Claire Dawson
Platelets are the blood cells that help blood to clot. A low platelet count is referred to as thrombocytopenia, which may increase the risk of excessive bleeding and bruising. A normal platelet count in adults ranges from 150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter of blood. While there is no quick fix for increasing platelet count, consuming foods rich in vitamins and minerals can help. For example, vitamin B12, vitamin C, folate, and iron may help increase platelet count. In addition to dietary changes, treatments for low platelet counts may include steroids, blood transfusions, or surgery to remove the spleen.
How to increase platelet count in hospital
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids | Salmon oil, walnuts, cod liver oil |
| Fruits to increase platelet count | Papaya, raspberries, goji berries, blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, kiwi, pomegranate, pineapple, mangoes, oranges |
| Foods containing folate | Leafy greens, beef liver, eggs, fortified cereals, asparagus, spinach, kale, wheatgrass juice |
| Foods containing vitamin B12 | Dairy products, eggs, milk, cheese, almond milk, soya milk, beef liver |
| Foods containing vitamin C | Amla (Indian gooseberry), pineapple, broccoli, tomatoes, mangoes, kiwi |
| Foods containing iron | Pomegranate, lentils, raisins, green leafy vegetables |
| Foods containing vitamin K | Liver, meat |
| Supplements | Chlorophyll, melatonin, papaya leaf extract |
| Lifestyle changes | Quit smoking, reduce alcohol consumption, practice good dental hygiene, avoid contact sports, wear a seatbelt |
| Medical treatments | Steroids, blood transfusions, splenectomy, medication |
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What You'll Learn
Consume foods rich in vitamins B12, C, and folate
Consuming foods rich in vitamins B12, C, and folate can help increase platelet count. Vitamin B12 is primarily found in animal-based products, such as meat, dairy products, and eggs. Organ meats, such as liver and kidneys, are particularly rich in vitamin B12. For those on vegan diets, fortified foods like certain cereals can be a good source of this vitamin. Additionally, eggs are a great source of protein and B vitamins, and Swiss cheese contains about 28% of the daily value of vitamin B12 per large slice.
Vitamin C-rich foods like Amla or Indian gooseberry, pineapple, broccoli, tomatoes, and mangoes can directly and indirectly help increase platelet counts. Vitamin C helps platelets function properly and enhances iron absorption in the body. For those looking for a dairy alternative, almond milk and soy milk are excellent sources of vitamin B12, which aids in the production of cells like platelets.
Folate, also known as vitamin B9, is essential for healthy blood cells. It can be found in leafy greens, beef liver, eggs, and fortified cereals. Folic acid is the synthetic form of folate, and it is recommended that pregnant people or those trying to conceive take a 400 microgram folic acid supplement daily until they are 12 weeks pregnant to help prevent neural tube defects. However, it is important to not consume excessive amounts of folic acid from supplements or fortified foods, as it may mask a vitamin B12 deficiency or increase the risk of colorectal cancer.
In addition to these dietary sources, supplements like chlorophyll and papaya leaf extract may also help boost platelet levels. However, it is crucial to consult a doctor before starting any new supplement to avoid potential interactions or adverse effects.
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Eat iron-rich foods like pomegranates, lentils, raisins, and leafy greens
While there is no quick fix for increasing platelet count, eating foods rich in iron is a good way to support your body's overall health.
Pomegranates are a great source of iron, which is responsible for raising your platelet count. They are also packed with antioxidants and vitamins, making them a nutritious addition to your diet.
Lentils are another iron-rich food that can help increase your platelet count. They are a good plant-based source of iron and are high in protein and dietary fibre, which can help improve your digestive health.
Raisins are a tasty snack that can also contribute to raising your platelet count. They are a good source of iron and other essential nutrients like potassium and vitamin B6.
Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and asparagus are excellent sources of iron and folate acid, which plays a crucial role in increasing platelet count by promoting healthy cell division in the body. These vegetables are also rich in vitamins and minerals, offering additional health benefits.
In addition to these specific foods, it is important to maintain a well-balanced diet that includes a variety of other iron-rich foods, such as fortified breakfast cereals, oysters, white beans, kidney beans, and cashew nuts.
