World Blood Donor Day 2018

 

Today is World Blood Donor Day which is being observed to raise awareness about the need for donating blood regularly to enhance the availability of safe blood and its products for patients in need.

Listed below are the five health benefits of donating blood that you will be surprised to know.

World Blood Donor Day is observed around the world on June 14. This day is also important because we thank blood donors who volunteer to donate their life-saving gift of blood. This also acts as an encouragement for others who are otherwise hesitant to volunteer in the noble cause. According to validated facts by the World Health Organisation (WHO), the blood transfusion can potentially save several lives, but many times many patients needing transfusion do not have safe blood readily available.

Many times patients suffering from life-threatening conditions can be saved by blood donation thus gifting them a healthy and normal lifespan with a higher quality of life. Blood donation is not only saving lives but also it has great health benefits to the donor as well.

To find out about the surprising benefits, read below:

Weight loss: Timely donating blood helps in reduction of weight and improving fitness in healthy adults. According to the University of California researchers, donating a pint of blood i.e., 450 ml helps your body burn about 650 calories. But it must not be thought or encouraged as a weight loss plan. Doctor consultation before donating blood is a must, to avoid any health issues.

Prevents hemochromatosis: Donating blood can lower the risk or may prevent the development of hemochromatosis, a condition in which there is an excess absorption of iron by the body. Regular blood donation may lower iron overload, hence proving it beneficial for people with hemochromatosis. However, it is imperative to ensure that the mandatory standards of blood donation eligibility criteria are met by the donor with hemochromatosis.

Reduce heart disease risk: Regular blood donation keeps in check the iron levels, which lowers the risk of heart disease. A large amount of iron build up in the body can cause oxidative damage which has proven to be a major culprit in accelerating aging, heart attacks, strokes, etc.

Lower cancer risk: Higher levels of iron in the body are an invitation to cancer. By donating blood, you can maintain healthy iron levels, thereby lowering your risk of developing cancer.

Enhance new blood cell production: Blood donation stimulates the production of new blood cells. After donating blood, your body’s system gets to work within 48 hours of donation with the help of bone marrow new blood cells are produced and all the lost Red Blood Cells are replaced within a span of 30 to 60 days. Hence, donating blood helps in maintaining vital health.

So, donate blood regularly and help others Live Life More!!!