Preparing for Your Fasting Blood Sugar Test: A Comprehensive Guide

If your doctor recommends a glucose test, she is interested in learning your blood sugar levels. The test is useful in diagnosing diabetes or monitoring patients who already have the disease. If left untreated, high blood sugar levels can cause kidney, nerve and eye damage. Fasting for a blood sugar test means avoiding all food and drink for 12 hours prior to the test. Follow your doctor's orders to ensure accurate test results.

Instructions

• 1

  Avoid eating anything for 12 hours prior to giving blood. This includes all types of food without exception.

• 2

  Drink a minimal amount of water. If you become very thirsty, sip on a small amount of water. You should not exceed one cup of water.

• 3

  Avoid juice, coffee, tea and chewing gum. These substances can all affect the results of your test.

• 4

  Continue taking your usual medications unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.

• 5

  Refrain from smoking 12 hours prior to testing as this can affect your testing results.

• 6

  Rest for 12 hours prior to testing. Exercise should be limited in the hours leading up to blood sugar testing.