THE PROTECTOR
Platelets are the tiniest cells in the blood that provide protection to human body against excessive blood loss, such as during an injury, by forming clots. If one of your blood vessels gets damaged, it will send signals to the platelets to form a clot and repair the damage. If the blood platelet count falls below normal i.e. 150,000 to 45,000 platelets per microliter of circulating blood, the condition is called thrombocytopenia. It can either be inherited or may occur due to a number of medications or conditions such as dengue, alcohol intake and viruses. You can, however, maintain platelet levels by consuming foods that are rich in iron. Here are some of the best foods to increase blood platelets naturally.
POMEGRANATE
If you have been wondering how to improve blood platelet count, pomegranate has got your back. Pomegranate, which is known for its healthy and medicinal properties from ancient times, is loaded with nutrients such as vitamin C, which boosts immune system, minerals and anti-oxidants. Its rich red colour is a proof of the iron content in it. You may eat either it raw or drink its juice.
MILK
Milk, an excellent source of calcium, phosphorous and potassium is also one of the best natural ways to increase blood platelets. Calcium not only builds strong bones, teeth and prevents osteoporosis but also helps regenerate the number of blood platelets in the body. Calcium, vitamin K and a protein called fibrinogen, all work together to increase platelet count and the blood’s ability to form clots. Without adequate level of calcium, your body can take longer to form blood clots. You can also consume cheese, yogurt and other organic dairy products to maintain calcium levels.
FOLATE-RICH FOOD
Deficiency of folate in the body can lead to reduction of blood platelets. You can, however, prevent this by consuming a diet that is rich in folate. Vitamin B9 or folate is essential for rapid cell division and growth, synthesis and repair of DNA and proper functioning of the brain. A healthy adult on an average should consume at least 400 mg of folate every day. Foods rich in folate are asparagus, orange juice, spinach and fortified cereals.
LEAN PROTEINS
Proteins form the building blocks for bodily tissues. Lean protein foods are excellent sources of zinc and vitamin B12, which is essential for reversing effects of thrombocytopenia. People with reduced platelets should switch to a diet, which has adequate amount of lean proteins such as turkey, chicken and fish.
PAPAYA
Did you know that papaya leaf extract is excellent for overall blood production and increase in platelet count? Yes, just put some water and papaya leaves in a kettle. Turn the kettle on medium heat for 10-15 minutes to slowly draw the extract from papaya leaves. The solution should be boiled until the liquid simmers down to half its volume. Drink this extract twice a day to increase blood platelet count.
COD LIVER AND FLAXSEED OIL
Consumption of either cod liver oil or flaxseed oil is good for your immune system. Both the oils combat the tendency of the body to confuse and attack its own platelets. Thrombocytopenia or low platelet count can happen due to various autoimmune disorders. These oils not only reduce inflammation in the body but also improve blood circulation.
VITAMIN A
Vitamin A plays a vital role in the formation of healthy platelets and protein in the body. A healthy protein regulates the process of cell division and growth. Regular consumption of foods rich in vitamin A is important to sustain normal body functioning. Foods that are rich in vitamin A include carrot, pumpkin, kale and sweet potatoes. Now that you know what to eat to increase count of blood platelets, start eating these from today!