The typical recommended fasting time before a blood test is between 8 to 12 hours. During this time, only water is allowed, and you should avoid eating, drinking anything other than water, chewing gum, smoking, and exercising, as these can impact test results. Your healthcare provider will give specific instructions based on the type of blood test you need, as some tests may require longer fasting times or additional preparation. It is also generally advised to schedule fasting blood tests in the morning so most fasting occurs during sleep.
