Tips on what to eat when giving blood

MadPanda75

So I am going to try and give blood tomorrow, but I wonder if there is anything I should be eating like should I include more protein, starch, etc in my diet? Should I up my calories for that day? Any pointers would be awesome!

pital74

I occasionally have issues with my iron levels when giving blood. I always try to load up before donating...usually with a suppliment, but there are a lot of iron rich foods too.

lizsmith1976

Good for you! I give blood every quarter at my company blood drive. If you have been exercising a lot then you need to protein and iron load (turkey, spinach, red meat) before going in there, but I usually do that for a week or so, not just a day I tend to be anemic at times though, that is the only reason I need to do it. Just make sure you eat a balanced meal with carbs and protein the night before and eat a hearty meal immediately after. I have never had any problems with nausea or faintness after, but if you do then have some sugar. That is the reason they always have OJ and oreo's at my blood drives. (I usually cheat and eat the oreo's - I figure I need the calories to make some new blood )

lisacornell

Iron is the main thing. They check that to make sure it is high enough. I get turned down every once in a while due to that.

The_Saint

Iron, Iron, Iron.

Perhaps a nice Beef with Broccoli stir fry?

beccala18

I always eat good solid (balanced) meals the day before/of donating blood. I then have to up my calories the next day by 200 or so. I'm just so hungry! I figure it balances out to eat a bit more to make sure my body has enough to function on.

Jewels211

Definitely the iron-rich foods &/or supplements. Even if your iron levels tend to be okay, donating is going to lower your blood levels and so they recommend keeping things as "rich" as possible. So spinach, broccoli, red meat if you eat it, and drink PLENTY of water, both the day before and a couple of days after. That will both help with replenishing your own blood volume more quickly after you've donated, but also doing so beforehand will help your blood vessels to be easy to find and get into, thus avoiding the not-fun can't-get-the-needle-into-the-vein game. :noway:

bcattoes

As already stated, iron. Red meat, beans, dark leafy greens are all good sources. Also, drink a lot of liquids. And don't feel guilty about eating the Little Debbie cakes they offer after you give. This is one case where you really do need the sugar.