High Protein Foods

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From Medical News Today

High protein foods for weight loss include:

1. Black beans

Black beans are often an inexpensive source of protein. Black beans can be prepared in a variety of ways, making them a very versatile ingredient when preparing meals.

2. Lima beans

Some Lima beans offer about 21 grams (g) of protein per 100 g serving.

3. Corn

Yellow corn has about 15.6 g of protein per cup. Additionally, corn also contains a good amount of fiber and minerals, including calcium.

4. Salmon

Salmon is considered a fatty fish, meaning it is full of omega-3 fatty acids. Salmon is also an excellent source of protein and can help a person feel more satisfied at meals. Salmon may not be as budget-friendly as some other protein options.

5. Potatoes

Potatoes have a reputation as a starchy carb but are good sources of nutrients, including protein. One medium potato with the skin on contains just over 4 gTrusted Source of protein. People should use caution when preparing a potato as the extras that people often put on potatoes can increase the calorie count.

6. Broccoli

One cup of raw broccoli has almost 2.6 g of protein and contains a variety of nutrients such as folate and potassium. This powerhouse veggie only has 31 calories per cup.

7. Cauliflower

Cauliflower has a lot of protein with very few calories. One cup of chopped cauliflower has 27 calories and 2 g of protein.

8. Chinese cabbage

Also known as bok choy, this vegetable gets much of its calories from protein and is full of antioxidants.

9. Eggs

Eggs are an excellent source of protein, nutrients, and healthful fats. A variety of studies have shown that eggs can help people feel more satisfied and stop them overeating. For example, one study found that a group of women who ate eggs instead of bagels for breakfast felt fuller for longer and ate fewer calories throughout the day.

10. Beef

Beef offers high amounts of protein per serving. There is a range of different types of beef to choose from for weight loss. People following a moderate carbohydrate diet should eat lean beef whereas a person on a low-carb diet may eat fattier beef.

11. Chicken breast

Chicken breast is a lean source of protein. The majority of its calories come directly from protein when served without skin. A 136 g skinless chicken breast provides around 26 gTrusted Source of protein.

12. Oats

Oats offer about 17 g of protein per 100g. They are also a source of complex carbohydrates. Raw oats are easy to prepare as oatmeal and people can flavor them with a variety healthful foods, such as fruits and nuts. People should avoid prepared oatmeals as they often contain added sugar.

13. Tuna

Tuna is an excellent and widely available source of protein that also has a low calorie count. Tuna is a lean fish with minimal fat. Add tuna to salads, sandwiches, and snacks. Be careful with additional dressings, such as mayonnaise, as these can add additional, unwanted calories.

14. Tempeh

Tempeh is a popular source of protein for vegetarians and vegans.

Tempeh comes from soybeans, like tofu. However, it has a higher protein count than tofu, offering about 17 g per half cup. Tempeh may not be easy to find, but some grocery stores carry it in the refrigerated vegetarian section.

15. Spirulina

Spirulina is a bacteria that grows in both fresh and salt waters. It offers a variety of nutrients and protein from a small amount of its powdered form.

16. Legumes

Legumes are both high in fiber and protein. This makes them a good choice as part of a weight loss diet because they can be quite filling. Some people may have trouble digesting legumes, however.

17. Hemp seeds

People can use hemp seeds in salads as a substitute for croutons. Hemp seeds offer about 9.5 g of protein per tablespoon. They are fairly easy to find in most grocery stores but can be expensive.

18. Sun-dried tomatoes

Sun-dried tomatoes are an excellent addition to many dishes and are widely available. They offer both a good source of protein, as well as additional nutrients and fiber.

19. Guava

Guava is a tropical fruit that may not be available everywhere. Guava is one of the most protein-rich fruits available. It also offers additional nutrients, such as vitamin C.

20. Artichokes

Artichokes are high in fiber and offer a good amount of protein. Artichokes are very versatile and are suitable for use in a variety of recipes. Artichokes are typically easy to find in most grocery stores.

21. Peas

Peas are high in protein, fiber, and other nutrients. Peas are inexpensive, easy to find, and can be used in lots of recipes.

22. Bison

Bison meat is another excellent source of protein. Bison is lean meat, offering less fat per serving than beef. Bison is becoming more available, and some people use it as a substitute for beef.

23. Pork

Lean pork is a good source of protein. Pork roasts and tenderloin are good choices for meals. People should avoid processed pork products such as bacon.

