It's not every day that you get the chance to perform something easy that might save someone's life. But this happens every time you donate blood. Each blood donation has the potential to save or improve the lives of at least three individuals.

Over the last several years, physician scientists have created fantastic, unique treatments, yet donated blood products continue to supply proteins and coagulation factors that are distinct from anything generated in a lab or developed in a pharmacy. These blood products continue to be life-saving and life-changing. There is no gray area here: blood products save lives.

Blood donation is done largely to save lives. According to the Mayo Clinic Health System, every blood donation can help save or enhance the lives of at least three individuals. Blood is in continual demand since it can only be kept for a short period. Furthermore, blood donation requires a sufficient number of healthy (and willing) persons to ensure that blood is supplied whenever and wherever it is required.


According to the American Red Cross, 6.8 million individuals donate blood in the United States, and the Red Cross supplies approximately 40% of the nation's blood and blood cell components to donors. Many people donate blood on a regular basis, while others donate when there is a local or national need.


But can diabetics really donate blood?

YES! However, in most states, you must be in excellent health, weigh at least 110 pounds, and be at least 16 years old. Also, at least several days before donating, make sure your blood sugar levels are within your goal range. So, sure, donors with diabetes who use any type of insulin besides Bovine insulin and Warfarin can donate as long as their diabetes is under control.


Bovine insulin and warfarin are not permitted because:


Bovine insulin (produced from cows) is a possible carrier of Mad Cow Disease. Even if you haven't used bovine insulin in years or decades, you will be ineligible to donate.

Warfarin is a blood thinner that is commonly used to treat excessive cholesterol, but it can also assist reduce blood sugar levels. Donating blood while on a blood thinner is neither safe nor permitted.

Keep in mind that, in comparison to those who do not have diabetes, health care experts may prescribe a longer amount of time between donations for diabetes patients.


Does blood donating affect your A1C?

Donating blood actually stimulates red blood cell synthesis, which might result in a falsely lower A1c test months later.

Your A1c represents the quantity of glucose bound to your red blood cells.

A red blood cell has a usual lifetime of three to four months. When you donate blood, you speed up the generation of new blood cells, which means your A1c is measuring the amount of glucose connected to younger cells.

This isn't to say you shouldn't donate blood on a regular basis. However, take in mind that your real A1c may be greater than your readings indicate.


What to do once you've donated blood:

Following the donation, you should continue to check your blood sugar levels and eat a nutritious diet. Consider eating iron-rich meals or taking an iron supplement for 2 to 4 weeks after your donation.

Other general tips:

  • If your arm hurts, use acetaminophen.
  • To avoid bruising, keep your bandage on for at least 4 hours.
  • If you feel dizzy, take a break.
  • For the next 24 hours, avoid intense activities. This covers physical activity as well as other responsibilities.
  • Increase your fluid consumption for a few days after your donation.

If you feel ill or are worried about your health after donating blood, see your doctor right once.


Visit the Red Cross website for additional information about blood donation.