Your blood contains a number of specialized cell types, which perform a range of functions to support the continued health of your cells and tissues. Among these specialized cells are platelets, which help control the thickness of your blood and also function in wound repair. Upon injury, platelet cells begin to aggregate, forming a scab to stop bleeding at the site of the wound. The number of platelets in your blood also determines your blood thickness with abnormally high or low platelet counts increasing your risk for bleeding disorders. A number of vitamins from your diet interact with platelets and support proper platelet functioning.
Vitamin K-Rich Foods
Foods rich in vitamin K can help platelets function properly. Vitamin K plays an essential role in platelet function and blood coagulation, helping to regulate the enzymes required for blood clot formation. The Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University explains that vitamin K helps activate seven proteins involved in the clotting cascade. Foods rich in vitamin K include leafy greens like lettuce and parsley, olive, soybean and canola oils as well as cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, kale and Swiss chard.
Vitamin A-Rich Foods
Another type of food you can eat to support platelet function are foods rich in vitamin A, or retinol. Vitamin A plays a role in regulating the proteins produced in your cells and this regulation of protein production can help guide cellular maturation. Specifically, vitamin A helps stem cells within your bone marrow mature into mature blood cells, including platelets, and defects in vitamin A signaling can disrupt normal blood cell maturation, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. You can help support proper platelet development by consuming foods rich in vitamin A, such as fish oil, carrots, kale, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin, as well as vitamin A-fortified dairy products and cereals.
Folic Acid-Rich Foods
Folic acid-rich foods can also help support platelet functioning. Folic acid, or vitamin B9, plays a role in the development of a number of tissues, including platelets. Folic acid promotes proper DNA synthesis, an essential step in cell proliferation. Without proper DNA synthesis, your bone marrow cells cannot properly divide and give rise to mature blood cells such as functional platelets. As a result, deficiencies in folic acid lead to abnormal platelet growth. Consuming foods rich in vitamin B9, such as cooked spinach and asparagus, fortified cereal, lentils and lima beans, can prevent a folic acid deficiency and support proper platelet function.
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