In the United States, one in every seven people who are hospitalized needs a blood transfusion. Some of these individuals are those who lose blood during surgeries or women who experience complications during their pregnancy or childbirth. To raise global awareness of the great demand for safe blood and blood products for transfusion, on June 14 every year, people observe World Blood Donor Day.

Also, the day celebrates the important contribution unpaid donors make to the public health systems. With one donation, a donor can save up to three lives. If want to give the gift of life, you can do so at the nearest blood donation center anytime. Another option is to give blood on World Blood Donor Day to show your support for the cause.

But before you head to a local donation drive site, there are some things you need to remember before you donate. To help you have an easy and comfortable experience, here are some tips when donating blood.

Make an Appointment Beforehand

As World Blood Donor Day is observed worldwide, you can expect many people to organize blood drives during this time. In some locations, they may turn the donation drive into an event to get more people involved in the cause. You might see people giving out water and snacks to donors as well as special merchandise like silicone wristbands as gifts.

Since this day will be particularly busy, it’s best to make an appointment before you come to a blood donation center. When you call ahead, make sure to pick a schedule that best works for you and select a location that isn’t too far. Also, it will help make the initial process seamless. By the time you get to the location, you won’t have to wait long to register and donate blood since the staff is expecting you.

You’ll Undergo a Quick Medical Screening

A common procedure before you donate blood is a quick health check to make sure that you’re fit to give blood. You can expect the same process when you donate blood on World Blood Donor Day. During the mini-physical exam, health workers in the donation center will inquire about your medical history. They will also check your pulse, blood pressure, and body temperature, among other things. Also, you must be in good health at the time of donation. They won’t allow you to donate if you show any symptoms of a cold, flu, or even a stomach bug.

Additionally, you must meet the minimum hemoglobin level to donate blood. The healthcare professionals at the donation site will administer a quick test to find this out. As a general rule, females must have a hemoglobin level of no less than 12.0 g/dl to give blood. On the other hand, males can’t have less than 13.0 g/dl when donating blood.

It’s Best to Consume Iron-Rich Foods

Iron supports the production of hemoglobin in your blood. During the blood donation, your body will be giving away plenty of iron, so you need to ensure that you have enough in your body to keep your iron levels up by eating a lot of iron-rich foods before donating blood. Food that is rich in iron includes red meat, poultry, fish, beans, spinach, and raisins.

To help your body better absorb iron from the food you eat, supplement it by eating foods high in vitamin C such as broccoli, potatoes, brussels sprouts, strawberries, or any citrus fruit like oranges. Combining iron and vitamin C in your diet ensures you’ll be healthy during the donation.

Keep Yourself Hydrated

Staying hydrated before and after the donation will make you feel better. Water makes blood and other fluids in your body flow better. It will also help the donation process go quicker. If you drink more water, you’re less likely to feel light-headed while giving blood and you’ll be able to recover from the ordeal much faster. This usually happens because the reduction of blood in your body can lead to a drop in your blood pressure or heart rate.

That’s why it’s best to drink an extra two glasses of water or 500 ml before and after your blood donation. Instead of the daily recommendation of drinking eight glasses or two liters of water, you need to make it at least 10 glasses of water a day.

Wear Loose Comfortable Clothing on Donation Day

By wearing comfortable clothes, you’ll feel more at ease during the medical screening. When you’re uneasy, your blood pressure or heart rate may rise—which may make you ineligible to give blood on that day. Additionally, wearing tops that come with loose or no sleeves makes them easier to pull up so the health professional can easily insert the needle into your arm. It also takes away pressure from your upper arm, helping blood to flow better.

Donating blood is a noble act as you get to help save lives. However, there are preparations you’ll need to do before you donate. This way, you can stay healthy and comfortable throughout and after the process. Whether it’s your first time or you’re used to donating on World Blood Donor Day, make sure to check out some of the important reminders mentioned previously so that you can have a seamless and relaxed blood donation experience.