Can I eat or drink before my blood draw?

It depends on your test orders.

If fasting is required:

Avoid all food and caloric beverages for 8–12 hours before your draw. You may drink plain water freely — in fact, staying hydrated is encouraged.

If fasting is NOT required:

You can eat and drink normally. A light meal is usually fine. Avoid high-fat meals directly before a lipid panel even if it is non-fasting, as it can transiently elevate triglycerides.

Always OK regardless of fasting status:

Avoid before most blood tests:

When in doubt, contact your ordering physician or call the lab that will process your specimens.