Is donating blood good for your health?
You have probably heard the urgent pleas for blood donations around the world. The Red Cross reports it is experiencing the worst blood shortage in over a decade, while the demand remains high. Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood. The Canadian Blood Services CEO says the need for new donors is higher than ever. Australia’s Lifeblood is also pleading for donors, as COVID has caused more than 20 percent of its donors to stop donating.
We all know that donating blood is good for the recipients. Just one pint can save up to three lives. But did you know that giving blood is also good for the donor? This is truly a case of it’s better to give than to receive…okay maybe not better, but pretty darn good.
But first an important reminder: I did not go to medical school and am not a doctor. Please contact a real-life medical professional for medical advice. I am, however, a regular blood donor…so that’s something.
The health benefits of giving blood
- You get a free health screening. Before your donation, your vital signs are checked and some basic blood work done. In the U.S., that includes taking your blood pressure, pulse, and temperature and checking the hemoglobin level in your blood. After your donation, but before your blood is given to a patient, a dozen tests are performed, establishing the blood type and checking for infectious diseases. All of this at no charge to you!
- Regular blood donation is good for your heart. I’m not speaking in metaphors here. Blood donation is literally physically good for your heart. Regular blood donation has been linked to lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of heart attack or stroke. Dr. David Dragoo explains that high levels of iron in the blood constrict your blood vessels and create more risk of a heart attack. Depleting those extra iron deposits by donating blood gives your vessels more room to operate.
- You feel good. So often, we hear bad news and we feel helpless. Donating blood is a way you can contribute to solving a problem and literally save lives. People who regularly volunteer or contribute to society in this way have lower rates of depression, feel less lonely, and even live longer.
- BONUS: You get free snacks, and because replacing the pint of blood you donated requires approximately 650 calories, you can eat those snacks guilt free! (Of course, you should always enjoy your snacks guilt free, but I’m just saying…)
It’s a win-win
Donating blood is good for the giver and the receiver…a true win-win situation. Why not celebrate Valentine’s Day with a blood donation this year!
Your turn
- Have you ever donated blood? What was your experience?
- What are you doing for your heart health in February?
- Do you celebrate Valentine’s Day? If so, how?
- What else is on your mind? Anything at all; I just love hearing from you.
I’ve never donated blood. I cannot tell you why I haven’t because I’ve never thought about it. Fascinating facts you share here. I knew none.
I was surprised when I gave blood this last time, and the Red Cross worker mentioned regular donation lessened the risk for stroke, so I went home and started researching. My experience has been that blood donation is quick, easy, relatively pain free, and leaves me feeling good about my contribution.
Hi Christie, I had a bad experience giving blood a few years ago and ended up in the hospital emergency room. While it is a noble thing to do and very much needed, it isn’t for everyone. Funny thing is, I am a very healthy person and had donated in the past. The doctor said my adverse reaction was likely due to low blood sugar and possibly dehydration. He strongly advised me to NEVER donate again. For those who can, I highly recommend taking your advice to give.
That is so scary, Suzanne. I’m glad you were okay. You make a good point. Not everyone can give blood, which makes it even more important for those who can to do so. And it’s a good reminder to eat a healthy meal the night before and drink plenty of water. The Red Cross website had great advice for preparing for your donation. Well…not YOUR donation…since I’m sure you will follow your doctor’s advice to never do that again. Take care of yourself.
How interesting! I knew about the health screenings but not the benefits to your heart. Because of a prior medical challenge I had, I can’t give blood, but I really appreciate those that can… and do!
I was surprised by that bit of good news too, Janis. I understand that not everyone can give blood for various reasons, so I feel privileged that I am able to contribute in this way. The health benefits are an added bonus!
I think the first time I donated blood may have been with you, many years ago. I used to donate as often as allowed. As you know, after my second bout with cancer I was told I could not donate any more. It’s been almost 15 years that I’ve been cancer free and I wonder if they would want my blood now? With such a high need I really should check. I had not realized it was healthy for me to donate, other than feeling good for doing it. ?
I forgot about that, Cindy. Thanks for the memory. If you find out you can donate again, let’s plan a repeat donation date!
Hi, Christie – I have had a health challenge in the past that prevented me from giving blood. I haven’t tried again to do so — now just may be the time!
Hello Donna. I’m actually surprised by the number of people who have responded they are unable to give blood. I suppose that is an added reason for those of us who can to get out and do it.
Christie – what a great post! I gave a direct blood donation to someone I knew having surgery once – but for many years borderline anemia kept me from donating. I’m thinking post-menopause this may not be as much of an issue. I’ve been telling my husband I should try again (he give regularly) — and this post is the perfect nudge. Thanks!
Hello Janet. That must have felt good to help someone you care about with a blood donation. I hope you are able to donate again. Good luck!
Thanks for sharing the benefits. I never got into the habit because for years I took a medication that was considered a no-no for blood donors to take. Now – absolute fear of needles and bad veins maybe. Yes, when I need to have blood taken or get an IV, almost every time I end up black & blue as they search (and miss) for a decent vein. I hear your call, but the fear of being black & blue (painfully inflicted) is kinda hard to overcome.
I understand, Pat. My husband has had a number of surgeries and procedures that require IVs, and his veins are worse for the wear. I can’t imagine he’d want to go through that voluntarily.
I used to give blood every two months through our blood drives at work. I have good veins in both arms and never had issues, unless the person sticking me wasn’t very good!! I stopped when I started experiencing vertigo, not wanting to do anything that might trigger it. I think I could probably give again. My husband donates regularly. And I did love the snacks!!
Hello Linda. I have pretty good veins too and, after the initial stick, don’t mind the process at all. I have had some mild bouts of vertigo on occasion, but luckily not triggered by blood donation. Yea for snacks!