Instructions for Preparing for a Fasting Blood Test and Labcorp Instructions
A Comprehensive Guide to What to Do and What to Avoid
Introduction
A fasting blood test is a common procedure used by healthcare professionals to evaluate various aspects of your health. Fasting is essential for certain blood tests because eating and drinking can influence the levels of substances in your bloodstream, leading to inaccurate results. This guide provides detailed instructions on what you should do—and not do—before your appointment to ensure valid and meaningful results.
Understanding Fasting Blood Tests
Before delving into the dos and don’ts, it’s important to know why fasting is required for some blood tests. Tests that often require fasting include:
- Glucose tests (to check blood sugar levels)
- Lipid panels (to measure cholesterol and triglycerides)
- Basic metabolic panels
- Other specialized tests as directed by your healthcare provider
Fasting means abstaining from eating or drinking anything except water for a specified period—usually 8 to 12 hours—prior to the blood draw.
What You Should Do Before a Fasting Blood Test
- Fasting: Fast for at least 8 hours but 12 hours would be ideal.
- Schedule Your Appointment Wisely: Since fasting can be challenging, especially for long periods, book your blood test appointment in the morning. This way, you can fast overnight while you sleep and minimize discomfort.
- Drink Water: You can and should drink water during your fasting period. Staying hydrated helps keep your veins more accessible for the blood draw and may reduce the risk of feeling faint. Drink last least 16oz of water (if possible) the morning of your blood test. Dehydration can affect your test results.
- Take Medications as Directed: Some medicines can be taken with water during the fasting period, while others may need to be temporarily withheld. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist about your specific medications. If taking thyroid medication, do what your prescribing health care professional normally has you do before checking your thyroid hormone levels.
- Prepare for After the Test: Bring a small snack to eat once your blood has been drawn, especially if you feel lightheaded after fasting.
- Acute Illness: If you are unwell (common cold, flu, etc.) postpone your blood test until you have recovered from the current illness.
What You Should Not Do Before a Fasting Blood Test
- Do Not Eat Any Food: Avoid all foods, including snacks, candy, gum, or mints during the fasting period. Any caloric intake can alter test results.
- Dietary Supplements: stop taking all dietary supplements for 72hrs (3 days) before your blood test. Some supplements can alter your test results.
- Do Not Consume Beverages Other Than Water: Stay away from coffee, tea, juice, milk, soda, or alcohol. Even black coffee or unsweetened tea can impact your results.
- Do Not Chew Gum: Gum, even sugar-free varieties, can stimulate digestive processes and potentially affect your test results.
- Do Not Smoke or Use Tobacco Products: Smoking or using tobacco can affect certain test values, so it’s best to refrain during your fasting period.
- Do Not Exercise: Avoid heavy exercise for 24 hours before your test, as intense physical activity can change some test results. Normal daily activities such as walking is permitted.
- Do Not Ignore Your Doctor’s Instructions: If your healthcare provider has given you specific guidelines that differ from general advice, always follow their recommendations.
- Do Not Delay the Test Unnecessarily: Prolonging the fasting period longer than instructed can lead to dehydration, low blood sugar, and unnecessary discomfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take My Medication While Fasting?
It depends on the medication. Many medications can be taken with water during fasting, but some may interfere with test results or require food. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist.
Can I Brush My Teeth?
Yes, you can brush your teeth before your fasting blood test.
What If I Accidentally Eat or Drink Something?
If you accidentally break your fast, reschedule your test to ensure accuracy.
Can I Drink Black Coffee or Tea?
No. Even black coffee or unsweetened tea can stimulate metabolic processes and alter blood test results. Only water is recommended unless told otherwise by your doctor.
How Soon After the Test Can I Eat?
You can eat and drink immediately after your blood has been drawn. It's a good idea to bring a snack, especially if you tend to feel faint.
Special Considerations
- Elderly: Fasting may be more difficult for seniors. Always consult their healthcare provider for specific guidance.
- Pregnant Individuals: Fasting blood tests are sometimes required during pregnancy. Always consult your doctor about how to fast safely in these circumstances.
- People with Diabetes: If you have diabetes or take medication that affects your blood sugar, speak with your healthcare provider for specific instructions. Never fast in a way that could put your health at risk.
Conclusion
Preparing properly for a fasting blood test ensures that the results are reliable and meaningful. By following the instructions provided here, you can help make the process smoother and more comfortable for yourself. If you ever have questions or uncertainties, always reach out to your healthcare provider for individualized advice. Your health and well-being are important, and being informed is the first step toward optimal care.
MUST READ!
Labcorp
- When checking in at Labcorp, you are there for routine blood work.
- DO NOT make any type of payment at Labcorp. You have already paid for the lab test.
- Do NOT provide any insurance information to Labcorp (this lab test is not being billed to any type of health insurance) providing your health insurance information to Labcorp could result in you receiving a bill from Labcorp).
- Your lab test order: After your purchase, you will receive an email with a copy of your lab order form typically within one business day. You do not need to bring a printed copy of the order to Labcorp, but you should have it available on your phone for reference. Once we have placed the order with Labcorp you will be in their system, they will be aware of what tests you will be getting. Note: If it has been more than one business day and you don’t see the email with your lab order make sure to check the spam/junk folder in your email.
- Find your nearest Labcorp testing location and either walk in or schedule an appointment online. Check in at the kiosk, and they’ll take care of the rest. You MUST bring your photo ID with you, such as a driver’s license or state-issued ID.