If you’ve ever wanted to be a hero without wearing a cape or saving kittens from trees, donating blood might be your moment. One pint can save up to three lives, according to the American Red Cross—now that’s some serious superhero math.
However, before you roll up your sleeve, there’s a little prep work to make sure your blood-giving mission is safe and smooth. Firstly, you need to hydrate, your veins will thank you, and it helps prevent post-donation wooziness according to the World Health Organisation.
The organisation also recommends eating a good meal a few hours before your appointment to keep your blood sugar levels steady. My younger brother, who is a student doctor, has donated blood a few times, and he states that if you are feeling sniffly or under the weather, it’s best to halt your mission and wait until you’re 100% better.
He mentions that donating while sick can pose a risk to both you and the person receiving your blood. Most clinics will also ask a few health and travel screening questions, just to keep things safe and legit. According to the South African National Blood Service (SANBS), donors should weigh at least 50kg, be between 16–75 years old, and lead a low-risk lifestyle.
The above source further adds that after the needle comes out, you’re not quite done; you need to rest for a few minutes, sip on the juice or snack they offer, and avoid heavy lifting for the next 24 hours. It’s your moment to lie back and bask in your life-saving glow.
According to NHS Blood and Transplant, your body will actually refill the lost blood in a few weeks, and you can give whole blood every 8 weeks and platelets more often. Regular donors are said to be vital for hospitals to maintain blood supply levels.
So go ahead, make the appointment. You don’t need to be rich, famous, or fluent in three languages to make a difference. You just need a good heart—and about 30 minutes of your day.
Also see: Tips to regulate your blood pressure
