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No fasting for Hba1c?

juliekem

Well-Known Member
Messages
85
Location
Nottingham, England
Type of diabetes
Other
Treatment type
Insulin
Having been told (5) years ago that I had to fast for an Hba1c test, I have just been informed by the receptionist (and she went away and checked this apparently) that I no longer have to fast for this test! If this is true, I wish they had told me sooner, but is this now general? I have always booked appointments first thing in the morning and fasted (apart from water.)
I remain dubious so could someone reassure me or otherwise on this issue?
Thanx
 
You only fast if it's also for a cholesterol check where they are checking your lipids, for an Hba1c there's no need to fast.
 
noblehead said:
You only fast if it's also for a cholesterol check where they are checking your lipids, for an Hba1c there's no need to fast.
Click to expand...
Thanks for this - I just wish they had made it clear why I had to fast. The next problem is that I don't know what they intend to test for at my next blood test which is an extra one as far as I am concerned, I have in the past just attended once per year. Oh well. another phone call to the surgery......
 
If they are doing a cholesterol test then they don't want you eating anything prior to the test. It won't have any affect on your HbA1c to eat before a test though.

As you are a Type 1 they are almost certainly doing a cholesterol test as well.

You should really be having HbA1c more than once a year; I try and have them quarterly as it keeps me on my toes.

Best

Dillinger
 
Yes , There is no need for fasting sugar for HbA1c alone
 
I had to fast for mine although it was only for 8 hours had a cholesterol one the following week where I had to fast for 12 hours,why is everything different all the time it gets too confusing.
 
If it is solely just a Hba1c then no you do not need to fast but like @noblehead said if it is for cholesterol and other things then yes you will need to fast!
 
Interesting, I was told I didn't need to fast. They ask me at clinic when I last ate and I answer (it is usually breakfast a few hours before) and then they carry on. I know they check my cholesterol too
 

I would check Julie.

I get my check-ups done at the hospital clinic but have my bloods taken at my gp surgery, my consultant always requests a full lipid breakdown so on booking the blood test I always inform the receptionist that the appointment is for an Hba1c and a fasting cholesterol check.
 
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