Fasting blood glucose (FBG) is one of the most common and important screening tests for diabetes and prediabetes. This simple blood test measures your blood sugar level after an overnight fast, providing a baseline measurement of how your body controls glucose. At Zain Cura Medical Center in Dubai, we perform fasting blood glucose testing with convenient early morning appointments (starting 07:00 AM) and home collection available 24/7. Results are ready in just 2-4 hours, and our DHA-licensed laboratory uses precise automated analyzers for accurate measurements.
Whether you're scheduling a routine health check or your doctor has recommended testing, understanding what this test measures and what your results mean is essential for informed health decisions.
Quick Facts
Essential information about the Fasting Blood Glucose test at a glance
What is a Fasting Blood Glucose Test?
A fasting blood glucose test measures the amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood after you haven't eaten for 8-12 hours. This fasting state allows doctors to see your "baseline" blood sugar – the level your body maintains when not actively digesting food.
When you eat, your body breaks down carbohydrates into glucose and your blood sugar rises. Your pancreas releases insulin to help cells absorb glucose. By fasting overnight, your blood sugar returns to its resting level, giving doctors a true baseline measurement unaffected by recent food intake.
What Does This Test Detect?
Primary screening test for diabetes and impaired fasting glucose
Why Your Doctor Orders This Test
The Fasting Blood Glucose is commonly ordered to screen for, diagnose, or monitor medical conditions. Your doctor may recommend this test as part of routine health screening, to investigate symptoms, or to track your response to treatment.
Why Get a Fasting Blood Glucose Test?
Initial Diabetes Screening
If you have risk factors for diabetes (family history, overweight, sedentary lifestyle, age over 45), fasting blood glucose is often the first test ordered to screen for diabetes or prediabetes.
Monitoring Blood Sugar Control
If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, regular fasting blood glucose tests help your doctor assess how well your treatment plan is working and whether medication adjustments are needed.
Routine Health Checkup
Many doctors include fasting glucose as part of comprehensive annual health screenings, especially for executive health packages, pre-employment medical exams, and pre-surgery assessments.
Evaluating Prediabetes Risk
If you have prediabetes (fasting glucose 100-125 mg/dL), regular testing helps track whether lifestyle changes are preventing progression to diabetes.
When Should You Get This Test?
Consider getting tested if you have these symptoms or risk factors
Symptoms to Watch For
- •Excessive thirst
- •Frequent urination (especially at night)
- •Unexplained weight loss
- •Fatigue and weakness
- •Blurred vision
- •Slow-healing cuts or infections
Risk Factors
- •Family history of diabetes
- •Overweight or obesity (BMI over 25)
- •Sedentary lifestyle
- •Age 45 or older
- •High blood pressure
- •High cholesterol
- •History of gestational diabetes
Recommended Testing Frequency
Every 3 years as baseline screening
Every 1-2 years depending on risk level
Every 6-12 months to monitor progression
As recommended by doctor (often 1-2 times yearly for well-controlled patients)
Normal Reference Ranges
These ranges are general guidelines. Your results should be interpreted by your doctor in the context of your individual health status and medical history.
Important: Normal ranges may vary based on age, sex, and individual factors. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized interpretation of your results.
How to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these simple preparation guidelines for accurate results
Pre-Test Preparation
8-12 hours fasting required. Water allowed. No food, beverages, or medications (except as prescribed)
What to Do
- • Bring valid ID (Emirates ID, passport, or driver's license)
- • Wear comfortable, short-sleeved clothing
- • Stay hydrated (drink water before test)
- • Arrive 10 minutes early for check-in
- • List current medications and supplements
What to Avoid
- • No food or drinks (except water) for 8-12 hours before test
- • Avoid alcohol 24 hours before test
- • Don't skip prescribed medications without consulting doctor
- • Avoid stress and anxiety before blood draw
Related Laboratory Tests
Tests often ordered together for comprehensive health assessment
Random Blood Glucose
Blood sugar measurement at any time of day, regardless of meals
HbA1c (Hemoglobin A1c)
Average blood glucose control over 3-month period; reflects long-term glycemic control
Average Blood Glucose (Calculated from HbA1c)
Estimated average glucose level derived from HbA1c percentage
Insulin (Fasting)
Measures fasting insulin levels to assess pancreatic beta-cell function and insulin resistance
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about the Fasting Blood Glucose test
How Long Do I Need to Fast?
The standard fasting period is 8-12 hours. Overnight fasting (from evening before) makes this easy. Don't fast longer than 12 hours – it can affect results.
Can I Drink Water While Fasting?
Yes, absolutely. Drink plenty of water. It helps with blood draw and doesn't affect glucose test. Avoid flavored water, juice, or drinks with sugar.
When Should I Get Tested – What Time?
Early morning is best (7:00-8:00 AM after overnight fasting). Zain Cura offers appointments starting at 07:00 AM for convenience.
Will My Results Be Affected by Stress or Illness?
Yes. Stress, illness, or recent infections can temporarily raise blood glucose. If you're sick, consider rescheduling your test. If you test high, your doctor may recommend retesting after recovery.
What if I Accidentally Ate Before the Test?
Notify the phlebotomist or your doctor. The test should be rescheduled since fasting is critical for accurate interpretation.
How Often Should I Get Tested?
For healthy adults: every 3 years. With risk factors: every 1-2 years. With prediabetes: every 6-12 months. With diabetes: as recommended by your doctor.
Can I Take My Medications While Fasting?
Usually yes, but check with your doctor. Some medications affect glucose levels. If you take medications, mention this when booking.
Is Home Collection Available for Fasting Tests?
Yes! Home collection is available 24/7. Our phlebotomist will come to your home at your preferred early morning time. Same fasting requirements apply. Book via smart assistant.
Recommended Test Packages
- Fasting Glucose
- HbA1c
- Lipid Profile
- Comprehensive Metabolic Panel