Cholesterol is a fatty substance that is found in the cells of our body. It is essential for the production of hormones, vitamin D, and the formation of cell membranes.

However, too much cholesterol can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease and stroke. As such, it is important to monitor cholesterol levels on a regular basis. One way to do this is through cholesterol testing. Recently, the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) released new guidelines on short-term fasting for cholesterol testing.

What is Short-term Fasting?

Short-term fasting is the act of abstaining from food or drink for a specific period of time. In the case of cholesterol testing, it refers to fasting for 9-12 hours before a blood test.

This is because certain foods and drinks can affect cholesterol levels in the blood, which can lead to inaccurate test results.

Why Fast for Cholesterol Testing?

The main reason to fast before a cholesterol test is to get an accurate measurement of the amount of cholesterol in the blood. Certain foods and drinks can elevate cholesterol levels in the blood, making it difficult to get an accurate reading.

For example, consuming high-fat foods, alcohol, and caffeine can all increase cholesterol levels in the blood. Additionally, some medications can also affect cholesterol levels, so it is important to discuss any medications with your doctor before undergoing a cholesterol test.

What Should You Do During the Fasting Period?

During the fasting period, you are not allowed to consume any food or drink (which includes water) except for plain water. This means that you cannot have any coffee, tea, juice, or any other types of fluids during this period.

It is important to follow these guidelines to ensure accurate test results.

When Should You Fast?

The ESC recommends that individuals fast for 9-12 hours before a cholesterol test. This means that if you have an appointment for a cholesterol test at 8am, you should fast after your last meal at 8pm the night before.

It is important to follow the fasting guidelines to ensure that the test results are accurate.

What Happens if You Don’t Fast?

If you do not fast before a cholesterol test, the results may not be accurate. This is because certain foods and drinks can elevate cholesterol levels in the blood, leading to a falsely high reading.

As a result, your doctor may request that you undergo another test, or they may recommend that you fast and reschedule the test for a later date.

What Else Should You Know?

While short-term fasting is recommended for cholesterol testing, it is important to note that this is just one factor that can affect cholesterol levels. Other factors that can influence cholesterol levels include genetics, age, exercise, and diet.

Additionally, it is important to discuss any concerns regarding cholesterol levels with your doctor, as they can help you understand your results and provide guidance on ways to improve your cholesterol levels if necessary.

Conclusion

Short-term fasting is an important factor in ensuring accurate results for cholesterol testing. The European Society of Cardiology recommends that individuals fast for 9-12 hours before a cholesterol test to ensure accurate results.

By following these guidelines, individuals can ensure that they are getting the most accurate assessment of their cholesterol levels, which can help to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.