Do you need to fast for a fatty liver examination?

Jul 30, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Since blood samples are required for biochemical tests, a fasting state ensures the accuracy of blood components and avoids interference from food intake, which could affect the accuracy of test results such as liver function. Additionally, eating may cause gastrointestinal bloating, which can interfere with ultrasound imaging of the liver, resulting in unclear images and making it difficult to accurately assess liver condition. Therefore, fasting is necessary when undergoing fatty liver examination.

In general, a fatty liver examination requires fasting. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek treatment under the guidance of a physician. The detailed analysis is as follows:

Fasting means having consumed no food for at least 8 hours. A fatty liver examination includes biochemical tests, liver ultrasound, CT and other imaging examinations, as well as assessments of liver fat content. Since biochemical tests require blood sampling, being in a fasting state ensures the accuracy of blood components and prevents post-meal changes from affecting the accuracy of liver function and other test results. Additionally, eating may cause gastrointestinal bloating, which can interfere with ultrasound imaging of the liver, resulting in unclear images and making it difficult to accurately assess liver condition. Therefore, fasting is necessary when undergoing a fatty liver examination.

In daily life, one should focus on developing healthy lifestyle habits, including regular作息 (sleep-wake cycles), balanced diet, and moderate exercise.