Who Should Get Fasting Blood Glucose Test?
                     Who Should Get Fasting Blood Glucose Test?
Being  the  primary  source  of  energy  for  the  body,  glucose  is  sourced  from  the 
carbohydrates we eat in the form of food. It is then absorbed into the bloodstream and 
transported  to  cells  for  energy,  which  helps  your  body  function.  Your  body  also 
regulates glucose levels through hormones like insulin to keep them within a healthy 
range.
Your doctor may recommend a  fasting glucose test to measure your blood sugar 
level after fasting for 8–10 hours. During this fasting period, you are suggested to 
drink only plain water. If you are unsure whether this test is right for you, your doctor 
can guide you based on your health and symptoms.
Who should get this test?    
   
A fasting blood sugar test may be recommended for people who have symptoms of 
diabetes or certain risk factors, such as:
Risk Factors
• Those who had diabetes running in their families.
• People over the age of 45
• Obese people
• Women with PCOS
• Women detected with gestational diabetes during pregnancy.
• You are pre-diabetic
• Adults diagnosed with chronic conditions like high blood pressure.
Symptoms
• Unexpected weight loss
• Frequent urge to pee
• Tingling or numbness in legs
• Blurred vision
• Increased thirst and hunger
• Taking time to heal cuts and wounds 
Preparations for the tests    
• Follow your doctor's guidelines.
• Drink plain water to stay hydrated while fasting. If you take any medications or 
have an existing health condition, speak with your doctor before the test.
• Wear loose, comfortable clothing that makes it  easy to access your arm for 
blood collection.
• Avoid smoking and strenuous physical activity during the fasting period.
• Do not eat any food while fasting, including fruits or snacks, as eating can 
affect the accuracy of your test results.
Lifestyle changes to manage blood sugar levels 
If  you have prediabetes  or  diabetes,  your  doctor  may recommend making certain 
lifestyle changes along with medical treatment, such as:
• Choose  healthier  sources  of  carbohydrates,  including  fruits,  vegetables  and 
whole grains, and limit refined and sugary foods such as white bread, cakes, 
cookies, sugary cereals, candy and chips.
• Limit your portion size and try to eat in gaps in smaller proportion.
• Avoid the consumption of sugary drinks, beverages, and packaged juices.
• Stay physically active, starting with light exercise and walking.
• Limit or avoid alcohol consumption.
• Practice  exercise,  yoga  and  meditation  to  manage  stress  levels  and  stay 
physically active and fit.
• Monitor your blood sugar levels. 
Diabetes is a serious health concern with no permanent treatment to cure it. However, 
you can manage it by tracking your blood glucose levels and knowing whether your 
ongoing treatment is working. Whether you have diabetes or are at risk of developing 
it (prediabetes), a fasting blood glucose test can help identify changes in your blood 
sugar levels early, allowing you to take timely steps to manage your health.
FAQs
1. Is it ok to eat chapatis if I have diabetes? 
Yes, eating whole wheat chapati is suggested, but it's better if you stick to 1 to 2 per 
meal. You can also try alternative grains by mixing wheat flour with fibre rich millets, 
such as jowar, bajra, and ragi. 
2. Is having a blood sugar level of 140 in the morning considered diabetes? 
A fasting blood glucose reading of 140 mg/dL in the morning is high and falls into 
the diabetes range. 
3. What foods should I avoid if I am diabetic? 
If you have diabetes, you should avoid sugary beverages, trans fats like packaged 
snacks, high-fat dairy, and refined carbohydrates. 
4. Which fruits should I eat with diabetes? 
Fruits that can help manage blood sugar levels are jamun, pomegranate, and berries.