24. Turkey

Turkey packs a powerful punch of protein. Boneless turkey can provide about 13 gTrusted Source of protein per 100 g.

25. Chickpeas

Chickpeas are a healthful vegetarian protein that is high in fiber, and full of nutrients that support heart and bone health. They also ward off cancer.

26. Quinoa

Quinoa is one of the only complete sources of vegetarian protein. Quinoa contains all 11 amino acids needed to make a protein complete, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians, vegans, and those who do not eat a lot of meat.

27. Greek yogurt

Plain, low-fat Greek yogurt packs as much as 19 gTrusted Source of protein in a 200g pot. People looking to lose weight should limit or avoid Greek yogurt that contains added sugar. People should opt for the plain versions instead and jazz it up with some fruit or seeds.

28. Cottage cheese

This dairy product has an abundance of protein. It also offers a healthful serving of calcium and other nutrients.

29. Almonds

Nuts have a reputation for being high calorie but with a little bit of portion control, dry roasted or raw almonds can make for a filling, protein-rich snack.

30. Milk

Cow’s milk is an excellent source of protein for people that can tolerate drinking milk. An 8 ounce serving of milk contains 8 g of protein.

31. Lentils

Lentils pack a hefty dose of plant protein and fiber. They are very affordable and may promote heart health.

32. Pumpkin seeds

Pumpkin seeds are full of protein and minerals, such as magnesium and selenium. People looking to lose weight should stay away from oil roasted pumpkin seeds and choose dry roasted seeds, instead.

33. Avocado

Avocados contain healthy fats, as well as protein.

Avocados not only contain protein and heart healthful unsaturated fat, but they also contain good levels of fiber and nutrients, such as potassium.

Portion control is necessary, however, since avocados are very calorie dense.

34. Pistachios

Pistachios are a reasonably low calorie nut that contain a big serving of protein.

One ounce of pistachios contains about 6 g of protein and a wealth of other nutrients including a high dose of B-6.

35. Chia seeds

This tiny seed packs more than 5 g of protein per ounce, along with omega-3s, fiber, and calcium. Vegans often use chia seeds as an egg substitute, and many people enjoy adding them to smoothies or salads for extra health benefits.

36. Nut butters

Nut butters, including peanut butter, contain a lot of calories, but a portion-controlled serving can add unsaturated fat and a dose of protein to a person’s diet. People wanting to eat nut butters healthily should stick to those with no added sugars or oils.

37. Halibut

This white fish is an excellent source of lean protein with nearly 30 g of protein in half a fillet.

38. Asparagus

Asparagus gets over one quarter of its calories from protein. It is also full of nutrients, including B vitamins and is low in carbohydrates.

39. Watercress

This cruciferous vegetable grows in water, has a surprisingly high protein content, and contains a full day’s worth of vitamin K. Adding some watercress to salads can really maximize its health benefits.

40. Brussel sprouts

Brussel sprouts are full of protein, fiber, and vitamins. A one cup serving contains almost 3 gTrusted Source of protein.

41. Spelt

Spelt is a type of hulled wheat that has a very high protein content. It has risen in popularity and is often available with the specialty flours.

42. Teff

Teff is a grass that is often ground down to make flour. This gluten-free food has a fairly high protein content with about 13 g of protein per 100 g serving.

43. Whey protein powder

Whey protein powder is used by many bodybuilders and athletes as a supplement to help increase muscle mass and strength. This powder is made from the proteins found in the liquid part of milk and can add a substantial amount of protein to a person’s diet.

It is essential for people to read the labels because whey proteins are often full of sugar.

Takeaway

There are many potential sources of protein people can choose from when trying to lose weight. Many protein sources offer additional nutrients that benefit overall health as well.

Medical Myths About Migraines

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From Medical News Today

Dr. Vernon Williams is a board-certified neurologist/sports neurologist and director of the Center for Sports Neurology and Pain Medicine at Cedars-Sinai Kerlan-Jobe Institute in Los Angeles, CA.

Dr. Medhat Mikhael is a pain management specialist and medical director of the non-operative program at the Spine Health Center at Memorial Care Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, CA.

Dr. Jennifer McVige, who is board-certified in pediatric neurology, adult and pediatric headache, and neuroimaging. She is the director of the Concussion Center at DENT Neurologic Institute, Amherst, NY.

1. Migraines aren’t serious

“Most types of migraine are not serious; however, they can be chronic and sometimes debilitating and disabling if not adequately treated,” explained Dr. Medhat Mikhael.

