Thinking of donating blood for the first time? We have a couple of tips that will prepare you for your lifesaving appointment.
- Please review our FAQ and Eligibility pages for common deferral issues and questions before donating.
- Bring a photo ID with you to your appointment.
- Eat a meal high in iron before you donate. Stay away from fatty foods before the day before your donation.
- Hydrate well before your appointment. Try to drink an extra 16 ounces of water before you come in.
- Get plenty of rest the night before.
- Wear a shirt with sleeves you can pull over your elbow.
- Bring a book, tablet, music, and headphones to listen to. This is a great time to catch up on some reading, listen to your favorite music or catch up on a movie you have been wanting to see.
- Ask your phlebotomist any question you have before, during, and after your donation.
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Here are some examples of some excellent food choices that will pump up the iron level in your blood before donating.
