Plasma is the liquid portion of blood, approximately 92% water, carrying proteins, salts, enzymes, and antibodies throughout the body. It is essential for numerous medical treatments, including those for trauma, burn patients, and individuals with immune deficiencies or bleeding disorders. Proper preparation, including careful consideration of what one drinks, is important for a successful and safe donation.
Recommended Beverages
Maintaining adequate hydration is important for plasma donation. Since plasma is largely composed of water, proper fluid intake helps maintain the body’s blood volume. This ensures the donation process is well-tolerated and can contribute to a quicker recovery.
Drink plenty of water. Consuming 12 to 24 ounces of water or a sports drink 30 to 60 minutes before donation is advised. Aim for 6 to 8 cups of water the day before and the day of the donation. Sports drinks with electrolytes can also be beneficial as they aid water absorption.
Good hydration helps ensure veins are adequately dilated, making needle insertion easier and promoting smoother blood flow. It also reduces potential adverse effects like dizziness or lightheadedness, which can occur if a donor is dehydrated.
Beverages to Avoid
Avoid certain beverages before donating plasma due to their potential negative impacts on hydration, blood composition, and plasma quality. Alcohol acts as a diuretic, causing dehydration and affecting blood chemistry; avoid it for at least 24 to 48 hours prior.
Caffeinated beverages like coffee, tea, and some sodas also have diuretic properties. Caffeine can increase heart rate, potentially leading to deferral; limit or avoid these on donation day or several hours beforehand.
Sugary drinks, including sodas and fruit juices with added sugars, can impact blood sugar, leading to fatigue or dizziness. High-fat beverages like whole milk or cream should also be avoided.
Fats carried in plasma can result in “lipemic” plasma, which appears cloudy or milky. Lipemic plasma interferes with laboratory tests, potentially rendering it unusable. Avoid fatty foods and drinks for 6 to 24 hours before your appointment.
Why Preparation Matters
Adhering to drinking guidelines before plasma donation is important for donor well-being and plasma quality. Proper hydration minimizes adverse reactions like dizziness or fainting by stabilizing blood pressure and maintaining blood volume. Well-hydrated donors have more accessible veins, leading to a smoother, more comfortable experience.
The quality and suitability of donated plasma for medical use also depend on proper preparation. Plasma must be clear and free of excessive lipids for effective processing into life-saving therapies. As discussed, lipemic plasma interferes with testing and may lead to discard.
Following these guidelines helps prevent donation deferral, ensuring donors contribute to the consistent supply of plasma-derived medications for patients relying on them.