6 Ways to Increase Protein for Plasma Donation
What is plasma?
Did you know that more than half of your blood is made up of plasma and that plasma is 92% water? Although it is largely comprised of water, plasma also contains the essential proteins like antibodies and coagulation proteins as well as others. Because of this, it’s important for donors to maintain a high level of protein when donating plasma. There are things you can do to boost your protein levels. Disclaimer: The following high-protein sources may not be appropriate for all individuals. Please speak with your health care provider before making changes to your diet.
6 easy ways to get more protein:
1. Indulge in a little red meat
Feel free to indulge in that steak! Eating red meat is a great way to increase the protein levels in your blood. Just make sure to enjoy a leaner cut. Compare the nutritional value of a 3-ounce serving of each of these steaks: a sirloin contains 26 grams of protein, 150 calories and 5 grams of fat vs. a ribeye, which contains 15 grams of protein, 200 calories and 15 grams of fat. Consider the same when choosing ground beef: A 3-ounce serving of 93% lean ground beef contains 24 grams of protein, 170 calories and 8 grams of fat. The same size serving of 80% lean ground beef has 19 grams of protein, 200 calories and 17 grams of fat.
2. Eat pork
Pork is also an excellent source of protein, providing 26 grams in a 3.5-ounce serving. Here are some tasty recipes to try that might also be a little kinder to your budget than the steak above: 23 Budget-Friendly Pork Chop Recipes (tasty.co)
3. Enjoy some poultry
Arguably one of the most versatile foods to plan a meal around, poultry is also very high in protein. A 4-ounce roasted chicken breast contain 26 grams of protein. Try these delicious chicken recipes for your next meal: https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/photos/easy-chicken-dinner-recipes
As a nutrition enthusiast with a deep understanding of the importance of protein in maintaining overall health, I'd like to share my expertise on the concepts discussed in the article "6 Ways to Increase Protein for Plasma Donation."
Plasma, a vital component of blood, constitutes more than half of our blood volume and is primarily composed of water (92%). Despite its high water content, plasma plays a crucial role in transporting essential proteins like antibodies and coagulation factors. For individuals donating plasma, maintaining adequate protein levels is imperative.
Now, let's delve into the six ways suggested in the article to increase protein for plasma donation:
-
Indulge in Lean Red Meat:
- Red meat is an excellent source of protein, with a 3-ounce serving of sirloin providing 26 grams of protein, 150 calories, and 5 grams of fat.
- It's emphasized to choose lean cuts for a healthier option. A comparison is drawn between sirloin and ribeye, highlighting the protein, calorie, and fat content differences.
-
Include Pork in Your Diet:
- Pork is highlighted as another valuable source of protein, offering 26 grams in a 3.5-ounce serving.
- The article suggests budget-friendly pork chop recipes as an alternative to red meat, providing variety in protein sources.
-
Opt for Poultry:
- Poultry is recognized as a versatile and high-protein food choice, with a 4-ounce roasted chicken breast containing 26 grams of protein.
- The article directs readers to explore delicious chicken recipes for meal planning.
The overarching theme revolves around diverse protein sources, emphasizing the need for individuals to maintain protein levels while donating plasma. It's important to note that the article includes a disclaimer, urging readers to consult their healthcare providers before making dietary changes, acknowledging the individualized nature of nutritional needs.
If you have any specific questions or if there's more you'd like to know about protein-rich foods or plasma donation nutrition, feel free to ask.
FAQs
You don't need to be a meat-eater to increase your protein levels. Tofu, edamame, lentils, beans, nuts, seeds and dark leafy greens are all excellent sources of protein.
Why is my protein low when I donate plasma? ›
Donating plasma can lead to lower protein levels and, as mentioned, dehydration; this is because plasma is mostly water. Because it contains water, salt, and proteins, it's best to eat foods that can rehydrate and refuel your body. To help your body recover, consider a protein smoothie.
How can I raise my protein levels quickly? ›
Pre-cooked canned beans and lentils, cheese sticks and slices, nut and seed packets, and canned seafood products like tuna fish, salmon, and sardines are examples of ready-to-eat, protein-rich products that can be used to create high-protein meals quickly when you're short on time.
How much protein should I eat before giving plasma? ›
Complete an extensive medical history screening. Test non-reactive for transmissible viruses including hepatitis and HIV. Follow a recommended diet including 50 to 80 grams of daily protein.
