Can I drink water before taking a blood sugar test?

Before checking blood sugar levels, it is generally recommended to drink a small amount of water, but it is important to avoid consuming sugary drinks or drinking large amounts of water. The results of blood glucose testing may be affected by factors such as water intake and testing time. It is recommended to maintain an empty stomach before testing.

Blood glucose testing usually requires fasting for 8-12 hours, during which drinking a small amount of plain water will not significantly affect the test results. The human body absorbs water quickly, and drinking plain water within 200 milliliters one hour before testing generally does not interfere with blood sugar levels. However, it should be noted that the water temperature should not be too high to avoid stimulating gastrointestinal peristalsis and accelerating sugar absorption. Maintain a normal daily routine before testing and avoid vigorous exercise or emotional fluctuations, which may indirectly affect blood sugar levels through hormone regulation. If drinking sugary drinks, fruit juice, or liquids exceeding 300 milliliters, it may cause blood dilution or sugar absorption, resulting in low or high test values. Some sensitive individuals may experience stress-induced blood glucose fluctuations due to the effects of caffeine after consuming stimulating beverages such as coffee and strong tea. For those who need to undergo glucose tolerance tests simultaneously, they should strictly follow the doctor's advice to fast and avoid water, otherwise it may affect the accuracy of curve judgment. If you experience symptoms of thirst before the SEP test, you can sip a small amount of water to moisten your throat. Daily blood glucose monitors should pay attention to recording their diet and water intake, and explain to the doctor the specific drinking time and amount before the test. Diabetes patients should follow the doctor's advice to adjust their drinking habits before testing, and those with renal dysfunction should strictly control the amount of drinking water and testing interval.