Not only does donating blood help doctors and hospitals save lives, it may also help you improve your own health. Frequent blood donation may reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke and peripheral vascular disease, reports Florida Blood Services. However, you should be cautious not to push your body too hard immediately after donating blood.
Short Term
The Red Cross recommends on their official blood donation guidelines that you not lift any heavy weights or perform any "strenuous" physical activities for about five hours after you finish your donation. Obviously, this means you should not schedule your normal workout routine for at least those five house. But, it also means that you should avoid any miscellaneous tasks, like carrying heavy groceries, that could lead to health problems after donating blood.
Recovery
During this five-hour rest period, there are several things you can do to help your body recover from the blood donation. Besides rest, your diet is the most important thing on which to focus. Drink plenty of water and other fluids to help your body replenish the missing blood, but avoid alcohol or caffeinated beverages. Eat a nutritious, balanced meal, including lean protein and complex carbs, to help with energy recovery and mineral replacement, especially iron.
Long Term
It takes your body about 48 hours to return your blood volume to normal levels after a donation, and about eight weeks to recover completely. Even after allowing yourself to rest during the first five-hour period after donating blood, you should still use caution regarding your level of activity. Return to your normal workout routine gradually, stopping if you notice any unusual shortness of breath or dizziness. Athletes should not donate blood for the two months before a major competition, since their performance could still suffer for some time after the blood donation.
Risks
There are several potential risks you could run if you do not follow the Red Cross's recommended rest period and recovery directions after donating blood. Dizziness, lightheadedness and even fainting are the most common complications. Of course, it is possible to experience these symptoms even if you do follow all Red Cross guidelines, but following them will significantly decrease your possibility of complications.
References
- American Red Cross: Tips for a Successful Donation
- Blood Center of Central Texas: After You Donate
- Rotary Blood Bank: Frequently Asked Questions
- Mun Fitness Blog; Can I Work Out or Exercise After Donating Blood?; Jan. 27, 2010
- Life Fitness Blog; Giving Blood and Exercise Do Not Mix; Christina; Jul. 18, 2008
- Florida Blood Services: Giving Blood Regularly Provides Health Benefits
