I had read that donating blood could lower BP since your body's had the same blood for years and this will help create new blood which won't be as thick. Blood viscosity increases with age. I wondered if this was contributing to my high BP. The last time I tried donating blood, I was too light, right at the minimum weight requirement (110 lbs) so they wouldn't let me give blood. Had been gaining a few pounds lately, some days I'm 117 lbs, 112 on my low days. So with clothes and shoes on, I'd be a safe 115 lbs. So yesterday I went down to the Lifestream La Quinta Blood Bank since they are open 7 days. My other concerns besides the weight was my high BP, it has to be lower than 180/100 and my iron count had to be high enough. Had red wine and chocolate the night before, apparently they are iron-blockers.
Got to the blood bank, they didn't even weigh me, just took my word for it. My iron count was good, but my BP was 175/105. Both numbers have to be under the guideline. I sit around for 30 min and they take my reading again. 150/100. They ask if I feel ok to donate. Yes, (didn't want to waste the trip.)
Blood draw was pretty quick, about 15-20 minutes, and then 15 min rest before I could leave. A little light headed after that for maybe 30 min, then felt fine. My lowest BP that night was 124/79! Wow, it worked?! I'm not sure how long it would last tho. Didn't take my meds today. My lowest reading today was 125/85. My heart rates had been high tho: 86, 97, 87, 98, 90. Will continue to try to get my oatmeal, flaxseeds, nuts, fruit/veggies in when I can. I think I'll donate again when there's an opportunity. I am hopeful this will help lower my BP. Fingers crossed.