The authors of one review, which investigated the impact of migraine on quality of life, write that many people with migraine “also experience reduced productivity while at work and disruption of their family, social, and leisure activities.”

It is also worth noting that not all types of migraine are equal. “There is a kind of migraine called hemiplegic migraine that tends to be familial, associated with neurological symptoms, aura symptoms proceeding the migraine, and can lead to stroke,” Dr. Mikhael explained.

However, he is quick to point out that hemiplegic migraine that causes significant weakness or paralysis on one side of the body is rare, affecting around 0.01% of the population. In most cases, the paralysis resolves within hours or days; rarely, it can take 4 weeks. However, in some very rare cases, hemiplegic migraine can cause lasting paralysis.

2. Migraine is just a headache

This is not true, and it is worth noting that not all migraines involve a headache. As Dr. Jennifer McVige explained, “Migraine is actually a primary headache disorder and is much more than just a headache. In fact, headaches are only one symptom of migraine, and some migraines don’t have a headache at all.”

According to Dr. Vernon Williams, “a migraine is clinically defined as a specific type of headache that [a person feels] more intensely, and usually has accompanying symptoms in addition to the pain felt in the head.”

“The pain from a migraine can be very severe and interfere with activities of daily life. Like headaches, migraines can be brief, lasting only a few hours, or the pain can stick around for several days.”

According to Dr. Williams, a person with migraine rather than a headache will experience a combination of the following symptoms:

Moderate to severe pounding or throbbing pain that feels as if it engulfs the entire head or shifts from one side of the head to the other.

Heightened sensitivity to sounds, smells, or light.

Vision troubles, including blurriness, bright or flashing dots, or wavy or jagged lines.

Abdominal problems, which can include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, or an unsettled stomach.

Dr. Williams also outlined other differences between migraine and a headache. For example, he explained that some people might experience a so-called prodrome stage.

Dr. Williams said, “Patients might notice subtle changes in their daily routine up to a day or 2 before a migraine sets in — a sort of warning period.”

Although these changes vary between individuals, he said that a few of the most common prodromal signs are “excessive yawning, depression, irritability, and a stiff neck.”

Some people with migraine may also experience migraine aura. Dr. Williams said:

“Migraine aura is a neurological symptom that immediately precedes the headache. It may consist of visual disturbances (seeing flashing lights or experiencing partial loss of vision that gradually spreads across the visual field), or other sensory phenomena (numbness or tingling gradually spreading across the face or down the arm).”

Although the symptoms are an ominous sign that a migraine headache may be on the way, according to Dr. Williams, there is an upside:

“These warning signs provide an opportunity to initiate treatment very early in the course of the migraine episode, which significantly improves the likelihood that the treatment will be successful.”

Rather than waiting for the pain to come, Dr. Williams told us that taking the medication as soon as possible has the most effect.

3. Caffeine causes migraine

This is a myth; caffeine does not cause migraine, but it can be a trigger for some people. Coffee and migraine have a complex relationship.

As Dr. Mikhael told us, “Excessive use of caffeine can trigger migraine. However, caffeine, in general, can help alleviate headaches, including migraine headache.”

According to Dr. McVige, “some people find drinking caffeine at the onset of an attack lowers the intensity and can help alleviate some of the pain, but regular use of caffeine as a treatment is not advised.”

To add an extra level of complexity, Dr. McVige said that drinking caffeinated beverages can start a migraine attack, but that “caffeine withdrawal is an even more frequent migraine trigger.”

In a recent review of the interaction between caffeine and migraine, the authors concluded:

“Overall, based on our review of the current literature, there is insufficient evidence to recommend caffeine cessation to all migraine patients. However, it [is important to highlight] that caffeine overuse may lead to migraine chronification, and sudden caffeine withdrawal may trigger migraine attacks.”

4. Headache medicine will cure migraine

Currently, there is no cure for migraine, but medicines certainly can help.

“Cure is not the word, symptom control, and prevention of migraine is the more correct term,” Dr. Mikhael said, “Migraine medications [aim] toward prevention of migraine episodes and use of ‘abortive medications’ if an episode breaks through.”

5. No medicines can help migraine

Put bluntly, Dr. Mikhael said, “That is a false statement; several medications are available now to help and control migraine significantly.”

Dr. McVige listed some medications that can ease migraine, including over-the-counter (OTC) analgesics, triptans, calcitonin gene receptor peptide (CGRP) antagonists , gepants, antidepressant medicines, anti-seizure medicines, and beta-blockers.

