Tips to fast safely before a test

08 February 2023

Although a standard blood test doesn’t need you to fast, there are still some specialised tests which do. Here is a simple guide to fasting for an upcoming test

 

What is fasting?

Fasting means that you must not have anything to eat, drink or chew after 9 pm the night before a test – Drinking plain water is allowed.

 

Drinking water

Drinking plain water will help you to stay hydrated and may also help suppress appetite. Avoid drinking coffee, juice, tea and alcohol.

 

Tests which require fasting

• C-Peptide (CPE)
• Calcitonin
• Calcium/Creatinine Ration (urine test)
• Chromogranin – A
• Crosslaps
• Folate (serum)
• Gastrin
• Glucagon
• Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT)
• Homocysteine (HCY)
• Hydrogen H2 Breath Test (Lactose intolerance)
• Iron Studies
• Pancreatic Polypeptide
• Urea Breath Test
• Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP)

You do not need to fast for a venesection procedure.

 

Taking medications?

Make sure you check with your doctor regarding medications that you are taking. Do not change or stop your medication unless they request it.

 

Contact us

If you are still unsure about what is required for your test, contact us on 08 8222 3000 or e-mail Health.SAPathologyCallCentre@sa.gov.au.