Cholesterol Test

[elliemay1]

I had a repeat cholesterol and kidney filtration blood test this morning. I fasted beforehand as I usually do but was told that I should have had breakfast as normal as thinking has changed on cholesterol testing. I checked my letter but there was no mention of fasting/not fasting. I may have to have test redone(which is no big deal) as was told results for cholesterol may not be accurate. It's just that I was surprised and wasn't aware of the change in thinking. Is anyone else aware of this?

[Vagus]

Yes, it’s been a non fasting test for a couple of years I think.
Makes no difference to me as I don’t ever eat breakfast anyway, so I can’t really see why it would have to be redone in your case just because you didn’t eat your breakfast.

[Sqad]

Some labs want you to fast, others don't.
You followed the instructions and in your case, I would refuse to submit for a further test and accept the result of your recent one.
No big deal, either way.

[elliemay1]

Thank you Vagus.

[elliemay1]

Thanks Sqad.

[Barsel]

Do you still have to fast for a diabetes test?

[Sqad]

Depends which test.......for HB1ac no, fasting not necessary.

[barry1010]

I do, Barsel, but I don't see the point of it these days when the hb1ac is far more informative and doesn't need fasting.

[Barsel]

Thank you Sqad and barry.

[Buenchico]

From the NHS website:
"Blood cholesterol levels can be measured with a simple blood test. You may be asked not to eat for 12 hours before the test (which usually includes when you're asleep) to ensure that all food is completely digested and won't affect the result, although this isn't always necessary".
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/blood-tests/types/

That site though links to here (which is the definitive website for information about blood tests), where it's stated that: "No fasting is needed for a cholesterol test. However, you should follow your doctor's advice as fasting might be needed for other tests being performed."
https://labtestsonline.org.uk/tests/cholesterol-test