It’s National Blood Donor Month
Since 1970, National Blood Donor Month has been celebrated in January. Historically, the winter season is one of the most difficult times of the year to collect enough blood products and donations to meet patient needs. While “whole blood” donations are the most common, individuals can also make platelet, power red and plasma donations.
Donated blood is used for blood transfusions. Common scenarios in which blood transfusions are needed include the following:
- Patients suffering from severe trauma following disasters and accidents
- Patients receiving surgical treatments and some medical treatments, including cancer patients and patients with sickle cell disease
Making the decision to donate blood can help save a life, but not everyone is eligible to donate blood. Visit the American Red Cross’ website to see if you meet the requirements to safely donate blood.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Total Calories | 390 |
| Total Fat | 14 g |
| Protein | 49 g |
| Carbohydrates | 16 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Sodium | 460 mg |
| Total Sugars | 2 g |
Source: USDA
Mexican Chicken Soup
Ingredients
- 3 pounds chicken pieces (skin removed)
- 2 cups tomatoes (chopped)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- ½ cup onion (chopped)
- ¼ cup mild canned chilies (diced)
- 2 cups canned pinto or garbanzo beans (drained)
Preparations
- Place chicken pieces in a large saucepan and add enough water to cover.
- Cook until tender, about 25 minutes.
- Remove chicken pieces from the broth.
- Add tomatoes, garlic, onion and chilies.
- Remove chicken meat from the bones and return meat to broth.
- Add beans, and salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for about 15 minutes.
For more information and helpful links, please download our January 2020 Live Well, Work Well Newsletter.
This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to be exhaustive, nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as professional advice. Readers should contact a health professional for appropriate advice.