DETROIT (Dec. 1, 2022) – As people look to schedule a year-end blood donation, the American Red Cross Michigan Region wants to remind seasoned donors and first-timers about the importance of hydrating and eating well before giving blood.

Water helps the circulation of your blood so when you’re hydrated, you’re less likely to feel light-headed during the donation process, said Josh Keeney, team supervision for Blood Services at the Red Cross. A health screening is conducted prior to donation to ensure the donor is healthy enough to donate. This includes checking the donor’s blood pressure and hemoglobin levels. Appointments are rescheduled for those who are not feeling well at the time of donation.

“Donating blood is truly a selfless act and it can make a significant impact on those who need it,” Keeney said. “We encourage all donors to be mindful of these donation tips to ensure they are well to donate.”

These tips include:

• Drinking extra water. Ample water before an appointment helps hydrates body tissue, increases the volume of blood, and makes veins easier to find. Drink an extra 16 oz. of water before your appointment. Avoid alcohol.
• Eating healthy. Eating iron-rich foods like fish and poultry in the days before your appointment helps ensure you are healthy enough to give blood. Avoid fatty foods like ice cream, hamburgers, and fries.
• Rest and relaxation. Get a good night's sleep before your donation. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise afterward.

People of all blood types are needed, especially platelet donors and those with type O blood – blood products that are critical to keeping hospitals ready to help patients depending on transfusions in the weeks ahead.

Book now by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). As a thank-you for taking the time to give this fall, all who come to give Nov.1-22 will receive a $10 e-gift card by email to a merchant of choice. Details are available at rcblood.org/perks.

How to Donate Blood

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also must meet certain height and weight requirements.

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MEDIA CONTACT: Alicia Dorr / alicia.dorr@redcross.org / 616-306-8040

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.