Platelets are substances in your blood that are characterized by sticky surfaces and irregular shapes. When a tear in skin occurs, platelets gather at the wound site to stop the flow of blood by forming a substance called fibrin. Certain foods might affect the production and activity of platelets, which can affect your body's ability to control blood loss.
Vitamin K
Vitamin K is known for its role in preventing excessive bleeding by encouraging the production of blood platelets. Eat vitamin K-rich foods such as avocados, strawberries, kale, spinach, eggs, brussels sprouts, safflower oil and yogurt to your diet to boost your vitamin K intake.
Calcium
Although calcium is most well known for its role in maintaining the health of your teeth and bones, this mineral is essential for blood platelet production. Low-fat dairy products, such as cottage cheese, skim milk and yogurt, are abundant sources of dietary calcium. Certain types of seafood, particularly salmon and sardines, are also abundant in calcium. Other food sources include asparagus, almonds, cabbage, figs, cayenne pepper, alfalfa, prunes and tofu.
Garlic
Garlic is commonly used as a spice in Italian, Caribbean, Asian and Indian cuisine. It also has a long history of use in herbal medicine -- ancient Roman physicians believed it could cure leprosy, and Russian doctors used it to prevent wound infections during World War I. However, the primary chemical compound in garlic, called allicin, might inhibit your body's ability to produce blood platelets, according to Michael Castleman, author of "The New Healing Herbs." Check with your doctor before consuming garlic, particularly if you take prescription blood-thinning medications.
Ginger
Ginger rhizomes, or roots, play an important role in the cuisines of China, Thailand, Japan and India. These roots have a strong, spicy taste and unmistakable aroma that pairs well with vegetables and legumes. Ancient Chinese healers also used ginger root to treat motion sickness. However, ginger might inhibit your body's ability to clot blood by interfering with platelet production, according to Castleman. Talk to your doctor before consuming ginger.
References
- Franklin Institute: Platelets
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis Balch et al; 2010
- "The New Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 2010
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