Cholesterol and Triglycerides Tests

Preparation depends on the test. Ask your doctor which test you are having. You may or may not have to fast. For example, you can get a total cholesterol test or direct LDL test at any time, even if you recently had a meal or a snack. But if you get a test that measures LDL and HDL, you will fast for about 9 to 12 hours.

• If your doctor tells you to fast before your test, do not eat or drink anything except water for 9 to 12 hours before having your blood drawn. Usually, you are allowed to take your medicines with water the morning of the test. Fasting is not always necessary, but it may be recommended.
• Do not eat high-fat foods the night before the test.
• Do not drink alcohol or exercise strenuously before the test.

Many medicines may affect the results of this test. Be sure to tell your doctor about all the nonprescription and prescription medicines and herbs or natural substances you take.

Tell your doctor if you have had a test such as a thyroid or bone scan that uses a radioactive substance within the last 7 days.

Talk to your doctor about any concerns you have regarding the need for the test, its risks, how it will be done, or what the results will mean. To help you understand the importance of this test, fill out the medical test information form (What is a Reference PDF Opens New Window document?).

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