Drinking Red Wine Before a Cholesterol Test

There is a certain degree of preparation that needs to be taken by you before a cholesterol test. It all depends on the type of test, but a lipoprotein analysis which measures total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and triglyceries requires preparation for accurate results. Your health care provider will specify what you need to do, but in general you should not eat or drink (except water) for 14 hours and not consume alcohol for at least 48 hours. That means no red wine before a cholesterol test! A total cholesterol and HDL test does not require fasting, but might be recommended by your doctor.

If you do deviate from your instructions, you should alert the person collecting the sample how you did so. You should also inform them of medications you are taking including natural remedies. Keep in mind that over-exercising, dehydration, over-eating, and recent sexual activity can all alter your test results.

Why Would You Want To Drink Red Wine?

Studies have correlated a lower incidence of heart disease in individuals who drink red wine, but the studies have only observed people that drink red wine. The studies would be stronger if they observed and compared non-drinkers with red wine drinkers. So there is not a strong basis for its effect on heart disease as of yet, but red wine has been proven to increase HDL cholesterol and slightly decrease LDL cholesterol. This makes for definite benefits of consuming red wine in moderation.

Which is Better, Red or White Wine?

While both types will increase HDL cholesterol, red wine does contain more phenolic antioxidants than white wine. These antioxidants lower LDL cholesterol levels and reduce blood clotting. So, if you have a choice, red is better...