Plasma Donation Iron Levels Guide

Iron and Plasma Donation

Your iron levels (measured as hematocrit or hemoglobin) are checked at every plasma donation. Low iron is one of the most common reasons donors are deferred.

Why Iron Matters

• Red blood cells: Iron is essential for healthy red blood cells
• Plasma contains some: You lose a small amount with each donation
• Safety: Centers check to ensure donation is safe for you

Iron Requirements for Donation

Hematocrit Levels

Hemoglobin Levels

What These Numbers Mean

• Hematocrit: Percentage of blood that is red blood cells
• Hemoglobin: Protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen
• Too low: You may be anemic - donation not safe
• Too high: Rare, but also a deferral reason

How to Boost Iron Levels

Short-Term (Days Before)

1. Eat iron-rich foods: Red meat, spinach, beans
2. Add vitamin C: Helps iron absorption
3. Avoid calcium with iron: Calcium blocks absorption
4. Cook in cast iron: Adds iron to food

Long-Term (Regular Donors)

1. Iron supplements: Talk to doctor about daily iron
2. Consistent diet: Maintain iron-rich eating habits
3. Track your levels: Know your baseline
4. Space donations: Allow full recovery between donations

Best Foods for Iron

Heme Iron (Best Absorbed)

• Red meat: Beef, lamb, venison
• Organ meats: Liver (highest iron)
• Poultry: Dark meat chicken, turkey
• Seafood: Oysters, clams, shrimp

Non-Heme Iron (Plant Sources)

• Leafy greens: Spinach, kale, Swiss chard
• Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, black beans
• Fortified cereals: Check labels for iron content
• Tofu: Especially firm tofu
• Nuts/seeds: Pumpkin seeds, cashews

Iron Absorption Tips

• Add vitamin C: Orange juice, bell peppers, tomatoes
• Avoid with meals: Coffee, tea, dairy (block absorption)
• Best timing: Eat iron-rich meal night before AND morning of

What If You're Rejected for Low Iron?

Same Day

• Can't retest: Usually must wait until next visit
• Not a ban: Come back another day
• Learn from it: Adjust diet before next attempt

Repeated Deferrals

• See a doctor: May indicate underlying issue
• Consider supplements: With medical guidance
• Space donations: Give body more recovery time
• Underlying conditions: Rule out anemia causes

Special Considerations

Women

• Menstruation: Iron loss during periods
• Higher risk: More likely to have low iron
• Consider timing: May have higher levels mid-cycle

Vegetarians/Vegans

• Non-heme iron: Less easily absorbed
• Pair with vitamin C: Critical for absorption
• May need supplements: Consider iron supplement

Regular Donors

• Cumulative loss: Frequent donation depletes iron over time
• Proactive approach: Don't wait for rejection
• Supplements recommended: Many regular donors take iron