Platelets – what are they?

Blood contains various types of cells, each serving a distinct purpose. They include red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Thrombocytes are specialized cells that are responsible for blood clotting whenever bleeding or injury takes place in any part of the body.

For thrombocytes to function properly, individuals must maintain very good overall health. But certain situations can cause their levels to drop rapidly. This affects the overall health of human beings. The drop in thrombocyte levels is usually the result of the following health conditions and illnesses:

• Dengue Fever.
• Viral Fevers.
• Bone Marrow Disorders (Leukemia or Lymphoma).
• Chemotherapy (a treatment for cancer patients).
• Cirrhosis.
• Enlargement of the Spleen.
• Side Effects of Certain Medications.
• Excessive Alcohol Consumption.

Symptoms of low thrombocyte levels become apparent if and only if their levels drop by a large margin. At mild levels, symptoms are not visible. Once they are, they can include the following:

• Easy bruising.
• Dark red spots on the skin (petechiae).
• Headaches following minor injuries.
• Excessive or Spontaneous bleeding.
• Bleeding from the mouth or nose after brushing teeth.

The normal platelet count range in a blood test is between 150,000 and 450,000 thrombocytes per microliter of blood. If their level becomes extremely low, the complications can be severe.

How to boost platelet production when health complications take place? It can be done either by medications or by natural methods (dietary adjustments). In cases of diseases and conditions such as dengue fever with low thrombocyte levels or viral infections, doctors may recommend their transfusion through intravenous (IV) infusion. It can help restore normal thrombocyte levels.

Why are they important

Thrombocytes are small, colorless cells in human blood. They play a key role in clot formation. When a blood vessel gets a cut/injury, these rush to that very site of the cut/injury to create a clot. It prevents excessive bleeding. Here is why healthy thrombocyte levels is vital:

• Prevention of excessive bleeding: These cells work as the human body’s first line of defense against blood loss.
• Aid in healing wounds: These cells play a crucial role in repairing tissues and facilitating healing through blood clotting.
• Maintaining overall health: Low levels of these cause fatigue, frequent bruising, internal bleeding, and other serious health issues.

Raising Thrombocyte Count Naturally

Fortunately, there are helpful tips that can help naturally raise the thrombocyte level. These tips help create step-by-step natural platelet recovery plan. We will now explore proven ways of increasing the count of these cells with the aid of Mother Nature:

Consumption of Beneficial Foods

Eating a balanced diet that includes foods to eat to increase platelets can improve both thrombocyte levels and overall health. Here are some of those worthwhile and tasty food items to add to the daily diet:

• Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and broccoli are rich in vitamin K, which helps in blood clotting and supports healthy thrombocyte production.
• Citrus Fruits: Lemons, limes, and oranges are full of vitamin C. They help enhance these cells’ function and also aid in better iron absorption.
• Pomegranate: Rich in antioxidants, it helps improve thrombocyte count by reducing oxidative stress.
• Papaya: Both the fruit and its leaf extract have been shown to improve levels of these cells. They are best for patients with dengue fever.
• Beetroot: As it is high in antioxidants, beetroot prevents free radical damage to thrombocytes and supports their production.
• Pumpkin: Pumpkin is rich in vitamin A, and it promotes thrombocyte development in the bone marrow.

Increase the intake of iron-rich foods.

Iron is key to producing hemoglobin and thrombocytes. Red meat, poultry, fish, lentils, tofu, and fortified cereals are good sources of iron.

Boosting the Intake of Folate

Folate (Vitamin B9) is important for cell growth (thrombocyte production). Foods such as asparagus, avocados, black-eyed peas, and fortified grains work well in this regard.

Proper Hydration is also Important

Proper hydration ensures optimal blood volume and circulation. They help maintain a healthy thrombocyte levels. It is advisable to drink eight to ten glasses of water daily.

A good amount of exercise works

Intense exercise may not be suitable for individuals with low levels of thrombocytes. Light to moderate physical activity improves circulation and overall health.

Avoiding processed foods

Trans fats and processed foods can disrupt production and function of these cells. Whole foods are better.

Proper stress management

Chronic stress can adversely affect thrombocyte levels. Deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can be beneficial in this regard.

A good amount of rest and sleep

Adequate sleep helps the body repair and regenerate. It also helps in the production of new thrombocytes.

Over to you

Increasing platelet levels naturally after a severe illness is not that hard. Avoiding processed foods and alcoholic beverages also helps in the production of this cell. Moreover, a proper diet combined with regular exercise, adequate rest, and quality sleep also works wonders in this regard.