FBS (Fasting Blood Sugar)

An FBS (Fasting Blood Sugar) test measures the level of glucose (sugar) in the blood after a period of overnight fasting. This test is done when a person experiences symptoms of high or low blood sugar levels, or to assess a person’s risk for diabetes. It is often done as part of a routine health checkup. 

Glucose is the primary energy source for the body. Carbohydrates in your food are broken down into glucose that is then absorbed into the bloodstream and transported to your cells for energy. Insulin, produced by the pancreas, regulates the level of blood glucose in the body. A lack of insulin or its reduced effectiveness can result in high blood glucose levels.

High blood glucose levels can be a sign of diabetes or prediabetes (a condition where a person has high blood glucose levels but not yet at a level that qualifies as diabetes). Early detection and treatment of diabetes are important to prevent complications such as heart disease, kidney damage, and nerve damage. An FBS test helps screen for prediabetes and diabetes and also checks the effectiveness of medications or lifestyle changes for the diagnosed people.

Fasting for at least 8-12 hours is recommended before undergoing an FBS test. Do not eat or drink anything other than water during the fasting period. It is also important to inform your doctor about any medicines you are taking, as some of them may affect your blood glucose levels and need to be adjusted or temporarily discontinued before the test.

Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. The results will help them determine your medical condition, make recommendations for lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise, determine whether or not medication will be required to manage your condition, and formulate your overall treatment plan.