I have been asked to fast for my test. What should I do?

Fasting - What you should know

The laboratory tests your doctor has ordered can only provide useful information if you have fasted for the time specified for your particular test before it is performed.

Fasting means you should not have anything to eat or drink apart from small amounts of water for the time specified for your particular test  (see below) before you go to the laboratory.

Common Questions and Answers about Fasting

• May I drink water?
  Yes, small amounts.
• Should I take my medications?
  Yes, unless your doctor tells you not to.
• May I drink juice?
  No.
• May I drink coffee?
  No, not even black without sugar, and the same goes for tea.
• May I chew gum?
  No, sorry, not even sugarless.
• May I smoke?
  No, smoking can affect the test results.
• May I do my exercise routine?
  No, exercise can also affect test results.
• What time should I come to the laboratory?
  We recommend that patients who are having a glucose tolerance test (non-pregnant and gestational confirmation) book an appointment by calling our Patient Service Centres to arrange a time and location.  Please note that these tests require you to be in the Patient Service Centre for several hours so we recommend you bring reading material etc.
  
  Please note that Glucose tolerance test-gestational screen does NOT require fasting or an appointment.
  
  For other tests, we suggest you time your fast so that you arrive at the Patient Service Centre between 8 am - 9 am if possible.

Fasting Instructions for Specific Patient Tests

(Also see the BC Biomedical Laboratories Patient Test Instructions for your specific test) 

• Total Cholesterol, HDL/LDL Cholesterol, Triglycerides
  No food or drink except water for 10 hours before test.
• Fasting Glucose, Iron, Homocysteine
  No food or drink except water for 8 hours before test.
• Glucose Tolerance Tests (GTT)
  • GTT - Gestational confirmation & GTT - non-pregnant (appointments recommended)
    No food or drink except water for 8 hours before test.
  • GTT - Gestational screen
    No appointment or fasting required.
• H Pylori Breath Test
  No food or drink except water for 4 hours before test and 40 minute testing period
  
  
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