Discover advice about donating blood, consuming caffeine and more from UAB Department of Family and Community Medicine providers this month.

“I heard there is a severe blood shortage right now. How do I know if I am eligible to give blood?”

Assistant professor Sumayah Abed, M.D., explained how it important it is to consider donating blood right now, and how to know who can give blood.

Sumayah Abed, M.D.

Abed noted that The American Red Cross, which supplies 40% of U.S. hospital blood, announced that the coronavirus caused a severe blood shortage for the organization. Unfortunately, Abed stated that America is trying to handle this shortage in a country where blood is needed every other second, and blood transfusions are becoming more common.

“There is an increasing demand for blood transfusions for patients suffering from cancer, blood diseases like sickle cell anemia, physical trauma, and complications of pregnancy and delivery,” Abed said.

Not only does blood donation help the sick, Abed mentioned it could benefit the donor as well.

“Studies show that donating blood on a regular basis may protect against cardiovascular disease by lowering total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein levels. Other studies found that blood donation is linked to improved mental health and donors grow closer to their communities,” explained Abed.

Abed noted that anyone healthy who weighs at or above 110 pounds and is at least 16 can donate blood.

“What guidelines should I follow for consuming caffeine in a healthy way?”

Caroline Cohen, Ph.D., R.D., L.D.

Caffeine is a popular ingredient in many drinks and foods that Americans consume. Still, since it can cause adverse as well as positive health effects, assistant professor Caroline Cohen, Ph.D., R.D., L.D., recommends using it in moderation.

"Abundant research evidence supports caffeine's positive effects on sports performance, especially in endurance activities; it also improves reaction time and concentration. In addition, it can provide relief from migraine and headaches," Cohen explained. "However, its drawbacks include gastric distress, sleep disruption, anxiety/nervousness and increased blood pressure."

To do this, she recommends that adults drink no more than 400 milligrams of caffeine daily and half of this amount for pregnant women. Since Cohen mentioned the average brewed cup of coffee has 160 milligrams of caffeine and energy drinks can have more than 200 milligrams, most people should limit their consumption to just one or two a day.

In addition to these drinks, Cohen mentioned that several other everyday items also contain caffeine. "Remember that chocolate, coffee-flavored items (like ice cream!), pain medications and some energy bars may also contain small amounts of caffeine."

Cohen advises teens and children to avoid caffeine, which can hurt their sleep schedule.

“What is a simple, healthy snack to make when I have a sweet tooth?”

Tori Faught, M.S., RDN

It is often difficult to choose healthier snacks as opposed to less nutritious foods when hunger strikes. Fortunately, registered dietitian nutritionist Tori Faught, M.S., R.D.N., showed us how to make a quick, 5-ingredient fruit smoothie from a recipe at myplate.gov.

This simple smoothie is as easy as blending yogurt, milk, strawberries and banana together in a blender. Faught also added ice as a personal preference. This smoothie is great as an after-school snack, dessert or as part of a healthy breakfast.

Click here to see the full recipe.

For more advice from our providers, please check our social media every Friday for a new Ask a Provider post.

Written by Ann Marie Stephens, Communications Intern