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Step 1
Prepare in advance. Giving blood means a drop in your energy level. Provide your body with the fuel it needs to fight this drop. When you plan to give blood, eat regular meals and drink plenty of fluids beforehand unless your doctor gives you other instructions. (Some types of testing require fasting beforehand, for example.)
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Step 2
Take advantage of available snacks and drinks after donating blood. Often, there will be cookies and juice available at Red Cross blood donation centers. The purpose is twofold; as a courtesy and to assist you in restoring the fluids and nutrients that you've lost through blood donation. Without this replenishment, you may feel light-headed and dizzy. Fainting after blood donation can also be a problem. It's important to eat and drink after donating blood; particularly before attempting to drive.
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Step 3
Bring a small snack; especially if you're undergoing blood testing where snacks may not be readily available. A high energy granola bar and a sports drink can be good choices to help return your body to healthy blood sugar levels.
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Step 4
Drink plenty of fluids right after donation, and also throughout the remainder of the day. Dehydration caused in part from blood donation can cause headaches and cramping that makes you feel unwell.
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Step 5
Make certain you overcome any feelings of dizziness or light-headedness before leaving the donation area. If necessary, find a comfortable seat and stay a short while until you feel like yourself again.
Comments
jflotta said
on 11/19/2009 Would either a regular donation or donating extra red blood cells cause a spike in blood sugar?