giving blood. Any problems

If you do intensive exercise the day before you donate it could mean you fail the Haemoglobin/Iron test they do if your levels are naturally not especially high. If you pass the thumb prick test after an 80 mile sportive then that's a sign your blood doping

I'm doing an 80 mile sportive on Sunday, so I opted for a donation on Monday. Somebody is going to be getting a pint of tired blood!

Don't give it all...

Although yeah it will probably be fine.

My expert advice... is to seek expert advice.

Don't take medical advice from faceless people on the internet.

Give your blood mate, its worth it and you can always do another ride.

Due to having extensive tattoo's i'm not allowed to give blood for a while which is a shame as its a worthwhile cause.

Tyler Hamilton says it makes you feel a bit washed out for days afterwards! Reading his book suggests that it affects you for two weeks. It is putting it back in that is the dodgy bit, gives you the chills... according to him

I'm sure it'll be fine but probably worth mentioning to the nurse during the pre blood giving check and let her confirm (rather than let us lot give you the all clear based on internet searches and our own experience).

After all, we are all different and don't know your personal health history.

Hat off to you for donating!

Just look at it as altitude training....what doesn't kill you only makes you stronger.

I wouldn't worry should be fine!

+1 snappyandrew

Looking to shift a few cells to avoid that high hematocrit you know is just around the corner?

You should be fine- my donation sessions are usually always on a Friday and don't imnpact on rides on Saturday or Sunday-I just avoid going out on the Friday evening. Still useful excuse to have if you get dropped though!

Q: How long will it take to replenish the pint?

A: Blood volume is replaced within 24 hours. Red cells need about 4 to 8 weeks for complete replacement. You need to wait 56 days or 8 weeks to donate again.

Q: How will I feel after donation?

A: Most people feel great! Donors who know what to expect and have eaten regular meals before donating are usually fine. After donating, drink extra fluids for the next 24 hours.

Q: How soon after donating can I get back to my regular routine?

A: Right away. Just avoid lifting, pushing or picking up heavy objects for about 4 or 5 hours after giving blood.

http://www.bnl.gov/hr/blooddrive/FAQ.asp

Your body should have fully recovered by Sunday. If you look up online how long it takes to restore the pint of blood, I'm pretty sure its just a couple of days and you should have no adverse effects.

If it was tomorrow you were doing the ride, I would be wary, but its 5 days after your donation, you should be fine