National Blood Donor Month

Blood donations are crucial beginning in January and throughout the year for surgeries, anemia, and other medical procedures. Not everyone can donate blood due to having the flu, having low iron, chronic diseases, or certain medications. However, if you are healthy and have a tattoo, you can donate blood. If your tattoo parlor uses sterile needles and does not reuse the ink for the tattoos, you can donate blood. Also, you must have a healthy weight and eat foods that contain iron before donating blood.

You do not have to know your own blood type in order to donate. After donating blood, you will feel good about helping others live. Also, donating blood improves your emotional health and your physical health. In some states, you will need parental consent if you are sixteen years old in order to donate blood. Blood donations begin at the age of sixteen years and older.

Anyone who is healthy can donate blood. Before donating blood, eat a healthy meal, drink sixteen ounces of water, and get some sleep the night before donating blood. Avoid eating sugary foods and fatty foods. Nonetheless, you will be saving someone’s life. Here are more resources about donating blood.  

Celebrate National Blood Donor Month:
https://www.redcross.org/about-us/news-and-events/news/2018/Celebrate-National-Blood-Donor-Month-this-January-and-Help-Save-a-Life.html

Donating Blood: What You Need To Know:
https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-to-expect-when-you-give-blood#1

Blood Donation-Mayo Clinic:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/blood-donation/about/pac-20385144

Questions about Donating Blood:
https://www.redcrossblood.org/faq.html#eligibility

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