CNN Central News & Network-ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: People have long been advised to go without food for 8 to 12 hours before a blood test, but new research has questioned this common rule. A study published in JAMA Internal Medicine analysed nearly 9.7 million test results and data from about 101,000 people. Researchers found that fasting for a short period has very little effect on most routine blood tests.
According to the research, glucose, triglycerides, GGT and some pancreatic enzymes, especially lipase, are among the tests on which fasting may have a relatively greater impact. Doctors may therefore advise fasting for these tests. Fasting blood glucose and oral glucose tolerance tests also generally require an empty stomach.
At the same time, fasting is usually not required for many common tests such as CBC, electrolytes, thyroid tests and HbA1c. Fasting was also found to have a limited effect on several kidney and liver function tests. However, this does not mean fasting should be stopped without a doctor’s advice. Preparation can vary depending on the test and the patient’s condition. If fasting is advised, doctors generally recommend taking only water for 8 to 12 hours.
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