cholesterol question

skinnyjeanzbound
skinnyjeanzbound Posts: 3,932 Member
edited September 2024 in Fitness and Exercise
Hi-
When I donate blood I get a cholesterol result, but it's non-fasting since I'm supposed to eat before donating. I'm just wondering if anyone knows if a fasting cholesterol reading will always be lower than a non-fasting.

My non-fasting readings have been in the very low 200's. Does this mean my fasting blood test will be lower?

Thanks

Replies

  • Shweedog
    Shweedog Posts: 883 Member
    Should be. But it depends on the food you eat too. So, either the same or lower.
  • NA_Willie
    NA_Willie Posts: 340 Member
    I would have to assume so just because that only makes sense. My fasting cholesterol is in the low 200s so lucky you. Lol.
  • nehtaeh
    nehtaeh Posts: 2,849 Member
    They check your cholesterol when you donate blood? Mine only checks iron.

    I don't know the difference between fasting and non-fasting, I was just curious about the cholesterol checking.
  • Buckeyt
    Buckeyt Posts: 473 Member
    From what I've researched and read, there is little difference between the fasting and non fasting total cholesterol readings. The reason for fasting is to get an accurate triglyceride count.


    http://www.clinicaladvisor.com/nonfasting-vs-fasting-cholesterol-goals/article/117995/
  • peachlow
    peachlow Posts: 91
    A fasting test gives you a better 'bottom line'. This is the lowest you can expect the sugar and cholesterol figures to be. A fasting sample from my understanding is a more accurate indicator for you to use.

    If you have just eaten then the levels of sugar and cholesterol are determined by what you have just eaten – not by your body's ability to handle these substances.
  • clw_888
    clw_888 Posts: 157 Member
    I agree with above poster...

    A fasting test will never be higher than a non-fasting test. It all depends on what you have eaten lately. Your fasting will either be the same or lower.
  • peachlow
    peachlow Posts: 91
    More information on Fasting Versus Nonfasting for a Cholesterol Test

    Go to http://www.livestrong.com/article/458558-fasting-versus-nonfasting-for-a-cholesterol-test/

    Hope this info helps
  • gurgi22
    gurgi22 Posts: 182 Member
    Generally, the fasting cholesterol will be lower. It does depend on what and when you eat. If you eat 10 minutes before the test only the simple sugars in the food will have had any time to be digested and absorbed. Most food takes anywhere from 12 to 72 from the time you begin chewing to the time you eliminate any waste products. That is why they want people to fast for 8 to 12 hours before a test because it allows time for food to be processed. There will also be a difference if you eat an egg mcmuffin versus some fruit. An egg mc muffin will probably raise your non-fasting cholesterol while the fruit will probably make little difference.
  • skinnyjeanzbound
    skinnyjeanzbound Posts: 3,932 Member
    They check your cholesterol when you donate blood? Mine only checks iron.

    I don't know the difference between fasting and non-fasting, I was just curious about the cholesterol checking.

    I go to Lifesource to donate and 48 hours after donating you can call or check the website for your cholesterol reading. Not sure if other Blood Donor centers do this.

    Thanks for all of the info and links everyone--very helpful.:smile:
  • nehtaeh
    nehtaeh Posts: 2,849 Member
    They check your cholesterol when you donate blood? Mine only checks iron.

    I don't know the difference between fasting and non-fasting, I was just curious about the cholesterol checking.

    I go to Lifesource to donate and 48 hours after donating you can call or check the website for your cholesterol reading. Not sure if other Blood Donor centers do this.

    Thanks for all of the info and links everyone--very helpful.:smile:

    thanks! That is pretty cool though. Not only do you get to donate, but you get a mini-physical each time. :smile:
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