Effective nonpharmaceutical options are also available.

“The most important thing anyone can do to help avoid migraine triggers is to regulate their lifestyle with healthy choices.”

– Dr. Williams

“Getting at least 8 hours of sleep each night, drinking 8 glasses of water per day, feeding your body with healthy nutrition, and eliminating as many sources of extra stress as possible, will put your body on the express path to raising the threshold of migraines. [This means] that your risk of developing a migraine is decreased, even when exposed to a known trigger.”

Dr. Williams also told us that following a healthy lifestyle may eventually “eliminate the need for taking prescription headache medications.”

This is good news because, as Dr. McVige explained to MNT, “Medications may also (ironically) lead to headaches themselves, in a phenomenon called ‘medication overuse headaches,’ if the rescue medication is being taken too often.”

Dr. Williams also explained that “there are lots of options for prescription medications that are very effective at reducing migraine frequency (so-called prophylactic medications) and others that can stop a migraine in its tracks. If you suspect that you experience migraine headaches, it is worth seeing a doctor who can confirm the diagnosis and work with you to develop a treatment plan.”

6. You cannot diagnose migraine without an imaging exam

According to Dr. Mikhael, this is a “false statement. Migraine is a clinical diagnosis and does not need any imaging to confirm. Imaging is only indicated if the symptoms are not clear or there are neurological symptoms or warning signs. This is when imaging would be warranted to rule out a pathology.”

“There’s no specific test to diagnose migraines,” said Dr. McVige, “[To make an accurate diagnosis], a doctor must identify a pattern of recurring headaches along with the associated symptoms continuing for at least 3 months.”

7. I cannot take any migraine medications if I am pregnant

“Migraine medications, such as triptans, are relatively safe during pregnancy, particularly after the first trimester,” said Dr. Mikhael, “acetaminophen is safe as well, but some of the preventive anti-seizure medications should be avoided due to the risk of” halting the pregnancy or producing a congenital malformation.

Adding more detail, Dr. McVige explained: “Before getting pregnant, it’s important for people to talk with their doctors about their migraine treatment plan, whether they take OTC, prescription medications, or both.”

“Not all medicines are safe during pregnancy,” she continued, “Some are strictly off-limits, while other medicines can be added back after the critical first trimester. Noninvasive wearable devices are particularly appealing to pregnant women as they have high efficacy with virtually no lasting side effects.”

8. If I follow a ‘migraine diet’ my migraine will never return

Although nowadays, there is a diet plan claimed to cure all ills, not all of them are effective or backed by evidence.

As for the so-called migraine diet, Dr. Mikhael is unconvinced. He explained that, although “eating healthily and avoiding certain kinds of food that trigger migraines can eliminate the triggering of the episodes,” there are other factors to take into account.

For instance, the migraine diet cannot address “lack of sleep, stress, or hormonal changes.”

In brief, avoiding known triggers can reduce the risk of migraine, but a diet regimen is not a cure.

When dealing with headaches or migraines, it can be hard to filter out the noise and navigate your inbox. Healthline gives you actionable advice from doctors that’s inclusive and rooted in medical expertise.

9. Supplements can cure migraine

Dr. Mikhael rebuffed this myth succinctly, explaining that this is “not an accurate statement or a fact; supplements can help migraine headache or prevent triggering of it, but they won’t cure it.”

As mentioned earlier, there is no cure for migraine, but certain supplements may help prevent migraine for some people. Dr. McVige said:

“Supplements, such as magnesium, vitamin D, and vitamin B2 are an important addition to the migraine treatment market, but no one vitamin or supplement has been proven to help prevent or relieve migraine for everyone. They help some people immensely and do little for others. This variable response is similar with pharmaceutical medications.“

10. Unless you experience aura, it is not a migraine

This is not true. In fact, according to Dr. Mikhael, “most migraines are without aura.”

According to the Migraine, 10–30% of people with migraine experience aura.

11. Researchers have given up investigating migraine

“That is totally false,” said Dr. Mikhael, “researchers never gave up and never will, […] there are several ongoing, important research efforts to address the pathophysiology of migraine and new treatment options.”

“Definitely not!” Dr. McVige responded with similar vigor, “There are […] innovations all the time in the migraine scene, especially over the past 4 years. Recently, neuromodulation devices have entered the market. A new device from Theranica called Nerivio now has [clearance from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)] for acute migraine treatment”.

“The device is smartphone-controlled and inconspicuously worn on the upper arm, delivering a 45-minute treatment.”

