Do you need to fast for a lipid/cholesterol blood test?

How long should you fast for a Lipid Panel?

Routinely checking your cholesterol is a great way to protect your health and help to avoid serious complications.  Until recently, it was required that a person fast overnight before getting their blood drawn for a cholesterol test.  As with other types of blood tests, a fasting specimen was required to ensure that your test results were as accurate as possible and not affected by what you had consumed in the last 12 hours or so.  However, in the last few years, a new method of calculating Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL), also known as the "bad" cholesterol, has been implemented by most lab companies.  This new method allows for accurate LDL test results without any fasting required.  

How it Works

Do you need to fast before a cholesterol test?

With the current methodology adopted by most lab companies, there is no need to fast prior to getting your blood drawn for a cholesterol lipid panel.  This is great news because it makes getting routine blood work like a lipid panel easier and more convenient.  Now you can maintain a normal routine, including your regular diet, when you're getting ready to have your cholesterol checked.  In some special cases, especially for people who have unusually high levels of triglycerides or extra fats in their diet, fasting may still be recommended to help ensure your results are accurate.

How do I get a cholesterol test near me?

Request A Test is a national provider of discounted lab testing, including a lipid panel to measure your cholesterol levels.  We work with over 4,000 labs across the US, so finding a testing location near you is no problem.  There's no need to get a prescription from your doctor or get approval from your insurance provider.  Just order your test, go to the lab, and get your results.  It's as easy as it sounds.  In most cases, you can place an order, go to the lab the same day, and get your results as soon as the following business day.  Request A Test makes taking care of your health convenient and affordable.  To get started, just visit us online at www.requestatest.com or call our team during business hours at 1-888-732-2348.

Why Choose Us?

• Since 2002, we have had a proven track record of offering excellent customer service, affordable pricing with no hidden fees, and our enduring commitment to protecting your personal information.
• No doctor's order? (No problem!) Our national physician network provides the required doctor's orders for the lab. Insurance is not needed to order lab testing, nor will your insurance company be billed.
• We are partnered with two of the largest CLIA-certified labs in the US to offer you the latest lab testing technology with prompt and accurate results. (These are the same labs used by hospitals and physicians.)
• With over 3,600 lab locations to choose from and same-day collection, we make lab testing quick and convenient. No appointment is needed. Find your local lab with our location finder.
• We offer an extensive and detailed test menu. Ordering can be done online or over the phone. Not finding a test? Simply give us a call.

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