PREPARING TO DONATE BLOOD By Dennis T Wang

Introduction Dennis T. Wang is one of the leaders for the international

fashion company Alexander Wang, Inc., as its Co-Founder and Chief Principal Officer. In his personal time, Dennis T. Wang enjoys volunteering with the American Red Cross.

Before giving blood, a donor should make sure that he or she is in good health. Donors must be feeling well and free of all active infections. They should check the Red Cross website for information about specific health conditions and whether those conditions render a person ineligible. Healthy donors should take care to maintain that health by eating well and getting sufficient rest before the donation event.

Preparing to Donate Blood The American Red Cross also recommends that

donors take care to eat an iron-rich diet before donating, as successful donation requires healthy blood iron levels. Recommended foods include fish, spinach, fortified cereals, and raisins. Donors should avoid fatty foods before giving blood, as excess blood fat levels can render required tests invalid and make the blood unusable. Drinking 16 ounces of water or other non-alcoholic beverages beforehand helps the donor to have a healthy donating experience, as does a nutritious meal.