Which blood tests need to be fasting?

You may have to fast—avoiding anything but water—for eight to 12 hours before a blood test. This is because nutrients from foods and beverages are absorbed into your blood, which can cause inaccurate results.

Make sure you are clear about whether or not you need to fast for the test(s) you are scheduled for so you can avoid having to repeat them.

How soon should you drink water before a blood test

This article discusses why your healthcare provider might ask you to fast for blood work and how you can best prepare.

What Blood Tests Require Fasting?

Most blood tests actually do not require fasting, but some common ones do.

These include:

• Basic metabolic panel: This test measures eight different substances that reveal information about the body's chemical balance and metabolism.

  Typically, you'll fast for eight hours before the test.

• Blood glucose test: By measuring a sugar in your blood called glucose, a blood glucose test can see whether you may have diabetes or certain other medical conditions.

  Some blood glucose tests don't require you to fast, but others do. If you're a

  how long to fast before blood work reddit
  how long to fast before blood work alcohol