Which Tests Require Fasting And Which Do Not?

Laboratory investigations have become a routine. You go to the lab and wait for your turn. Some tests require fasting and some do not. In this post we inform you about what fasting means and which tests require fasting.

Image Courtesy: Flickr -Neeta Lind

What does “fasting” mean?

Several tests require that the patient refrains from eating for a period of time prior to the test.  “Fasting” means nothing to eat (including tea, biscuit), drink, or smoke for at least 8 hours.  You are permitted to drink water.  Medications should continue to be taken as scheduled unless advised otherwise by your physician.

 

Common tests for which fasting is required: Some tests for which fasting is preferred :

1. Lipid Profile (Cholesterol, Triglyceride, HDL, LDL)
2. Cholesterol, Triglyceride
3. Liver function test
4. D-Xylose Tolerance 
5. Cryoglobulin
6. Gastrin
7. Glucose Fasting
8. Glucose Tolerance (includes Gestational Diabetes Confirmation)
9. Lactose Tolerance

How long must I fast?

If your test states fasting is required or preferred, fast for 8 hours prior to the test unless the instructions specifically state otherwise.

 

Fasting Glucose 8 -10 hour fast prior to test  

Lipid Profile:  Cholesterol/Triglyceride/HDL/LDL     12-14 hour fast prior to test

You don't have to fast for:

1. Complete Blood Count
2. Thyroid Profile
3. Glycosylated Hemoglobin (Hb1Ac)
4. Renal function tests

You can call us or mail us to know for specific tests or ask any health related query.

Prana Healthcare brings healthcare at your doorstep. We guide you what tests to be done and when they need to be done. You have got tests done but not sure what they mean, call us.

We schedule all blood tests to be done in the comfort of your home.