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Real members of DiabetesTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

I have to book an appointment for bloodwork. What is the best time of day for a person that gets hypoglycemia during the night to book?

A DiabetesTeam Member asked a question 💭
Halifax, NS

I am not close to the lab so have to get there too.

2 hours ago
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A DiabetesTeam Member

First thing in the morning is when our metabolic system is working at it's best (even if it's compromised)

All else being equal, particularly while fasting, before about noon our insulin production is most stable, our insulin resistance is minimal comparativly to later in the day so it's the time to establish "baselines" through testing

When I do my panel of labs twice a year I always try to book a time (can make appointments at the lab I use) no later than about 10 AM - earlier if possible when fasting because your system is "waiting for you to eat" to break the fasting cycle

If it's just an A1C then anytime is fine, if anything requires fasting, it should be done well before noon to get the best clinical results

16 mins ago
A DiabetesTeam Member

My doctor doesn't require fasting, unless I'm having my cholesterol labs drawn. She says it gives an idea if the anti diabetes meds are doing there job or not. @A DiabetesTeam Member I know you are having a lot to deal with. I really hate that. I wish they could find a cure for diabetes. Until then, we have to keep fighting the fight. I know you have been fighting hard. My doctor said over time our diabetes can change. Sometimes for the better, and sometimes for the worse. I hate to that you are having to wait so long for that Endocrinologist appointment. Also, on the day of lab draws, when I fast for cholesterol check. My doctor has the nurse to schedule me as soon as they open. She knows I have hypoglycemia if I go to long without eating, after getting out of bed

1 hour ago (edited)
A DiabetesTeam Member

Ask the lab or doctor how to do it or what you can do to keep sugar up. If it a fasting test I would plan it for 8 hours after breakfast.so you are not trying to treat a low from overnight that then takes away from fasting.

1 hour ago
DiabetesTeam

That's a really important question, especially with nighttime hypoglycemia in the mix! Timing bloodwork carefully can make a real difference in both your safety and the accuracy of your results.

For a fasting blood glucose test, you typically need to avoid food and drink (except water) for at least 8 hours beforehand. Here Show Full Answer

That's a really important question, especially with nighttime hypoglycemia in the mix! Timing bloodwork carefully can make a real difference in both your safety and the accuracy of your results.

For a fasting blood glucose test, you typically need to avoid food and drink (except water) for at least 8 hours beforehand. Here are some things to consider:

- Book an early morning appointment — this way, most of your fasting happens while you sleep, reducing the time you're awake and fasting
- Check your blood sugar before leaving home — since you experience nighttime lows, always test before heading out to make sure you're in a safe range
- Bring fast-acting glucose with you — glucose tablets, juice, or a sugary snack are essential for the journey, just in case levels drop
- Let the lab know about your hypoglycemia history when you arrive, so staff are aware

Since you're not close to the lab, the travel time adds risk. An early slot means you're less likely to have been fasting for an excessively long time by the time you arrive.

Most importantly, talk to your doctor before the appointment. They may have specific guidance on whether to adjust your insulin or medication timing the night before, given your history of nighttime lows.

2 hours ago

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