World Blood Donor Day: Stick to low-fat meal 4 hrs before donating; skip if you have consumed alcohol the previous day

The world needs more kind souls who can come forward and donate blood voluntarily. Blood donation not only can save lives, but it can also give the donor a sense of satisfaction to have helped someone in need.

While blood donation is an act of kindness, the awareness about it is little. Several reports state that India is facing a major blood shortage.

An April 2022 national-level estimation study, published in Plos One journal, indicated a demand and supply gap of 2.5 donations per 1,000 eligible persons which is around one million units.

Blood donation has many health benefits, says Dr Kishore Jha, Consultant - Transfusion Medicine at Suasth Hospital, Navi Mumbai.

Replenish Blood: After donating blood, the body produces new cells to enhance overall health and works towards replacing the volume of blood lost within 48 hours of donation.

Improves heart health: With the reduction in iron levels due to donation, the blood viscosity is significantly reduced. This further protects the body against cardiovascular diseases and minimises heart attack risks.

Acts As Mini Medical Check-Up: To donate blood, one has to undergo a health screening test and a mini blood test like blood pressure and haemoglobin level check. The entire process can help individuals find an ongoing unknown health problem.

Makes You Happy: Donating blood releases happy hormones that elevate the mood.

Planning To Donate Blood? Follow These Steps:

• Check your vitals such as blood pressure before donating
• Ensure you pick a blood donation camp that is safe and hygienic
• Ensure your health expert is using fresh syringes
• Make sure you know your blood type before you go in
• Consume iron-rich foods a few days before the donation
• Make sure you eat a healthy, low-fat meal four or more hours before donating blood
• Never donate blood on an empty stomach

One must ensure they do not donate blood if s/he has consumed intoxicating drugs or alcohol 48 hours before donation.

Pregnant mothers and menstruating women are not allowed to donate blood. People who weigh less than 45 kg or are under 18 years of age should not donate blood. If you have had any infections such as cold or flu, refrain from donating blood.

Check with an expert if you have contracted malaria, tuberculosis, chicken pox, etc, before. Also, those with chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension should get medical clearance before donating. People who are suffering from Hepatitis B and C and HIV cannot donate blood.

Things To Remember After Donating Blood:

• Eat well, but don't rush. The body takes a minimum of 24 hours to replenish the quality of blood donated.
• Drink fruit juices or munch on a light snack like fruit right after the donation
• Hydrate yourself, preferably with water
• Avoid intake of caffeine or any heavy physical activity
• Don't smoke immediately after donating blood as it can make you feel light-headed and dizzy