Nutrition
Iron-Rich Foods to Boost Haemoglobin Before Donation
August 5, 2026
Eat these iron-rich foods in the week before donating to keep your haemoglobin healthy.
Healthy haemoglobin levels are essential before donating blood. In the 7 days leading up to your donation, include:
- Lean red meat, liver, poultry (heme iron, easily absorbed)
- Spinach, kale, lentils, beans (non-heme iron)
- Citrus fruits (vitamin C boosts iron absorption)
- Eggs, fortified cereals, pumpkin seeds
Avoid tea/coffee around meals — tannins reduce absorption. Drink plenty of water on donation day.