Part of the challenge donation centers face in addition to fewer people showing up at the donation centers' blood drives, is the fact that some of the blood donors do not meet the minimum required standards to give blood. In addition to meeting the age, weight and health requirements, donors' hemoglobin levels must be at least 12.5 grams per deciliter (g/dL). Anyone with a hemoglobin count of 12.4 or lower may not donate blood.
All is not lost, however for individuals with a low hemoglobin count. With a few dietary alterations, it is possible to increase the hemoglobin count to the minimum acceptable standards in a matter of weeks.
Here are a few dietary changes that one can implement to increase the hemoglobin count to meet the 12.5 g/dL minimum requirement.
Rule out Serious Medical Conditions
Before starting a new eating program, one should schedule a visit to the doctor. The doctor will be able to determine whether or not the low iron count is solely the result of poor dietary habits or a symptom of something more serious. After receiving the green light from the doctor, it's time to make a few dietary changes.
Foods to Increase Iron Level
Consume iron rich foods such as clams, oysters, lean beef and beans. All of these foods have differing degrees of iron that help to boost the bloods iron levels. For a more extensive list of iron building foods, visit Health Castle.com.
Supplements to Boost Hemoglobin Count
Another way to boost hemoglobin levels is to take iron supplements. Do a little research, however, prior to purchasing iron supplements. In some people, certain iron tablets cause stomach upset and constipation. If that is the case, look for slow release iron supplements. Since slow release iron tablets enter the system at a slower rate, the chance of stomach upset and constipation is reduced.
Whether eating iron rich foods or taking supplements, blood donors can boost their body's iron absorption ability by consuming the iron rich foods with either a vitamin C tablet or foods rich in Vitamin C.
Foods that Hinder or Block Iron Absorption
Avoid foods that block the body's ability to absorb iron. Coffee, tea, milk and fiber are known slow down and sometimes block the body's ability to absorb iron. Therefore, do not consume iron rich foods at the same time as iron blocking foods. Allow several hours to elapse between eating an iron blocking food and an iron rich food.
After successfully increasing the hemoglobin levels to a minimum of 12.5 g/dL, donors should contact the American Red Cross visiting their website or call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE for information on local blood drives.
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