Preparing for Your Fasting Blood Glucose Test: What You Need to Know

Diabetes affects 25.8 million children and adults in the United States and is one of the primary causes of blindness and amputation, according to the American Diabetes Association. A fasting blood glucose test is one of the tools your doctor uses to determine if you suffer from diabetes. Glucose is sugar. Normal blood glucose levels can be up to 100 milligrams per deciliter, notes the National Institutes of Health. Levels higher than that may indicate diabetes. To ensure accurate test results, follow all prep instructions provided by your physician.

Instructions

• 1

  Avoid potatoes, bread and pasta before a fasting blood glucose test.

  Before fasting, which must start at least eight hours before the test, have a meal consisting mainly of high-protein foods like meat, beans, lentils, nuts or seeds. Avoid fruit juices, sugary drinks or alcohol. Do not eat more than you usually do. Drink water.

• 2

  Breakfast has to wait until after your test.

  Relax and get plenty of rest the night before your test --- at least seven to eight hours of sleep. Usually, fasting blood glucose testing appointments occur in the morning. Do not do any strenuous activity or exercising as you may become lightheaded. Remember to drink water to avoid dehydration.

• 3

  Stress can negatively impact your blood sugar levels.

  The morning of your test, try to do something relaxing like yoga or meditation before going to your appointment. Bring a book or a magazine to the doctor's office to keep your mind occupied until they are ready to perform the test.