Cholesterol tests measure the amount of total cholesterol in the blood, and usually measure low-density lipoprotein, the "bad" cholesterol levels, and high-density lipoproteins, the "good" cholesterol. Traditionally, medical personnel have told people to fast for a number of hours before the test. Recent studies indicate this may not be necessary, the BBC reports, quoting a study done by Cambridge researchers of over 300,000 people. Many practitioners still recommend fasting for cholesterol testing, however, believing that triglyceride and LDL levels measure more accurately after fasting.
Step 1
Listen to your doctor. Follow your medical practitioner's guidelines about fasting before the cholesterol test. Although total cholesterol and HDL levels may not change significantly with fasting, your triglyceride levels may rise if you don't fast before the test. Triglyceride levels can go up about 20 to 30 percent if you don't fast, Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide reports.
Step 2
Abstain from alcoholic beverages before your test. Alcohol can cause a sudden rise in triglycerides, so refrain for drinking for 24 hours before your blood test, Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide recommends.
Step 3
Eat your last meal nine to 12 hours before your test. If your medical practitioner didn't give specific instructions, don't eat for 12 hours before the test. Eat normally, because your doctor wants an accurate representation of your normal cholesterol levels to determine treatment.
Step 4
Drink plenty of water even on the morning of your blood test. Water is allowed before a cholesterol test because it won't change your blood levels. Juices, coffee or other liquids are not allowed.
Step 5
Go to your appointment first thing in the morning. Be at the lab as early as possible, so you can resume your normal diet before you get too hungry or weak from not eating.
Step 6
Reschedule your appointment if you're sick the morning of your appointment or if you've recently changed medications, the Texas Heart Institute at St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital advises.
Tips and Warnings
- Always follow your medical practitioner's specific instructions for you when having a cholesterol test done, since he knows your medical history best. Ask your practitioner about taking medications before the test.
- If you're feeling shaky or weak before the test, have a snack with you so you can eat right after the test.
