When you donate blood, you are helping up to three people in need with just one donation. But have you ever wondered how donating blood affects you, the donor?

Your body does some pretty amazing things to help restore your blood after donating. Not to mention, there are plenty of long-term benefits to donating as well.

Why Is Donating Blood Important?

Millions of people need blood donations every year. There is no substitute for blood. The only source for patients in need of a lifesaving blood transfusion is from generous blood donors. Attending a blood drive or visiting a blood center near you helps ensure a steady blood supply.

What Happens to Your Body When You Donate Blood?

When you donate whole blood, you’re giving away one pint of blood containing red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma. One pint is a safe amount as adults generally have around 10-12 pints of blood circulating in their bodies.

After you’ve donated, your body begins making new red blood cells to replace the ones you gave away. It also starts replacing the fluids you lost almost immediately. You won’t feel any of this happening, but your body is hard at work.

It’s important to rest, eat well, and drink plenty of water before and after donating. This will help in case you experience light-headedness, fatigue, or nausea because of the sudden loss of blood. You should also add iron-rich foods to your diet. Iron helps the body make new red blood cells and can help replace those lost after blood donations.

Within the coming weeks, your blood cell count will be back to normal. This is why donors must wait 56 days between whole blood donations. Then, you’re ready to donate and save lives all over again!

What Are the Benefits of Donating Blood?

Donating blood has long-term health benefits for donors. Studies show that people who donate regularly experience a lower risk of heart attacks and depression. It also helps regulate iron for those with high levels.

Plus, people who regularly donate blood near them report feeling more connected to their communities. Donating blood is an easy way to help others in need, and that’s always a reason to feel good!

As you can see, giving blood benefits not only the recipient but the donor too. It can be a meaningful reminder of your body’s resilience and the lifesaving gift you’re able to give others. So, if you’re eligible, schedule your blood donation appointment at a blood center or blood drive near you and start saving lives today!

OneBlood is an innovative blood center serving communities across the Southeast, including the Carolinas. With multiple donor centers and blood drives near you, it’s easy to donate blood and make a difference.

OneBlood has six Donor Centers in North Carolina. Whether you're in Charlotte, Concord, Greensboro, Gastonia, Hickory, or in Ballantyne visiting the Isabella Santos Donor Center, named in partnership with the Isabella Santos Foundation, donate blood near you and share your power to save lives!