Medically reviewed by Dr. Riaz Ali Shah.
Each individual should do their part by donating blood as it is as beneficial for us as it is for the receiver. Did you know one donation can save as many as 3 lives!? Today, let’s learn about some of the benefits of donating blood that we are unaware of.
Reduces The Risk Of Heart Problems & Stroke
Various studies have suggested high iron in the body increases the risk of a heart attack. However, regularly donating blood lowers iron which eventually will reduce the risk.
Balances Blood Flow
Donating blood regularly helps to regulate blood flow. This act maintains the thickness of the blood. Donating blood basically prevents the thickening of the blood which causes it to become vicious, eventually damaging the lining of the blood vessels.
Ameliorates Liver Health
Reduction in the iron level due to blood donation helps reduce the further risks of liver related diseases such as liver failure, cirrhosis etc.
Keeps away extra pounds
Surprisingly and fortunately, a single blood donation helps to reduce to as much as 600-650 calories, helps to shed off extra body weight faster.
Helps To Form New Blood Cells
Our body works in such a way that after donating blood it replenishes the blood loss. This in turn stimulates the production of new blood cells which in turn maintains good health.
Nethers The Risk Of Cancer
Recents studies have shown that people who donated blood twice a year reduced their risk of cancer. By donating blood the iron which is already stored in the body is maintained at healthy levels.
Balances Iron In The Body
We all are aware how Iron has a significant impact on our body and an excess of it can cause a variety of diseases/ailments. However, by donating blood as much as 2000-250 mg of iron from the body gets reduced and therefore decreases the risk of Hemochromatosis (iron overload in the body).
Before donating, there are a few things to keep in mind which are as follows:
- One has to be 17 or older
- One has to weigh at least 110 pounds which is around 50 kgs.
- People with certain medical conditions which can affect your eligibility to donate blood.
- One should wait at least 8 weeks between whole blood donations.
Now that we know what to do before donating, let’s read some of the measures we should follow after donating..
- Hydrate yourself, drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water including juices within a day
- Try to avoid sun exposure
- Elevate your legs when you lie down to regulate blood supply to the brain
- Avoid drinking and smoking for next 4 to 6 hours
Let’s make an extra effort to save lives by donating blood. Just make sure to take all the precautionary measures before and after a donation.