According to Dr. McVige, the device “modifies the pain signals in the brain and is a good alternative to medication.” She concludes:

“We are always finding ways to try and deliver the therapy without exposing people to negative side effects.”

Summary

Migraine can be unpleasant and significantly affect daily life. However, pharmaceutical interventions are available that can help. Also, changes in diet and lifestyle can ease symptoms and reduce the frequency of migraines.

As scientists continue to investigate, they are sure to identify better treatments and, perhaps one day, a cure.

Semaglutide Approved for Weight Loss

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Semaglutide targets brain areas that control appetite by mimicking a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). A gradual increase of 2.4 mg once weekly must be made over 16 to 20 weeks to reduce gastrointestinal side effects.

Semaglutide should not be combined with other products containing semaglutide, other GLP-1 receptor agonists, or other products intended to cause weight loss, including prescription medications, over-the-counter products, and herbal supplements. There have been no studies of semaglutide in patients with pancreatitis.

Four 68-week trials have been conducted to evaluate semaglutide’s efficacy and safety. Semaglutide was studied in three randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials (including 16 weeks of dose increases). One was a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized withdrawal trial in which patients continued to receive the drug or switched to a placebo. More than 2,600 patients received semaglutide for up to 68 weeks in these four studies, and more than 1,500 patients received a placebo.

Participants without diabetes constituted the largest placebo-controlled trial. The average age of the patients at the start of the study was 46 years, and 74% of them were female. The average weight of the participants was 231 pounds (105 kg), and the average body mass index was 38kg/m2. Compared to individuals who received a placebo, individuals who received semaglutide lost an average of 12.4% of their initial body weight. In another trial, participants with diabetes type 2 were recruited. The average age was 55 years, and 51% of the participants were female. Those studied had an average weight of 220 pounds (100 kg) and an average body mass index of 36kg/m2. According to the results of this study, individuals who took semaglutide lost 6.2% of their starting body weight.

Among the most common side effects of semaglutide are nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal (stomach) pain, headache, fatigue, dyspepsia (indigestion), dizziness, abdominal distension, eructation (belching), hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in patients with type 2 diabetes, flatulence (gas buildup), gastroenteritis (an intestinal infection) and gastroesophageal reflux disease (a type of digestive disorder).

Semaglutide comes with a boxed warning informing healthcare professionals about the potential risk of thyroid C-cell tumors. The drug cannot be prescribed to patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma, as well as patients with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). 

Patients with severe allergies to semaglutide or any other component of semaglutide should not use this medication. If a severe allergic reaction is suspected, patients should stop using semaglutide immediately and seek medical help. There are also warnings for inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis), gallbladder problems (including gallstones), low blood sugar, acute kidney injury, diabetic retinopathy (damage to the retina in the eye), and increased heart rate.

Any patient who experiences pancreatitis or gallstones should speak with their healthcare provider.

The Woodlands Compounding Pharmacy is working on a compounded version of semaglutide.

Dispelling Medical Myths Regarding Blood Donations

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Dispelling Myths about Blood Donations

From Medical News Today

1. Donating blood can make you sick

Anyone who is healthy before donating blood will not become less healthy afterward. Although doctors recommend that people rest for a day and drink fluids after donating, the health of these individuals is not in jeopardy.

Within an estimated 48 hours of donating, an individual’s blood volume returns to normal — predominantly through an increase in plasma. Within 4–8 weeks, the body will replace all of the lost red blood cells.

MNT spoke with Dr. Emanuel T. Ferro, Ph.D., a pathologist at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, CA, and director of the Blood Bank, Donor Center, and Transfusion Medicine at MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center in Long Beach, CA. He told us:

“Blood donation is extremely safe. The vast majority of blood donors are able to donate a pint of blood in less than 15 minutes after completing a health questionnaire and having a mini physical with a check on their blood count to make sure it’s safe to draw their blood. Donor reactions are rare.”

It is true that there might be some side effects, though. Dr. John Raimo, chair of medicine at Long Island Jewish Forest Hills in Queens, NY said:

“It is possible to feel tired or lightheaded afterward. These symptoms will go away on their own, but you may want to drink some water and have a small snack to help. You may also feel sore or have a bruise on your arm.”

Dr. Kenny said that “younger people and those who are of low body weight” are more likely to feel lightheaded, but that “can usually be prevented by drinking fluid before the donation.”

2. Older adults cannot give blood

This is not true. In the U.S., people who are older than 16 years and weigh more than 110 pounds (50 kilograms) can give blood.

