If the doctor asks me to fast for 12 hours before getting blood work, does that mean I can't drink water?

Answer 1

You may drink water with the amount that you normally take. You should not have any food or drink, other than water, for 12 hours before the test is collected. Water is acceptable but no food, gum, coffee, etc., prior to the blood test as those foods can add things like sugar or caffeine to your system which can interfere with the testing of your blood.

Answer 2

Not exactly, that simply means not to eat anything before having the blood exam. Usually if the exam is during the morning, just eat a lot before you go to sleep and then don't eat anything until after you finish getting the exam. Not even water is allowed as it hydrates your body and makes your blood more liquid. This can cause clarity in the blood and you may have to take it again.

Answer 3

I've had to do fasting labs frequently in the last few months. I asked about water and was told by the doctor that it was fine, but no coffee or tea, even without sugar, and no nicotine gum.

Answer 4

The doctor should have specified for you, but in nearly all cases, water is fine. Just don't consume anything that your body will have to metabolize.

Answer 5

Yes water is fine.Just not pop,juice,milk or any other caffeinated drinks because that can mess up the readings and other things

Answer 6

Please go ahead and drink water! Don't drink juice or coffee or anything else (the sugar, etc. can affect the result). Your Doc ought to have explained this one a bit better so you don't get dehydrated. :)

Answer 7

can drink plain water

but not soft drink, coffee, tea that contain sugar ... etc
as it will affect the test result.

Answer 8

you can't drink water even

Answer 9

if it is just for bloodwork, you may have water only.