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Take supplements like chlorophyll and melatonin
While there is no quick fix for increasing platelet count, consuming nutrient-rich foods and supplements can help support the entire body.
Chlorophyll
Chlorophyll is a green pigment found in plants. It is the substance that gives plants their characteristic green colour. Chlorophyll supplements are often derived from algae, specifically chlorella, which is a type of algae known for its high chlorophyll content. Chlorophyll supplements have been suggested to help boost platelet levels. However, it is important to note that research on the effectiveness of chlorophyll supplements for increasing platelet counts is limited. As with any new supplement, it is always recommended to consult a doctor to avoid potential interactions or adverse effects.
Melatonin
Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone in the body that plays a crucial role in regulating sleep-wake cycles and circadian rhythms. Additionally, melatonin has been found to have thrombopoietic properties, meaning it can increase the number of platelets in circulating blood. Several studies have investigated the impact of melatonin on platelet counts, particularly in patients with liver disease or idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). In these studies, participants receiving melatonin supplements experienced a significant increase in their platelet counts compared to those taking a placebo. The results suggest that melatonin may be effective in boosting platelet production and treating conditions associated with low platelet counts. However, more investigations are needed to confirm these findings and establish the optimal dosage and duration of melatonin therapy for this purpose. As with any supplement, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before taking melatonin to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your individual needs.
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Avoid alcohol, cranberry juice, and certain medications
Alcohol, cranberry juice, and certain medications can negatively impact platelet count and should therefore be avoided.
Alcohol inhibits platelet function and is associated with reduced platelet counts, particularly in individuals with alcohol use disorder. Research on the general population is ongoing, but it is clear that alcohol consumption can negatively impact platelet count and function.
Cranberry juice is also listed as a beverage to avoid when trying to increase platelet count. While the mechanism is not yet clear, it is best to refrain from consuming cranberry juice when attempting to raise platelet numbers.
Medications can also cause low platelet counts, a condition known as drug-induced thrombocytopenia. If unexplained bleeding or bruising occurs while taking medication, contact your healthcare provider. The first step in treating drug-induced thrombocytopenia is to stop using the medication causing the issue.
It is important to speak with a healthcare professional about your specific situation to determine the best course of action to increase your platelet count. They can advise on dietary changes, supplements, and any necessary medical treatments.
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Consider blood transfusions or steroids for severe cases
Platelet transfusions and steroids are often considered as treatment options for patients with severe thrombocytopenia or platelet dysfunction. Thrombocytopenia may occur in patients with hematologic malignancy, bone marrow failure, and other immune and non-immune causes of platelet destruction.
Platelet transfusions are a life-saving procedure that prevents or stops bleeding in patients with low platelet counts or functional platelet disorders. The decision to transfuse platelets is guided by minimum thresholds, as some cases may not warrant a transfusion. Transfusion with normal platelet counts is rare due to the short shelf life of platelets (5 days) and the need for precise processing, preparation, and administration.
The typical dosing for an adult is a pool of 6 whole blood-derived platelets or one apheresis platelet, expected to raise the platelet count by 30,000-60,000/uL in a 70 kg patient. Transfused platelets have a short lifespan and will need to be re-dosed within 3-4 days if given for prophylaxis.
Despite its life-saving potential, platelet transfusion carries risks, including allergic reactions, lung injury, circulatory overload, and infection transmission. Massive or rapid transfusions may lead to arrhythmias, hypothermia, hyperkalemia, hypocalcemia, dyspnea, and heart failure.
Steroids are another treatment option for severe cases of immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). Steroids have been found to reverse the activated state of platelets in ITP patients, making them more responsive to ADP-activation, similar to healthy controls.
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Frequently asked questions
Eating foods rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamins B12, C, and folate, and iron may help increase platelet count. Some foods that fall into this category include beef, liver, eggs, clams, mangoes, pineapple, and oranges.
If you have a low platelet count, your healthcare provider may recommend medications or blood transfusions. If your spleen is trapping a large number of platelets, you may need to undergo surgery to remove it, known as a splenectomy.
A low platelet count is referred to as thrombocytopenia. A normal platelet count in adults ranges from 150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter of blood. Thrombocytopenia may increase the risk of excessive bleeding, bruising, and internal bleeding.
