Why is the fasting blood sugar test performed?
Generally as a screening test for diabetes. The fasting blood sugar test is also used to evaluate the effectiveness of medication or dietary therapy in those already diagnosed with diabetes. How is the fasting blood sugar test performed? The American Diabetes Association recommends that the fasting blood sugar test be administered in the morning because afternoon tests tend to give lower readings. It is also usually more convenient to take the test in the morning because you must fast for 12 to 14 hours beforehand. The fasting blood sugar test consists of a simple blood draw, which is sent to your doctor’s lab for analysis. How frequently should the fasting blood sugar test be performed? Up to two times for diagnostic purposes, or as required when monitoring a treatment regime. What is the “normal” range for results? These vary according to the lab procedures used. When using the glucose oxidase and hexokinase methods, normal values are typically 70 to 100 mg/dl (3.89 to 5.56 mmol/l).
