January 22, 2026

The Gift of Giving: How Blood Donation Supports Heart and Vein Health

General, Healthy Living

January is National Blood Donor Month, a reminder of how important blood donation is and the difference donors make every day. According to the American Red Cross, every two seconds in the U.S., someone needs blood. Donating not only helps patients in need but also reminds us how important it is to keep our circulatory system healthy.

Healthy veins and strong circulation make blood donation possible. When your veins are working properly, blood flows smoothly through your body, delivering oxygen and nutrients that keep you energized and healthy. Taking care of your vein and heart health ensures that both you and others can benefit from safe blood donations.

If you plan to give blood this month, keep these tips in mind:

Stay hydrated

Drink plenty of water before and after your appointment.

Eat a balanced meal

Include iron-rich foods such as beans, spinach and lean meats.

Rest and recover

Give your body time to replenish fluids and nutrients after donating.

Even if you are unable to donate, you can still support your health this month by focusing on your circulation and heart. Take walks, eat nutritious meals and schedule regular checkups to make sure your veins are functioning properly.

Give the gift of health to yourself and others. Learn more about vein screenings and healthy circulation at VeinCenterAtIowaHeart.com.

Am I a Candidate?

Determine if you are at risk for developing or already have symptoms for venous disease.

Healthy Leg Tips

Walk

The Surgeon General recommends the 10,000 steps a day program to maintain a healthy weight.

Avoid sitting all day

Long periods of sitting, whether at the office, in a car or on a plane can lead to deep venous thrombosis or blood clots.

Eat right

Maintaining a healthy weight limits stress on your legs and promotes general wellness.

Stock up on lotion

Moisturize your skin twice a day to maintain its elasticity and help support cell walls, which in turn can prevent varicose veins.

Take showers

Exposure to prolonged or excessive heat during long, hot baths can dilate blood vessels, which decreases the return of blood from the legs to the heart and may result in varicose vein formation.

Elevate your legs

When reading or watching television, prop up legs parallel to the ground by resting them on a stool or a chair.

Don't smoke!

Smoking increases the risk of damage to vein walls and may result in varicose veins, leg ulcers and osteoporosis.