What does your body need to rebuild plasma proteins? ›
The amount and character of protein intake is all important. Liver protein and casein are efficient proteins to promote rapid regeneration of plasma proteins but some vegetable proteins are also efficient.
Can you drink a protein shake before donating plasma? ›
Pump up your protein:
You can find protein in many foods like eggs, canned tuna, roast beef sandwich, canned beans, cottage cheese, spinach, nuts, Greek yogurt, bagel with peanut butter, or protein shakes and bars. It is also helpful to eat within an hour of your donation appointment.
How long does it take to build up your protein levels? ›
If the deficiency is mild and short-term, increasing protein intake through dietary changes can lead to improvements relatively quickly. This may take a few weeks to a couple of months.
Are eggs good before donating plasma? ›
Foods Rich in Protein
Consuming protein-rich foods before and after donating blood can help increase the number of red blood cells in the body, making the donation process more comfortable. Foods rich in protein include eggs, chicken, fish, nuts, and seeds.
How to get 150g of protein a day? ›
An Easy Way To Get 150+ Grams Of Protein
- 3 Eggs - 18 grams.
- 50 g of Egg Whites - 5 grams.
- 1 cup of Fairlife 2% Milk - 13 grams.
- 4 oz Ground Turkey - 20 grams.
- 1 ½ cups of Cottage Cheese - 16 grams.
- 2 Scoops of Protein Supplement - 31 grams.
- 3 Tbsps of Peanut Butter - 10 grams.
- 1 Packet of Safe Catch Tuna - 23 grams.
Animal-derived proteins: 3 oz canned tuna (20 g of protein), 3 oz cooked salmon (19g), 3 oz skirt steak (25 g), 3 oz cooked chicken breast (27 g), 4 slices of deli meat (8 g), 156 g plain Greek yogurt (16 g), 220 g cottage cheese (24 g), 245g 2% milk (8 g), or 1 whole egg (6g).
- Consume eggs and dairy. Consider eating eggs for breakfast instead of cereal: Three large eggs contain 19 grams of protein (vs. 5 grams of protein in a bowl of oatmeal). ...
- Eat plant-based proteins. You don't need to be a meat-eater to increase your protein levels. ...
- Enjoy other sources of protein.
What to eat before donating blood and plasma? Two days before the donor donation, it is recommended to consume: cereals and pasta cooked in water. boiled lean meat (chicken, turkey) and lean fish.
What helps you donate plasma faster? ›
Limiting alcohol and caffeine intake and eating a protein- and iron-rich diet in the days before your appointment can help your body prepare for donation. Eating a healthy snack or meal a few hours before your appointment and staying hydrated is also helpful.
What is the long term effects of donating plasma? ›
What are side effects of donating plasma? As mentioned above, there is risk of low immunoglobulin levels because it takes time for the levels to replenish. Those who donate frequently and long term may also be at risk for anemia from incidental loss of red cells during donation.
Why do I feel better after donating plasma? ›
In addition, when you're donating plasma, your body releases endorphins, which can improve your mood and lower your stress. This explains why some people who donate feel less anxious after their session has been completed.
What organ is responsible for plasma proteins? ›
The reticuloendothelial cells of the liver are in charge of plasma protein synthesis in adults. The bone marrow, degenerating blood cells, general body tissue cells, and the spleen also contribute to the formation of plasma proteins.
What affects plasma protein levels? ›
For instance, high blood protein is found in people who are dehydrated. However, the real problem is that the blood plasma is actually more concentrated. Certain proteins in the blood may be elevated as your body fights an infection or some other inflammation.
What disease is related to low plasma protein? ›
Hypoproteinaemia can be caused by malnutrition or malabsorption due to intestinal disease, by excessive loss of plasma protein either into urine (nephrotic syndrome) or into the gut lumen (protein-losing enteropathy), or by hepatic failure, the liver being the site of synthesis of the plasma proteins albumin, ...
What would a decrease in plasma protein content increase? ›
Decreased plasma protein binding leads to an increase in free plasma fraction causing an increase in volume of distribution and a shorter elimination half life. The increase in the apparent volume of distribution and the shorter elimination half life cause a decrease in total plasma concentration.
What happens when plasma proteins are lost? ›
Loss of both liver-derived and non-liver-derived proteins may cause reduced immunity, anemia, and deficiency syndromes.
