Unusual Benefits Of Giving Blood

Sunday, June 11, 2017

It's World Blood Donor Day on the 14th June. Blood transfusions are crucial around the world for saving lives, however alot of patients in need of blood transfusions don't always have access to them in time. While there are huge benefits to the recipient of the blood transfusion, there are also some unexpected benefits of giving blood too. Here we take a look at the other advantages to donating blood:

1. Balanced iron levels

Studies have shown that high levels of iron in the bloodstream may be one of the causes of cancer. For this reason, some believe that by donating blood frequently, the iron levels in the body are balanced and thus reduce the risk.

Similarly, it is believe that giving blood benefits the heart and liver too, as it reduces the risk of any health problems caused by an excess of iron.

2. New blood cells

When you donate blood, your body needs to replenish what it has lost. While your body works to restore the blood, it is stimulating new blood cells which contribute to overall positive health.

3. Better blood flow

It is believed that giving blood actually increases blood flow around the body. Due to many factors, such as diet or lack of exercise, blood flow can slow down in the body which can cause blood clots and other cardiovascular health implications. Giving blood is believed to give this blood flow a boost again.

4. Health check

Before you give blood, you have to have some small health checks to ensure that you are suitable to donate. These health checks will allow you to be informed of any infections or abnormalities your blood might have, that you might otherwise might not have been alerted to.

5. It burns calories

Some research suggests that donating blood actually burns calories too! It makes sense, as when you're donating blood you lose about a pint of blood (which is approximately a pound in weight terms). Of course, this will quickly go back on, but it is believed that you could burn up to 650 calories during the blood donation process.

Find out more about blood donation, and what World Blood Donor day is all about here.