Information for Young Blood Donors

Your body loses iron during blood donations. Low iron, also known as iron deficiency, may lead to health problems, such as anemia, if left untreated. Healthy iron levels are important for your overall health and help to maintain strength and energy.

Replenishing iron levels after donating is especially important in younger donors, as your body is still growing. Eating a nutritious, well-balanced diet with foods rich in iron and high in vitamin C can help. But, recent research has shown that diet alone may not be enough. Taking a multivitamin with 18 mg of iron for 60 days after each blood donation, or for 120 days after each power red donation, will help replenish your iron levels. Before making changes to your health routine or adding a multivitamin with iron, we recommend you consult with your health-care provider.