Not always, but recommended
Do I need to fast?
For most blood tests fasting isn't strictly required, but it does produce more accurate results. We recommend always doing blood tests in the morning between 08:00 and 10:00, preferably while fasting. For a number of specific tests 12 hours of fasting is required.
Tests where fasting is required or strongly recommended
Fasting is essential for reliable results with these tests
Fasting required
Glucose (Blood Sugar)
12 hours fasting required
Fasting glucose is essential for diagnosing diabetes or pre-diabetes
Fasting required
Lipid Panel (Cholesterol, Triglycerides, LDL, HDL)
12 hours fasting required
Triglycerides and LDL cholesterol are strongly influenced by food intake
Fasting required
Homocysteine
12 hours fasting required
Important for cardiovascular disease and vitamin B status
Fasting required
Insulin
12 hours fasting required
For a reliable measurement of insulin levels
Fasting required
HOMA IR (Insulin Resistance)
12 hours fasting required
Measures how well your body handles sugar and insulin
Recommended
Iron & Ferritin
Fasting strongly recommended
Iron levels fluctuate with food intake; fasting provides the most reliable picture
Fasting required
Bone Enzyme (BAP Osteoporosis)
12 hours fasting required
For research into bone density and osteoporosis
Recommended
Vitamin B12 & Folic Acid
Fasting recommended
Supplements and food can temporarily influence levels
Time-sensitive
Cortisol (Stress Hormone)
Test before 10:00 AM
Not fasting, but early in the day for best results
Fasting: what's allowed and what's not?
Follow these guidelines for optimal test results
This is allowed
Drinking water
Unlimited water is always allowed and encouraged
Light breakfast (non-fasting tests)
Maximum 2 slices of whole wheat bread with lean topping, no butter
Taking medication
Continue your medication unless your doctor has advised otherwise
This is not allowed
Coffee and tea with milk/sugar
Only water is allowed during the fasting period
Dairy products
Milk, yogurt, cheese can affect test results
Fried and fatty foods
Can disrupt lipid values and other parameters
Alcohol
Avoid alcohol 24 hours before the test
Ready for your blood test?
With this preparation you can confidently order your test.