We expect most people are familiar with how donating blood works but are you aware of how blood donations affect your body?

The good news is that you’ll experience little pain and very few side effects, but there are many real positives for you. Several scientific studies suggest that donating blood can increase how long you live. Other benefits also include weight loss, enhanced cardiovascular health, decreased chance of cancer, and many more. Blood donation is a lifesaving gift and a beneficial procedure, for both recipient and donor. The immediate impact on the body as a result of donating a pint of blood is a loss of red blood cells. The average adult has approximately 10 pints, or 8% of body weight, and it takes a number of weeks to refill. In the short term, a minority of donors may experience light-headedness, fatigue, or nausea due to the iron and water loss related to the sudden absence of blood components, but this will quickly pass as stores are refilled. To minimize any adverse reactions, it is important to prepare for your blood donation by eating an iron-rich meal and drinking plenty of fluids. You will also want to replace fluids immediately after donating, and to keep the body well-nourished.

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According to the American Journal of Epidemiology, 88% of blood donors are less likely to suffer a heart attack. This may be partly because donating blood helps blood flow, giving it a lower viscosity (resistance) and thus making it less damaging to blood vessels. Blood donation also helps regulate iron levels in the body. Men tend to store more iron in their bodies than women, which is why iron deficiency is rare in men. Those who suffer from iron deficiency often find it difficult to donate, and may want to consider taking an oral iron supplement. For these individuals blood donation seldom helps regulate iron levels.