She Strengthens

The Hydration Lowdown: Can You Drink Water While Fasting?

Water is essential for our bodies, and we all know its numerous benefits. But what about when you’re fasting? Can you still drink water, or does it interfere with the process? Let’s dive into the details.

Fasting for Blood Tests

When preparing for a blood test, it’s generally okay to drink water unless your healthcare professional advises against it. However, it’s crucial to follow the rules to ensure accurate test results. Some common blood tests that require fasting include:

• Liver function test (8-12 hours)
• Basic metabolic panel (8-12 hours)
• Glucose test (overnight 8-10 hours)
• Vitamin B complex test (overnight 8-10 hours)

After the Blood Test

Once you’ve completed your blood test, you can eat and drink as usual. In fact, the American Red Cross recommends consuming iron-rich foods to help your body recover faster.

Intermittent Fasting

Intermittent fasting is a diet that involves alternating periods of eating and not eating. Research suggests that it may come with health benefits, such as lower blood sugar and insulin levels. The good news is that water doesn’t affect these levels, so you can drink it during your fasting periods. However, if you’re doing dry fasting, which restricts all foods and liquids, you’ll need to avoid water as well.

Preparing for a Medical Procedure

The type of procedure you’re undergoing will determine whether you can drink water beforehand. Your healthcare professional will provide specific instructions on what’s allowed and when. For surgeries, you may need to fast for 8-12 hours, and drinking water may be restricted 2 hours before the procedure.

Drinks That Won’t Break Your Fast

If you’re craving more than just plain water, there are other options that won’t break your fast:

• Black coffee (not allowed before some blood tests/medical procedures)
• Unsweetened tea
• Flavored water (sugar-free/calorie-free)
• Sparkling water (sugar-free/calorie-free)
• Lemon water (sugar-free/calorie-free)
• Bone broth (not allowed before some blood tests/medical procedures)

Remember to always check with your healthcare professional about what’s allowed before your surgery or procedure.

The Bottom Line

In most cases, drinking water while fasting is okay, but it’s essential to follow your healthcare professional’s guidance. Be sure to ask questions and clarify any doubts you may have. With the right information, you can stay hydrated and healthy while fasting.