It is worth noting, however, that the rules differ in some countries. For instance, in the United Kingdom, donors must be aged 17–66 years. However, people who have donated blood before can continue to provide blood until the age of 70.

Anyone who is older than 70 but has given blood in the previous 2 years is also still eligible to donate.

3. If someone is taking medication, they cannot donate

This is a partial myth. Individuals taking certain medications, including anticoagulants, antiplatelet medications, and some acne treatments, should not donate blood.

However, in most cases, medications do not mean that someone cannot donate blood.

Before donating, a person should speak with a medical professional to check whether their current medications affect their eligibility to be a donor. Just as importantly, if a doctor has prescribed a medication, people should not stop taking it to donate blood.

4. Giving blood is time consuming

Although registration and processing can take varying amounts of time, the procedure of donating blood only takes about 8–10 minutes. The American Red Cross explains that the “entire process takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.”

5. You might contract an infection if I give blood

Dr. Ferro explained why there is no risk of catching an infection when donating blood:

“We use a sterile technique to prepare your arm before we place the needle to draw your blood. Infections at the ‘draw’ site are almost unheard of. All of the needles we use are new, sterile, and only used once, so there is no chance of catching a bloodborne infection from donating blood.”

6. If I receive a transfusion, I might get an infection

Although not strictly related to blood donation, another common myth is that there is a high risk of infection when someone receives a blood transfusion. As Dr. Kenny explained.

“People can contract an infection from a blood transfusion if the blood is infected. [However,] this is very rare because the blood is rigorously screened for a number of viruses and bacteria. For instance, it is estimated the chance of contracting hepatitis C from a blood transfusion is about 1 in 100 million.”

7. Donating blood is painful

Again, this is a partial myth, as there is some pain as the needle goes in, but it is relatively mild and short-lived. Once the needle is in position, the donor should remain comfortable throughout.

Following blood donation, there may be some pain at the site of the needle’s entry. Some people experience bruising, but this is usually harmless and disappears in a matter of days.

8. You can only give blood once each year

This is not true. Once blood cells have replenished, which takes up to 8 weeks, it is safe to donate blood again. Due to this, the American Red Cross advises that people can give whole blood every 56 days.

9. People who have tattoos or piercings cannot donate

This is a long standing myth, but it is still a myth. The American Red Cross says to “[w]ait 3 months after a tattoo if the tattoo was applied in a state that does not regulate tattoo facilities.”

Similarly, it explains that giving blood after a piercing is “[a]cceptable as long as the instruments used were single-use equipment and disposable (which means both the gun and the earring cassette were disposable).” However, it asks potential donors to wait “3 months if a piercing was performed using a reusable gun or any reusable instrument.”

10. You cannot donate if you have high blood pressure

This is not always true. As long as someone has systolic blood pressure lower than 180 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and diastolic blood pressure lower than 100 mm Hg, they can donate blood.

Although certain medications mean that it is not possible to give blood, drugs for high blood pressure do not make someone ineligible to be a donor.

11. You cannot donate if you have high cholesterol

This is untrue — neither high blood cholesterol levels nor cholesterol-lowering drugs disqualify someone from donating blood.

12. Vegetarians and vegans can never donate blood

This is another myth. As Dr. Ferro explained. “These individuals “can [donate] as long as they meet all of the health screening requirements to donate blood. Some vegetarians/vegans do not ingest adequate iron and may be borderline anemic. However, we screen each donor for anemia, and potential donors [with this condition] are not allowed to donate.”

13. Enough people already donate blood

Sadly, this is not true. As blood has a limited shelf life, maintaining adequate supplies is an ongoing challenge. As Dr. Raimo explained, “Donated red blood cells must be used within 42 days. Donated platelets must be used within 5 days. Because of this, donated blood needs to be replenished constantly, and we are always looking for more volunteers to donate.”

Dr. Ferro also underlined the importance of blood donation:

“There is always a need for more blood donors. […] The number of qualified blood donors is smaller than most people think. Each donor is carefully screened for the presence of infectious diseases and other conditions that might make their blood unsuitable to give to other people. A constant supply of qualified donors is needed to meet patient needs.”

Dr. Kenny reiterated this message, explaining that “only about one-third of the U.S. population is eligible to donate blood, [and] only about 3% of these potential donors give blood on a regular basis. […] Many patients require a specific type of blood. Blood banks can sometimes have adequate supplies of one blood type and, at the same time, have a critical shortage of another type.”