Health Tips
Getting ready for a blood test: fasting, timing and what to bring
A little preparation makes blood test results more accurate and saves you a second visit. Here is what most people need to know.
Do you need to fast?
Most blood tests do not need fasting. A few do, because food changes the result. Tests that sometimes need fasting include:
- Fasting blood sugar (glucose), often used to check for or monitor diabetes
- Lipid profile (cholesterol), in some cases
If your test needs fasting, you will usually be asked not to eat for 8 to 12 hours beforehand. That is why fasting tests are often booked for the morning. Always follow the instructions you are given for your specific test.
What “fasting” means
- No food, including snacks, chewing gum and sweets.
- No drinks except plain water. Tea, coffee (even without milk or sugar), juice and soda all count as breaking the fast.
- Do drink water. Being well hydrated makes it easier to draw blood.
- Avoid alcohol and heavy exercise the day before, unless told otherwise.
What about your medicines?
Keep taking your usual medicines unless your doctor tells you otherwise. If you take medicines for diabetes, ask your doctor before fasting: skipping meals while taking some diabetes medicines can make your blood sugar drop too low.
What to bring
- Your request form, if another doctor ordered the tests
- Your ID and insurance card, if you are using insurance
- A list of medicines and supplements you take
- Something to eat and drink after a fasting test
On the day
- Wear a top with sleeves that roll up easily.
- Tell the person drawing your blood if you feel faint around needles. You can lie down for the test.
- After the test, press firmly on the spot for a few minutes to reduce bruising.
Urine and stool samples
For urine and stool tests, you will be given a clean container and instructions. Collect the sample as instructed and bring it in promptly, because results are most reliable from fresh samples.
Getting your results
Ask when your results will be ready and how you will receive them. Your doctor will explain what they mean and whether any follow-up is needed.
Laboratory tests at Kileleshwa Medical Plaza
The plaza laboratory runs routine screening, blood sugar and cholesterol tests, kidney, liver and heart panels, hormone tests, infection screening, and specialised tests, as well as regular monitoring for long-term conditions. Samples can also be collected at home through the plaza’s home-based care service. The plaza is open every day from 9 am to 9 pm. Book a test or message us on WhatsApp to ask whether your test needs fasting.
This article is general information and does not replace advice from your own doctor.