The Fasting Blood Glucose test, which is also called Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS) test, is a blood test that measures blood sugar levels. If you have elevated levels, it shows that your body cannot properly handle sugar, which can be a sign of diabetes and insulin resistance. For this test, you will be required to fast (not eat or drink) for 8 to 12 hours beforehand, following the guidance you got from your healthcare provider. A blood sample will be taken and sent to the lab, where the glucose levels are analyzed. A fasting glucose level of less than 100mg/dL is considered normal, a measurement between 110 – 125 mg/dL is a sign for impaired fasting glucose (for example because of pre-diabetes), and a value greater than 126 mg/dL in two or more sample is considered a sign of diabetes. Follow the instructions of your healthcare provider before, during and after the test.
Sources:
- Mayo Clinic. Diabetes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20371451 (accessed 3. August 2020)
- Cleveland Clinic. Blood Sugar Tests. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/16790-blood-sugar-tests (accessed 3. August 2020)
- WebMD. Diabetes Testing. https://www.webmd.com/diabetes/diagnosing-type-2-diabetes (accessed 3. August 2020)
