes.

By monitoring glucose levels over time, the OGTT provides a detailed picture of how effectively the body can manage and utilize glucose, distinguishing it from simpler tests like those measuring random blood glucose or fasting blood sugar, which provide a snapshot rather than a comprehensive assessment of glucose handling. The A1C test, while informative about average blood glucose levels over a period, does not directly assess glucose handling in real-time as the OGTT does. Therefore, the OGTT is the most effective choice for evaluating the body's response to glucose loading.