How do we prevent iron deficiency? Bloodbank Visit @ Woodlands

Finals Examinations have finally come to an end; and placement came straight after. For the better or otherwise, I will decide later.

I pay Bloodbank a visit last Sunday after Youth Group Tuition. They called me sometime last week as there was a shortage of blood for B+. Nickie had the intention to donate and so, we embarked our journey to Bloodbank. 

I was still a little nervous, maybe quite a big part of me are still scared about that thick needle. While, the standard procedure was to declare and signs all the forms before proceeding for check-up with the doctor. I had an iron-level as low as a 9. Yes, I was suffering from iron deficiency. The acceptable haemoglobin level for blood donors in Singapore is 12.5mg/dL. The haemoglobin level of blood is obtained through a finger prick that guide the suitability for donating blood. 

In case you are wondering what exactly is haemoglobin, it is basically a specialised protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to the tissues and return carbon dioxide from tissues to the lungs. Haemoglobin consists of iron groups, which are essential for the manufacture of haemoglobin and thus, the transport of oxygen.

Now that we have a better understanding of the importance of Iron, so what are the reasons that lead to Iron Deficiency?

(The following list is not exhaustive; I'm writing to the best of my knowledge):

1. Increased physiological demand of the body for iron e.g. during pregnancy and breast feeding 
2. Loss of blood by haemorrhage 
3. Inadequate iron intake 
4. Malabsorption 
5. Menstrual Blood Loss

Apparently, I happen to fall under the 5th category and maybe a little of 3rd. 

Female loses between 0.5mg-1mg iron per day on average for the whole of the 28 days menstrual cycle. Therefore, to compensate for the loss, we women, need to consume twice the amount of male. 

I was having my period of the month and I happily went for blood donation, how smart. 

Nickie passed the test and went ahead with her donation. Then, she felt giddy. I was so worried for her then. She looked so pale, and was having cold sweat. 

Okay, basically the both of us have the most screwed biological clock ever during the Final Examinations period. We sleep in the day, and the hours barely add up to 4 hours. We have no idea if we were too stressed up or otherwise, we just couldn't sleep then. 

Yes, we are slowly adjusting now. I hope we will get better. :( 

Hell yes, we think too highly of ourselves. God did everything to deter us from donating that pack of blood because he knew that out body could not handle that. 

Wanted to loss weight too badly, and I guess this approach doesn't work out at all. Damn. 

TIME TO WORK TOWARDS A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE. 

Consume food that supplies adequate nutrients - says the doctor. I should really stop skipping meals just because it sucks to chew with braces. 

Why fear the Future?

I tried as mush as possible to start off my everyday with compassionate thoughts.
I have learnt this from famous LadyGaga; a very inspiring musical icon. She mentioned that she practices this during one of her Interview.

It helps! It makes you appreciate little things in life. And it is exactly these little things that add up to make your day a whole lot better!
Afterall, happiness is your own choice. It ultimately depend on how you view things.

As much as it is a crazy thing to sleep in the day, I'm not frustrated at my biological clock no more.
I will give it some time and I'm sure it ail adjust back pretty well soon.
To embrace that, I don't have any more morning papers.
One less thing to worry at least; for that I would not feel lethargic and lose concentration during Finals. YAY. (Although I'm surviving on caffeine for some)

It's not that bad starting at night.
Well, of course I know it's unhealthy but at least I can still absorb the contents!

I have been chewing on this adorable cherry tomatoes for the past days; replacing them with unhealthy snacks. I had been gobbling too much chocolates and other sinful food for the past weeks.

This was an EMPTY DOUBLE-decker bus 96 after my SSA1208 paper on Tuesday. Life was too good that day, except for that consultation that almost forces me to cry in front of 3 TAs.
I know it sounded dumb, but I was feeling so helpless then. I couldn't do anything to salvage my D+. Thank you Xing Jun for accompanying me and fighting with/for me. I love you :)

God has been so kind to me, gracing me with such a comfortable ride home after a long day. Thank you! 


Well, I do not have exciting/happening things to share these days; in the midst of Finals. So, I have tried to find little things that I could still celebrate in this hectic week. and I certainly hope you dear readers find joy in reading it too!


I saw this video some time back. Brilliant.
There is beauty in each and everyone. 


I could die listening to this little boy sings.
He has so much soul when the melody plays.
If he had not received any musical/vocal training, he's just too amazing.
Pure talent; how beautiful!

I am so glad Ellen manages to find him and he's going on her show in a few days to come!

After a Good Run

Yeah, my stamina sucks so I pant like crazy when I finally reached home. It has been century since the lazy me decided to drag myself out for a run.
Feeling refresh now though! :D

On a side note, my right eyelid feels heavy. Back to single eyelid. Dafuq :(

Kakak got me these beautiful strawberries and tadaa~
Yogurt time - healthy day with a good run and healthy food!

I feel good~! :D