What does it mean when the doctor wants fasting blood tests?
There are many blood tests that the doctor will order which must be drawn on a fasting basis. The definition of fasting for a blood draw means nothing to eat for 12 hours, however, you may have water or one cup of BLACK coffee (no cream or sugar). In fact, the blood and urine tests are more accurate if you show up well hydrated. Drink ten, 8oz. glasses of water in the preceding 24 hours before your tests. The easiest way to fast for 12 hours is to set up an appointment for the blood draw earlier in the morning. Then if you have an appointment for the blood draw at 8:30am, you only need to fast after 8:30 pm the preceding night. After the draw you can eat a late breakfast.
