Platelets are components in your blood that help the blood to clot. If you have a low platelet count, known as thrombocytopenia, you are at an increased risk of bleeding. No special diet is recommended for people with low platelet counts, but making changes to your diet may help improve your blood count and lower your risk of bleeding.
Fluids
When your blood platelet count is low you want to make sure you drink plenty of fluids to help keep your mouth moist to limit the risk of bleeding. An adequate intake of fluid also helps promote bowel health and prevent constipation, which can also increase your risk of bleeding. Aim for 64 to 80 oz. of fluid a day. Fluid choices should be nonalcoholic. Alcohol can damage bone marrow, according to the Platelet Disorder Support Association.
Fruits and Vegetables
When trying to build your platelet count, you want to include as many nutrient-rich foods as possible. Fruits and vegetables are good choices. However, you may want to avoid fruits or vegetables because they can damage your intestinal tract and increase your risk of bleeding. Try to include leafy greens in your diet plan, such as kale and spinach. Leafy greens are rich in vitamin K, which is an important nutrient for blood clotting.
Grains
Grains are also an important source of essential nutrients your body needs to stay healthy. To maximize your nutrient intake, make most of your choices whole grain. Include soft-cooked grains to limit intestinal damage. Good choices include whole-wheat pasta, brown rice, quinoa, millet, soft wheat breads, whole-grain cooked cereals and whole-grain ready-to-eat cereals softened in milk.
Healthy Proteins
Platelets are made up of protein, so you want to make sure you get in adequate amounts of protein to support production. Talk to your doctor about your daily protein needs. In general, adult men need 56 g of protein a day, and adult women need 46 g a day. Lean meats, such as poultry, and fish, eggs, beans and low-fat dairy products are all good sources of protein.
Foods to Avoid
In addition to alcohol, you may also want to avoid foods that interfere with blood clotting. These foods include garlic, apricots, blueberries, grapes, oranges, plums, raspberries, tomatoes and hot peppers.
References
- NetDoctor; Thrombocytopenia; Claire Harrison and Samuel Machin
- Platelet Disorder Support Association: ITP Diet Suggestions
- Linus Pauling Institute; Vitamin K; Jane Higdon; May 2004
- OncoLink: Low Platelet Count (Thrombocytopenia)
- MyPlate.gov: Food Groups
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Protein
