You’ve done the amazing part! Now, it’s time for a little self-care. Treat your body with the gentle, elegant care you’d give a delicate orchid. Here are our top tips for after you donate.
Congratulations on your life-saving donation! Just as an orchid needs specific care to thrive after it blooms, your body deserves a little extra TLC. Follow these simple steps to ensure a smooth and quick recovery.
Drink plenty of water and fluids over the next 24-48 hours. This helps replenish the fluids lost during your donation, keeping your system in balance.
Have a good meal after you donate. Focus on iron-rich foods (like lean red meat, spinach, and beans) and Vitamin C (like oranges and tomatoes) to help your body rebuild its red blood cells.
Give yourself permission to relax for the rest of the day. Avoid heavy lifting or vigorous exercise with the donation arm for about 5 hours. Be elegant and deliberate in your movements, like an orchid in a gentle breeze.
Keep the strip bandage on for a few hours to avoid irritation. If you notice any bleeding, elevate your arm and apply pressure.
Listen to Your Body
If you feel lightheaded, sit or lie down until you feel better. This is your body’s way of asking for a moment of rest.
