Blood donations and Atkins

[MaryAnnDVC]

I donated blood about a month ago and had a terrible time...felt REALLY faint and nauseous towards the end. I was (and am) doing Atkins at the time, but in the past (when I wasn't doing Atkins) I never had any problem with donating blood. Do you think it was Atkins-related?

Also...after donating, they give you cookies/crackers/juice. Yikes! I ate it, because I definitely needed something (I felt sick for the rest of the day). But...what WOULD be good to eat afterwards while still sticking to Atkins? Or is "doing Atkins" not a good time to be donating blood?? I'm sure they'll be calling me in a few weeks to go back, and I DO NOT want to go through that ordeal again, but I think it's important to be donating blood these days.

 

[nativetxn]

A low carb bar would have probably have helped. I don't know if your faintness was caused by your diet or not.


There are also low carb muffins and such that would probably have helped.

Hope you are feeling better.

 

[believe]

The first 2 times I gave blood, these times were 1 yr apart, I had the same experience. I am not doing Atkins, but I can tell you what took away those 'symptoms'. I have to request that they take slightly less blood and lean me all the way back. If the van or room is hot I need them to have a fan blowing on me. By telling them my symptoms and what I need I am able to give blood without nausea or feeling light headed/dizzy. They are surprised that I am still willing to give blood, but as long as they are willing to help me not have the symptoms I will be there.

I hope this helps!

 

[MaryAnnDVC]

Thanks Kath...great suggestion...I'll have to take a muffin with me next time.

believe, I had to laugh at how surprised they are that you come back...I left there last time thinking "never again!" But I would like to continue doing it. I'll mention to them next time about my prior experience, and I've taken note of your suggestions. Thanks!