To ensure the most accurate results for your Weight Loss or Men’s Health evaluation, please follow these instructions carefully.
1. Fasting Requirements (Ayuno)
Most of our metabolic and hormone panels require you to be in a fasting state.
- Duration: Do not eat or drink anything (except water) for 8 to 12 hours before your blood draw.
- Why? Food can temporarily alter your blood sugar (glucose), insulin, and lipid levels (cholesterol/triglycerides).
2. Hydration is Key (Hidratación)
- Drink plenty of water before your appointment.
- Why? Being well-hydrated makes your veins easier to find, making the process faster and less painful.
- Note: Black coffee or plain tea (no sugar, no milk) is usually okay, but water is best.
3. Timing of the Test (El Horario)
- Morning is best: We recommend scheduling your lab appointment between 7:00 AM and 10:00 AM.
- Why? Hormone levels (especially Testosterone) are at their peak in the morning and fluctuate throughout the day.
4. Supplements and Medications (Suplementos y Medicinas) 💊
- Biotin Warning: Stop taking supplements containing Biotin (Vitamin B7) at least 72 hours before your test. Biotin is common in “Hair, Skin, and Nails” vitamins and can significantly interfere with hormone and thyroid results.
- Regular Meds: Continue taking your prescribed medications (blood pressure, etc.) unless specifically told otherwise by your provider.
5. Activity Restrictions (Actividad Física) 🏃♂️
- Avoid Intense Exercise: Refrain from heavy workouts for 24 hours before the test.
- PSA (Men’s Health): If you are having a PSA test, avoid ejaculation and cycling for 48 hours prior, as these can artificially elevate the results.
Where to go? (¿A dónde ir?)
Once you receive your electronic order from Novus Medical Center, you can visit any of our partner locations. No appointment is strictly necessary at most locations, but it is highly recommended to reduce wait times.
- Texas: LabCorp, Quest Diagnostics, or CPL. (Anyone in your area)
- Florida: LabCorp or Quest Diagnostics. (Anyone in your area)