10 Foods That Help To Increase Blood Platelet Count In Dengue

With the overall rise in mosquito populations, there has been a consistent increase in dengue cases. Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection caused by one of several closely related viruses. It spreads through the bite of an infected female Aedes mosquito, which contracts the virus after biting a person already carrying it in their bloodstream.

Once a person is bitten by an infected mosquito, symptoms typically appear within 4-6 days. Common signs include high fever, persistent headaches, pain behind the eyes, and muscle and joint pain.

After testing positive for dengue, the platelet count generally begins to drop from the third day. Platelets, which are tiny blood cells produced in the bone marrow, play a crucial role in blood clotting. A low platelet count weakens the body’s ability to fight infections and heal wounds.

Maintaining a stable platelet count is essential for a speedy recovery. Platelets help form blood clots to prevent excessive bleeding in case of an injury. However, once the dengue virus begins attacking platelet levels, a condition called thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) develops. This can lead to slow blood clotting, bleeding gums and nose, bruising, red or purple skin spots, and, in women, prolonged or heavier menstrual cycles.

Fortunately, there are several natural ways to boost platelet levels. Here are some effective remedies:

# Papaya

Both papaya fruit and its leaves have been shown to increase platelet count within days. Papaya is rich in vitamin A, making it a powerful food for platelet production.

How to Use:

- Eat ripe papaya or drink papaya juice with lemon 2-3 times a day.
- Blend fresh papaya leaves, extract the juice, and drink it twice daily.

# Pomegranate

Packed with iron, vitamin C, and antioxidants, pomegranate helps combat low platelet counts.

How to Use:

- Drink freshly prepared pomegranate juice.
- Add pomegranate seeds to salads, smoothies, or breakfast bowls.

# Leafy Greens

Leafy greens are excellent sources of vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting and improving platelet count.

How to Use:

Consume raw spinach, kale, or other greens in salads and sandwiches.

# Pumpkin

Pumpkin, rich in vitamin A, supports platelet development and regulates protein production in cells.

How to Use:

- Drink half a glass of fresh pumpkin juice with a teaspoon of honey.
- Consume 2-3 glasses daily for best results.

# Garlic

Garlic acts as a natural blood purifier and helps boost platelet levels due to its thromboxane A2 content, which promotes platelet binding.

How to Use:

- Incorporate garlic into daily meals.
- Add 2-3 cloves to soups for extra benefits.

# Beans

Beans such as pinto beans, black turtle beans, and cranberry beans are rich in vitamin B9 (folate), which helps increase platelet count.

How to Use:

Boil and consume beans in salads or as a side dish.

# Raisins

High in iron, raisins strengthen the body and help normalize platelet levels.

How to Use:

Eat raisins as a snack, mix them into oatmeal, or sprinkle them on yogurt.

# Carrots

Carrots are not only beneficial for vision but also help maintain and improve platelet count. Studies suggest consuming carrots twice a week can be effective.

How to Use:

Drink carrot juice, add to salads, or prepare carrot soup.

# Sesame Oil

Rich in polyunsaturated fats and vitamin E, sesame oil is known to support platelet production.

How to Use:

Use sesame oil for daily cooking, including deep-frying and shallow frying.

# Lean Protein

Sources of lean protein like turkey, chicken, and fish provide zinc and vitamin B12, which help counteract the effects of thrombocytopenia.

How to Use:

Include lean meats in your diet at least three times a week.

By incorporating these foods into your diet, you can naturally support platelet production and aid in a faster recovery from dengue.