Why Everyone Should Be a Blood Donor
The truth is, donating blood isn't all that exciting, the needle can sting a little, and the process can be time consuming. However, the benefits that are received from becoming a blood donor easily outweigh the negative aspects involved.
Benefit #1: Donating blood saves lives
Every time someone donates blood they have the possibility to save up to three lives! That's pretty amazing and yet only 3% of people able to donate blood actually do so. What's also amazing is that people don't seem to realize that they themselves may one day need the help of a blood donor.
Benefit #2: Donating blood may reduce the risk of heart disease
A study conducted at the University of Florida showed that when donating blood the iron subsequently removed can reduce the risk of heart disease. This is because iron has been shown to speed up the oxidation of cholesterol, a process thought to increase the damage to arteries that ultimately leads to cardiovascular disease. By lowering iron levels, cholesterol oxidizes at a slower rate.
Benefit #3: Donating blood helps to connect you with your community
Donating blood will help you establish a sense of ownership and commitment to the community you live in. By giving back to your community you will be ensuring that blood is available for those who need it.
Benefit #4: Donating blood provides a free mini health exam
Blood donors must get their temperature and blood pressure taken, and iron level checked in order to donate blood. These statistics may provide the donor with valuable information in regards to his or her own health. Also, the donor can find out what blood type he or she has which could be beneficial to them in the future.
Benefit #5: Donating blood detoxifies the blood and generates new blood
When you donate blood you're subsequently getting rid of whatever toxins are currently in your bloodstream. Your body will have to generate new blood, and you'll also lose one pound. The weight loss benefit may not be the best advise to get people to donate blood, but in the end, if it's gets more people to donate then it's worth making note of.
Knowing that you have the power to give someone the gift of life is pretty awesome. So why don't you just sit back, grab a cookie and some juice, and think about what a good person you are, I bet you won't feel a thing.
Published by E.A. Gunn
Twenty something professional working in sports. Overworked and underpaid, but believing in what I'm trying to accomplish keeps me going. View profile
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