World Blood Donor Day: Tips to keep in mind before and after donating blood

June 14 has been celebrated as World Blood Donor Day since 2004. It is a day which is to raise awareness for the necessity of blood donation, while also a day which celebrates blood donors who have helped save countless lives. On this day, you can choose to become a blood donor and help move this cause forward. However, before and after donating, here are some tips you can follow to maintain your own health.

You should drink extra water or other non-alcoholic drinks before donating blood. Ideally, it should be around 16 oz. of extra water from your normal consumption. (Source: Pexels)

You should have a healthy meal before donating blood. Make sure to avoid fatty or junk food. Ensure to eat green vegetables, fresh fruits, and other healthy ingredients in your meal before going to donate blood. (Source: Pexels)

Make sure to wear a shirt or blouse that allows you to roll the sleeves up. This might seem obvious but keep this in your -what-to-do-before-blood-donation checklist for sure.(Source: Pexels)

Another important thing to remember before donating blood is to relax. Do not get anxious, or scared, or tensed. Listen to music, lie down, read a book, or talk to a friend while the process of blood donation begins. (Source: Pexels)

Post blood donation, if your needle site begins to bleed (it is normal, don't panic), just simply straighten your arm, and press the point for 5-10 minutes within which it will stop bleeding. If by any chance it does not stop bleeding, consult a medical expert. (Source: Pexels)

Avoid doing any heavy lifting or heavy exercises for the rest of the day, or ideally for the next 24 hours. Your body needs time to recover and working out might not be the best idea. (Source: Pexels)

Intake of iron-rich food for after donating blood is crucial. Make sure to include eggs, nuts, dried fruit, oats green leafy vegetables and other food that is rich in iron in each of your meals. (Source: Pexels)

Do not remove the bandage strip for the next few hours. You can use soap and water to clean the area around the bandage in order to avoid skin rashes. (Source: Pexels)

Finally, feeling dizzy or lightheaded after donating blood is normal. Therefore, when you experience it, don't get tense and instead quickly sit down or lie down somewhere. For the next 24 hours, try avoiding any activity as putting too much pressure on the body after blood loss might lead to fainting which in turn can cause injuries. (Source: Pexels)