For a blood test that requires fasting, you typically need to fast for 8 to 12 hours before having your blood drawn. During this fasting period, you should not eat any food or drink anything except plain water. The exact duration can vary depending on the specific blood test your doctor has ordered, with some tests requiring fasting up to 14 hours or slightly more. It's best to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider. In summary:
- Fasting duration: usually 8 to 12 hours (sometimes up to 14 hours)
- Allowed during fasting: only plain water
- Avoid: food, drinks with sugar or caffeine, smoking, gum, and exercise before the test
- Morning appointments are common to help fast overnight
If you have diabetes or other health conditions, consult your doctor for personalized advice on fasting safely. This fasting ensures your blood test results are accurate and not influenced by recent food or drink intake.