Is fasting required for liver function tests?

Mar 20, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Gao Jun

Introduction

Liver function tests usually require fasting, as food intake can affect the accuracy of indicators such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). Eating may cause changes in blood concentration and lead to precipitation in the serum, thereby affecting test results. To ensure accuracy, it is recommended to fast for 8–12 hours and maintain a light diet, avoiding alcohol consumption and strenuous exercise.

Generally, liver function tests usually require fasting. The detailed explanation is as follows:

Liver function tests primarily assess whether there is liver damage, the severity of the damage, and its specific causes by measuring indicators such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, and indirect bilirubin. These values can be affected by food intake. After eating, blood concentration may change and could even affect the serum, causing precipitation in the serum, which may lead to inaccurate test results and increase the risk of missed diagnosis. Therefore, it is recommended to perform the test after fasting for at least 8–12 hours.

In addition, before undergoing a liver function test, it is advisable to maintain a light diet and avoid consuming spicy or irritating foods. Alcohol consumption and strenuous exercise should also be avoided, as these factors may influence the diagnostic results.

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