Group: General Diet & Nutrition

Created: 2011/12/31, Members: 399, Messages: 16719

With such a topic so broad we truly try to cover the basics from all angles in this group. Nothing too big or too small. Nutrition is as significant if not more as exercise is to reaching your goals so learn all you can.

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Blood Donation

yadmit
yadmit
Posts: 4,670
Joined: 2003/10/05
Canada
2003/11/18, 12:28 PM
Yesterday was the first time I ever gave blood... interesting experience and I will likely do it again, despite almost passing out last night during the proces...

Just wondering if anyone has any suggestions to not let it happen again... I drank about a gallon or gallon and a half of water through the day... ate fairly well... wasn't hungry when I got there, but I was tired.. didn't sleep well the night before... plus, I was somewhat nervous... (first time donating!!)

Also, even though I feel physically fine, I understand it's a good idea to not do any weight training for a couple of days.. is there anything I can do exercise-wise?

Thanks... and if you ever want a great feeling of reward, donate blood!!!

Tim

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"I count him braver who overcomes his desires than him who conquers his enemies, for the hardest victory is over self."

Aristotle
rev8ball
rev8ball
Posts: 3,081
Joined: 2001/12/27
United States
2003/11/18, 01:24 PM
Donating blood is a great thing to do, but can really take a tax on ya; even worse, do a plama donation - UGH!

You were right: drink your water, eat really well, especially after donating (replenish that glucose!), and, yes, get your sleep. Don't do any type of training for about a week following your donation. If you don't, you will just end up hurting your body and its progress. You need to give your body a chance to replace and rebuild the blood lost.

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Michael

Trample the weak; hurdle the dead!
Chaos, Panic, Disorder.... Yes, my work here is done!
cobra93
cobra93
Posts: 131
Joined: 2003/10/20
United States
2003/11/18, 02:43 PM
I'm usually excluded from giving blood (too many recent piercings and such). Aside from that, if any of you live in Southwestern AZ, the Red Cross is in desperate need of Type O- blood. They are completely out! Just a little info for those of you who are willing and able to donate!
agamble
agamble
Posts: 1,029
Joined: 2003/09/22
United States
2003/11/18, 02:48 PM
rev is correct about the rest and you pretty much covered your bases prior to donating. Be sure to get some sugar post donation. Orange juice, figs, cookies. I've donated many times and usually have no problems. However, there will be times when the process places more stress on your system. Could be stress, weakness in your immune system, and yes lack of proper rest prior. Chances are you won't have trouble next time. Oh-by the way, Congratulations on your first time to give. I'm sure you are aware of the importance of your donation.
yadmit
yadmit
Posts: 4,670
Joined: 2003/10/05
Canada
2003/11/18, 02:51 PM
While I felt a little drained during (ha ha) I felt good by the time I got home. But I have never felt as rewarded in my life before. I said to my wife, the half second of stabbing pain in my arm and the slight nausea and wooziness was minor compared to someone who really needs my half litre. Well worth the donation.

Tim

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"I count him braver who overcomes his desires than him who conquers his enemies, for the hardest victory is over self."

Aristotle
cobra93
cobra93
Posts: 131
Joined: 2003/10/20
United States
2003/11/18, 03:42 PM
Okay I'm a dork. Southeastern Az.......For all you O Negative blood donors!
Carivan
Carivan
Posts: 8,542
Joined: 2002/01/20
Canada
2003/11/18, 08:34 PM
Go with what Michael said. I donate and then take 7 days off. And the bonus to it all...you come back even stronger. Don't forget the vitamins.

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"A will finds a way"
Ivan Montreal Canada