Hi
I've bought this test from Medichecks. Does it matter what time of the day I do the blood test? And should it be a fasting test?
Thank-you
Hi
I've bought this test from Medichecks. Does it matter what time of the day I do the blood test? And should it be a fasting test?
Thank-you
I do all my tests fasting and early morning, maybe not needed for all of them but it's easier to keep everything the same as far as I am concerned.
If you're supplementing any of them, leave off iron for 5-7 days, otherwise take supplements after test.
Iron tests of any kind (serum iron, ferritin etc) should always be done first thing in the morning having fasted over night. Just like SeasideSusie, I do all my tests that way, it makes life a lot easier. It is also a good idea to have left off any iron supplements for 7 days before testing (which is what STTM suggests).
I looked all over the place for confirmation that people should avoid iron supplements for a week before testing, and the only place I've found it is here :
Q: How can I know if I have iron overload/hemochromatosis? What tests should be performed? I hear that there is a DNA genetic test kit for hemochromatosis, is that true?
A: A simple series of blood tests which can be performed by any doctor or lab can indicate iron levels. They must be proper iron measures: Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) together with Serum Iron. Divide TIBC into Serum Iron to get the percentage of transferrin saturation also known as % of saturation.. It is important that the serum ferritin is also performed at the same time and it should be done, if possible, while fasting. Refrain from iron pills for a week prior to the tests.