Planning to donate blood? Doctor shares complete guide to everything you need to know, from eligibility to precautions

Planning to donate blood? Doctor shares complete guide to everything you need to know, from eligibility to precautions

Planning to donate blood? Doctor shares complete guide to everything you need to know, from eligibility to precautions ByAdrija Dey Jun 13, 2025 08:09 PM IST Share Via Copy Link By being aware of the basics of blood donation, you can donate blood safely and help save lives when it matters most.

Blood donation is a noble act, as it can save multiple lives. But before going to the donation centre, you need to be well-informed about the essentials, who can donate, the key eligibility criteria, and the precautions to take before and after donation. Moreover, haemoglobin levels play a major role in determining eligibility, so if you intend to donate regularly, you may have to improve them through proper nutrition. On World Blood Donation Day, which is annually observed on June 14, let’s take a moment to know how you can safely and effectively contribute to this life-saving cause.

Be well-informed to know if you can be a blood donor.(Shutterstock)

Dr Shruti Kamdi, Consultant Lab Medicine Blood Transfusion, Narayana Health SRCC Children’s Hospital, Mumbai, shared with HT Lifestyle, a comprehensive guide, outlining all the key essentials, from blood donation precautions to nutrition tips to improve haemoglobin levels: 

Since maintaining healthy haemoglobin is a key requirement for blood donation, it's important to keep your levels in check. Check haemoglobin, serum ferritin, B12, and folate with a blood test every few months if you’re trying to correct a deficiency. Here are the foods:

Haemoglobin is made using iron, so include both heme and non-heme iron sources:

• Red meat (lean cuts), liver
• Chicken, turkey, fish

Non-heme iron:

• Spinach, kale, beetroot
• Lentils, beans, tofu
• Pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds
• Whole grains (quinoa, oats)

2. Pair Iron with Vitamin C

Vitamin C helps absorb non-heme iron better.

Tip: Add lemon juice to spinach or lentil dishes.
 

These are needed for red blood cell production.

• Dark leafy greens, avocado, broccoli, papaya, fortified cereals

Vitamin B12 sources:

• Eggs, milk, meat, fish, fortified cereals

4. Consider Supplements (if needed)

• Iron supplements: Only after consulting a doctor. Overuse can cause constipation or liver issues.
• Folic acid & B12: May be prescribed if you’re deficient.
• Vitamin C supplement: Can enhance iron absorption.

5. Avoid iron blockers around meals

Limit these to one-two hours of iron-rich meals: