Accurate results start with proper preparation
The reliability of a test depends not only on the laboratory instrument but also on how the sample is collected. Fasting time, medication, the time of sample collection and even what you ate the day before can affect the results. Below you will find a practical guide organized by common test groups. Since instructions specific to your test may differ, we recommend consulting our team when you book.
General preparation rules
Water intake
Keep drinking water even for tests that require fasting; plenty of water makes it easier to find a vein and collect the sample.
Diet
Eat a balanced diet as usual in the days before the test; very fatty, salty or sugary food can temporarily affect some results.
Sleep and stress
Lack of sleep and intense stress can affect some values, especially hormone tests. A regular night's sleep before your appointment is recommended.
Exercise and alcohol
Avoiding heavy exercise and alcohol for 24 to 48 hours before the test prevents temporary deviations in muscle and liver values.
Preparation by test group
Biochemistry tests that require fasting
Fasting blood glucose, lipid panel (cholesterol, triglycerides) and some liver tests usually require 8 to 12 hours of fasting. Only water should be consumed during this time; solid food, chewing gum, sugary or sweetened drinks, tea and coffee should be avoided. Fasting for more than 16 hours can also skew some values (e.g. triglycerides), so it is important to stick to the recommended range.
Hormone tests and cycle timing
Most hormone tests (such as FSH, LH, prolactin and testosterone) do not require fasting, but for reproductive hormones in women specific days of the menstrual cycle are preferred, and your physician will recommend the day for you. Telling us your last menstrual period or cycle day when you book helps us get the timing right. Thyroid tests (TSH, fT3, fT4) usually have no fasting requirement.
Genetic tests and sample type
Depending on the test, genetic panels can be run on a blood or saliva sample; we tell you which sample type is needed before your appointment. If you are giving a saliva sample, you are asked not to eat, drink, chew gum or brush your teeth for at least 30 minutes before the test, as oral flora can affect DNA purity. Genetic tests do not require fasting and samples can usually be collected at any time of day.
Medication and supplement use
Unless your physician says otherwise, continue taking your prescription medication as usual; if needed, you can take it with a small amount of water. Some supplements (e.g. high-dose biotin) can affect the results of certain hormone tests; always tell the laboratory staff about all medication, vitamins and supplements you take before sample collection. If you take blood thinners, mention this separately.
Check-up and broad panel tests
For check-up packages that combine several test groups, the strictest rule applies, so for most check-ups 8 to 12 hours of fasting and avoiding alcohol for 24 to 48 hours before the appointment are recommended. A light meal the evening before makes the morning sample collection more comfortable.
Accessing results
You can access your completed test results through AdaGen's secure online E-Results system . We recommend reviewing your results with your physician; if you have a question about any value, please contact us.