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Why Donating Blood Can Be Good for You

Donating blood to those in need is a noble act, but did you also know it can benefit your overall wellness? Find out how now.

General Health

January 07, 2020 | HF Healthy Living Team

Are you thinking of donating blood? Not only would you be helping a number of people in need, but you might even be improving your own health and wellbeing as well! Find out where to donate in New York and more here.

Always be sure to speak with your doctor before donating blood if you have a specific health condition or iron deficiency.

Click the photos below to find out why giving blood can be good for you.

Can Increase Antioxidant Levels

Can Increase
Antioxidant Levels

Antioxidants are nutrients the body needs, such as essential vitamins and minerals found in a healthy diet. They can help prevent or delay cell damage. Blood donation has shown to increase antioxidant levels by reducing oxidative stress, an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidant levels.

Can Lower Your Risk of a Heart Attack

Can Lower Your Risk
of a Heart Attack

Heart disease causes one in every four deaths in the U.S. A healthy diet and lifestyle are the keys to reducing your risk, but giving blood can also help. One study that tested middle-aged men found that 88 percent of blood donors had a reduced risk of heart attacks compared to non-donors.

Free Health Screening Included

Free Health
Screening Included

Has it been a while since you’ve had a checkup? When you donate blood, you’ll likely get your blood pressure and pulse tested, along with a quick body check. You’ll also be told if your blood shows any signs of disease, always confidentially. See your doctor once a year for your annual checkup as well.

Produces New Blood Cells

Produces New
Blood Cells

When you donate blood, new red blood cells are produced within a month or two. Red blood cells send oxygen from your lungs to your organs and tissues. Stimulating new cell production can improve health and help to maintain it.

It Can Improve Your Emotional State

It Can Improve
Your Emotional State

In several studies, volunteering has been proven to reduce stress, weight gain, and even disease. Donating blood can be an extremely positive experience for those giving back, because not only are they volunteering their time, they are helping to save lives.

If you live in New York City, on Long Island, or in Orange, Sullivan, or Westchester County and want more information about our health plans, please click here.

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This health information or program is for educational purposes only and not intended to treat, diagnose, or act as a substitute for medical advice from your provider. Consult your healthcare provider and always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.

Always consult your physician before beginning any exercise program.

Sources
“One more health benefit of blood donation,” National Institutes of Health. Accessed December 18, 2019.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27089416

“Altruism and the Volunteer,” American Society for Artificial Internal Organs. Accessed December 18, 2019.
https://journals.lww.com/asaiojournal/Fulltext/2001/01000/Altruism_and_the_Volunteer__Psychological_Benefits.2.aspx

“Donation of Blood Is Associated with Reduced Risk of Myocardial Infarction,” National Institutes of Health. Accessed December 18, 2019.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9737556