In honour of World Health Day, the SANBS encouraged the public to adopt a healthy lifestyle.
Annually observed on 7 April, World Health Day marks the anniversary of the establishment of the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 1948.
“As a health service provider, the SANBS values the importance of general wellness,” said Dr Pheello Melato, lead consultant of Donor Services at the blood service.
“This is why we advocate for healthy and wholesome living and promote this to our blood donors.”
- The blood service has offered five tips that can help members of the public to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Eat healthy foods. Make it a point to opt for foods rich in nutrients and fibre, but low in calories. These include fruit, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, beans, skinless poultry, lean meats and fatty fish like salmon, trout and herring. Limit processed foods with saturated and trans fats, salt and added sugar. ) Walk more. Walking is a great form of exercising and has many health benefits. Whenever possible, take the stairs instead of an elevator.) Drink enough water. More than just quenching your thirst, water regulates body temperature and blood pressure. Keep a water bottle near you, as it serves as a great reminder to drink water consistently. ) Practice safer sexual health. Leading a sexually safe lifestyle is vital to overall healthy living. Picking the right partner is a good start. The key to this is minimising the risk of contracting infections that can be transmitted through blood or bodily fluids.) Get enough sleep. To function optimally, getting enough sleep is crucial. Try to go to sleep at the same time every night to form a good routine. This will also reinforce your body’s sleep-wake cycle.
“Leading a healthy life will also help you to become a healthy regular blood donor, allowing you to assist those in need of emergency blood,” said Melato.
“Blood stocks remain critically low.”
