What to Know About Giving Blood
Giving Blood For the First Time? Here's Everything You Need to Know
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Yay, you did it! Time to reward yourself with a snack and a bunch of fluids. The donation centre will have food for you to nosh on when you're done (something like an apple, chips, pretzels, or cookies) and bottles of water and juice to replenish fluids. Drink at least an extra four glasses (32 ounces total) of nonalcoholic beverages after your donation.
"Blood contains many substances, including red blood cells full of iron, white blood cells, plasma, and platelets, plus water and various nutrients and minerals, which is why it's critical that donors replenish their bodies with postdonation snacks and fluids," Patty said.
Don't lift anything heavy or do any strenuous activity afterwards, and it's best not to exercise for at least 24 hours after giving blood. If you feel dizzy or lightheaded at all, stop what you're doing and lie down until you feel better, Patty advised. And keep the bandage on for a few hours; clean around the area with soap and water to prevent a skin rash.
Now it's time to brag to your friends that you donated blood and saved a couple of lives! Just don't hit up happy hour — you have to wait at least 24 hours after your donation to drink alcohol.