GRAVETTE - Many people can donate blood, but even healthy donors are sometimes temporarily deferred due to low hemoglobin levels. The American Red Cross recommends eligible blood donors eat a well-balanced diet with extra iron-rich foods prior to their donation this fall.

During the fall, iron-rich produce such as broccoli, kale, sweet potatoes, spinach, apricots and chard are in season and therefore more abundant.

Food can have two types of iron, heme and nonheme. The body can absorb up to 30 percent of heme iron, primarily found in meat, but only 2 to 10 percent of nonheme iron. Foods high in vitamin C, such as leafy greens, peppers and citrus fruits, help with iron absorption.

The Red Cross also recommends iron supplements for regular blood donors after consulting with their personal health care provider or pharmacist. Visit redcrossblood.org/ironto learn more.

Healthy blood donors help patients in need every day. Make an appointment to roll up a sleeve by calling 1-800-RED CROSS or visiting redcrossblood.org.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities include: Oct. 30, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Gravette High School, 325 Lion Drive in Gravette.

How to donate blood

Simply call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identifi cation are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent in some states), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

News, Pages 2 on 10/09/2013