health
Saving lives, priority that it is, is just the start – donating blood also boosts your health, happiness, and even burns calories.
When you donate blood, you give patients a gift money can’ t buy and science can’ t create. One unit of blood can save up to three lives because donated blood is separated into red blood cells, plasma, and platelets – each of which can be given to a different patient. And on top of literally saving lives, there are other benefits to donating blood, and they’ re all for you!
Free health screening
Every time you donate, you get a mini health screening. When donating, the healthcare worker has to check your vitals to make sure you are eligible for donation – that includes your pulse, blood pressure, body temperature, and haemoglobin levels. If they spot anything, for example high blood pressure or anaemia, they’ ll direct you to see a physician. And, all blood donation units are tested for HIV / Aids, hepatitis B and C, as well as syphilis.
Boosts heart and vascular system
Did you know that donating blood is actually good for your heart? Studies have found that regular donation may reduce cardiovascular risk factors. Because blood donation lowers the viscosity of blood, it lowers your haemoglobin levels, thereby reducing the risk of blood clots, heart attacks and strokes.
Happier, longer life
Donating blood is one of the more selfless acts you can do. Studies have found that when we do acts of good, like volunteering or donating blood, our body releases feel-good hormones like serotonin and dopamine. This is called the helper’ s high, and it can reduce stress and provide a sense of happiness. And less stress, of course, is linked to a happier, longer life.
Burns calories
That’ s right – donating blood burns calories! It takes 500 calories with each donation, so that juice and / or cookie you get at the end is essentially a guilt-free treat. �
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