Check out the benefits, tips and requirements for donating blood

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia – World blood donor day is celebrated every June 14. So, what are the benefits and requirements for donating blood?

Health Practitioner Doctor Ngabila Salama said that blood donation can reduce the risk of heart and blood vessel disease, reduce the risk of cancer, help reduce weight, detect serious illnesses, and make you psychologically healthier and prolong life.

“Apart from that, you also feel happy because you have done good deeds and also received charity. Donating blood can also balance iron in the blood, thereby preventing heart disease, stroke and other blood vessels,” he said in a short message received by CNBC Indonesia, Friday (14 /6/2024).

According to Ngabila, blood donation can also reduce Hb levels in the blood, renew red blood cells regularly to prevent premature aging, and burn calories regularly.

So, what are some tips before donating blood? Ngabila explained that donors can get enough sleep for at least 7 hours for three days before donating, do not take any medicines one day before donating, and wear comfortable clothes, especially on the arm for inserting the donor needle.

Then drink more water, especially 24 hours before donating, around 2-3 liters per day or the equivalent of 10 glasses per day. For Muslims, continued Ngabiila, you can drink 1 glass of water before and after prayer.

Ngabila also suggests that foods that are nutritious and high in iron are recommended, avoid fizzy drinks and alcohol, and consume too much red meat.

“It is recommended to drink three glasses of water before donating. Don't do strenuous exercise beforehand. Before donating, try to consume food 3-4 hours before donating. If hemoglobin is usually high, then reduce green vegetables, coconut milk and meat 3 days before donating (contains iron high), and if Hemoglobin is used to being low below 12, consume foods with high iron,” said Ngabila.

Regarding blood donation preparations, he said, donors can ensure their body is healthy/fit, bring personal identification or a donor card, and do not donate if their body feels tired.

“After the donor rests for 10 minutes before doing other activities, don't remove the plaster for several hours, also to avoid swelling due to needle marks, avoid lifting heavy objects for 12 hours, and drink lots of water after donating,” said Ngabila.

The following are the conditions for donating blood:

1. Physically and spiritually healthy
2. Age 17 – 60 years for first time donors
3. Minimum weight of 45 kg
4. Blood pressure ranges from 90/60 to 160/100 mmHg
5. Hb 12.5 – 17 g / dL
6. Pulse 50 – 100 times per minute
7. Normal body temperature is 36.5 – 37.5 degrees Celsius
8. Not currently taking special medicines
9. Pass health screening

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(miq/miq)