Fasting before a blood test: What you need to know
- Category: Blood / Hematology
- Date: 05-09-2017
Fasting before a blood test is often required to ensure accurate results, as food and drink can affect certain blood measurements. Typically, fasting involves abstaining from all food and drinks (except water) for 8 to 12 hours before the test. This is especially important for tests measuring glucose levels, cholesterol, and triglycerides, as eating can cause temporary spikes in these markers, leading to misleading results. It's important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions on fasting and not skip this step to ensure the most accurate and reliable test outcomes. If you’re unsure about the fasting requirements for your specific blood test, it’s best to consult with your doctor or the testing facility beforehand.