There is a certain sense of satisfaction that comes with debunking any myth. In this instance, some people think [donating blood plasma](http://www.ksl.com/ad_logger/ad_logger.php?location=http://plasmadonationutah.com/& sponsor=grifols-plasmafeb-body1) is risky or meaningless. That notion, however, is not true — so let's put those rumors to rest and talk about the facts.

Myth #1: Donating plasma puts you at risk for getting sick

While the jury still is out on whether donating plasma will improve your health — some studies indicate donating blood can benefit the donor — there definitely is no evidence that donating plasma will compromise your health. Some people may experience reactions to donation, but a good meal before donating and plenty of water afterward will ease most symptoms.

The FDA strictly regulates plasma donation centers and limits donations to twice per week. Donors must wait 48 hours between donations, but the body starts to recover immediately.

Your body has reserves of blood proteins that are triggered for use any time blood is low. These reserves are replenished with every meal you eat, according to a study performed by pnas.org.

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Other health benefits — There is also a strong, documented link between performing good deeds and maintaining good health. An article in Huffington Post highlights "How Random Acts of Kindness Can Benefit Your Health." Consider donating plasma your good deed for the day.

Myth #2: Plasma donations are just used for research

While a small amount of plasma is used for research, it's important to remember even then that research is necessary for medical advancements.

The primary use of plasma donations, however, is to make blood protein therapies. According to the University of Rochester's Health Encyclopedia, "The proteins and antibodies in plasma are also used to create therapies for rare chronic conditions, such as autoimmune disorders and hemophilia. With access to these treatments, people with these conditions can live long and productive lives. In fact, some health organizations call plasma 'the gift of life.'"

Other blood protein therapies are used to create blood volume expanders for patients with blood loss, immunoglobulin for immune-compromised persons and clotting factors for patients with clotting disorders. Click here to see examples of medications that are made through blood plasma donation.

Myth #3: Many donors are homeless

All donors are required to provide proof of a permanent address. No residence, no donation. Also, donors must be in and maintain good physical health. They are given more comprehensive physicals before their first donations, as well as mini-physicals before subsequent donations.

Not only do donations help save the lives of people who receive plasma, but the physical also has helped some donors recognize when they are in need of medical care.

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Myth #4: Many donate to support a drug habit

It's true that some donation centers reimburse their donors for their time and that the donors can spend that money as they see fit. But drug users are not allowed to donate plasma.

A strict process screens for physical, mental and behavioral signs of drug use. So if the money goes to drugs used by that individual, that is the end of the person's donation career.

Now that those myths are, well... debunked, visit a plasma donation center near you to enjoy the benefits that come from donating.

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