You sure would have donated blood. probably not with the intention of deriving any profit but to save a fellow human being’s life. But did you know that the act of donating blood has some unimaginable benefits? In a way, you’re additionally doing yourself a whole lot of good. Let’s get to know the amazing benefits of donating blood.
Benefits of donating blood
1. Blood Donation can Reveal Potential Health problems
You undergo an easy physical examination and a brief blood test before you donate blood. this is often necessary as any potential health issues unknown to you are revealed. Such issues include high blood pressure and low blood count.
If there are serious problems, the clinic will not draw your blood – and you’ll be notified why. This can be good news as you now have the time to take preventive action.
But keep in mind that you must never donate blood to examine the possibility of blood-borne diseases – including hepatitis B and C and HIV. You must instead consult your doctor for the same. The mini-physical examination before blood donation isn’t a substitute for a full health checkup.
2. Can Promote Heart Health
Blood donation reduces the blood’s viscosity and this could prevent heart attacks. A Nigerian study found that regular blood donation lowered total cholesterol levels and even LDL (the bad cholesterol), cutting the danger of cardiovascular disease.
Regular blood donation can even cut the risk of myocardial infarction (blockage of blood flow to the heart, causing a heart attack) in old men.
3. May Cut Cancer Risk
A 2008 study found a slight decrease in cancer risk among people who donated blood frequently. These cancers were linked to excess iron levels in the blood, and they include cancer of the liver, colon, esophagus, stomach, and also the lungs.
Frequent blood donation will lower excess iron levels in the blood, thereby reducing cancer risk. Interestingly, this phenomenon will cut the risk of cardiovascular disease as well.
4. Might help With Detoxification
Though studies are limited, we can say blood donation plays a role in detoxification. It paves the way for the production of new blood cells.
These are the most important advantages of blood donation. Donating blood may be a noble act. And we believe the first motive behind carrying it should be to save someone’s life.
Though common, most people aren’t aware of how to ensure a successful blood donation. The subsequent tips will help.
Keeping the following pointers in mind will make it more effective. You’re donating blood – and you sure wish to ensure you are giving your best.
What to do Before Donating Blood
- Stick to consuming only healthy and iron-rich foods a minimum of a few days before donation (if you’re not doing so already). These foods include spinach, beans, fish, and cereals fortified with iron. Iron deficiency is one common reason for deferrals.
- Get a good night’s sleep, particularly the night before blood donation.
- Have a balanced meal at least three hours before donating your blood. Avoid fatty foods like fries, hamburgers, etc.
- Drink more n more water (16 ounces) before donation. Dehydration is another common reason for deferrals.
- Wear a short-sleeved shirt or one with sleeves simple to roll up.
- Remember, you need to be at least seventeen years or older to donate blood. you must weigh a minimum of 110 pounds and be in a sensible state of health.
- You must inform the nurse if you’re on medication(s) or have any medical condition as this may interfere with your eligibility to donate blood.
What to do After Donating Blood
- Drink lots of fluids in the next 24-48 hours. This can replenish the fluids lost during the donation.
- Avoid exercise for the next twenty-four hours. Try not to lift any weights.
- In case you’re feeling lightheaded, understand that it’s normal. You can lie down with your feet elevated, and the feeling can pass.
- If something doesn’t feel right even after a short while, call the Donor Center and inform them. You may also visit the center and check if something is wrong with you.
- In addition to the precautions, you need to also be aware of the common misconceptions and learn to differentiate them from the facts.
Blood donation is totally safe for healthy adults. You may experience some side effects but these are principally common and subside after a short while. A number of the side effects include:
- Feeling nauseous or lightheaded
- Bleeding at the site of the needle injection/a bruise
- Arm pain or numbness
- A tingling sensation
- In case these effects persist even more hours, please consult the donor center.
Conclusion
Benefits of Donating blood sure will keep you healthy – that is probably the foremost necessary reason you must even do it. Start donating blood today. Leave a comment in the box below and let us know how this post has helped you.
