Platelets are one of the components of blood. Platelets help with clotting and are also responsible to maintain them.

The decrease in platelet count is known as thrombocytopenia. It can be due to infections, dehydration, or a decrease in folic acid. Some people have a lower count of platelet generally as well.

We can overcome thrombocytopenia naturally by keeping a few things in our minds and even avoiding a few things. Make sure to take food rich in vitamins B12, K, C, and D, folate-rich food, and iron-rich food.

Food to consume.

1) Folate acid-rich foods

Folate acid is an essential vitamin B for healthy blood cells. Folic acid is a synthetic form of folate. An adult is suggested to add 400 mIcrograms of folate daily, and a pregnant woman needs 600 micrograms.

One can add any of the following food in their diet-

• Leafy vegetables like spinach or Brussels sprouts

• beef liver

• black-eyed peas

• cereals, dairy alternatives

• rice

• yeast

2) Vitamin B-12 rich foods

Vitamin B-12 is important for red blood cells.

The decrease in Vitamin B-12 can also decrease platelets. 2.4 mcg is the required amount for adult whereas pregnant and lactating women need 2.8 mcg vitamin B-12 daily.

Food to add in the diet are-

• Beef and beef liver

• eggs

• trout, salmon, or tuna

Vegan or vegetarian can go for

• fortified (improved quality) cereals 

• fortified dairy products like almond milk

• Supplements 

3) Vitamin C rich food

Vitamin C is essential for our immune system. Vitamin C helps in absorbing iron as well. Vitamin C destroys by heating so make sure to eat foods rich in vitamin C naturally.

Foods to add in the diet are

• citrus fruits

• kiwi

• strawberries

• Broccoli

4) vitamin K

Vitamin K helps in blood clotting and bone formation.

An adult male requires 120mcg of vitamin K and adult women need 90 mcg of vitamin K

Food rich in Vitamin K are

• Broccoli

• kale, spinach

• soya bean, soya oil 

5) Vitamin D

Vitamin D plays an essential role in bone marrow formation which helps in the formation of platelet cells. Vitamin D also helps in maintaining bones, muscles, and nerves.

Adults need 15 mcg vitamin D daily.

Food rich in Vitamin D are

• egg yolk

• Fatty fish

• omega-3

• fortified milk and yogurt

Vegetarian and vegan can go for-

• Fortified cereals 

• fortified orange juice

• fortified dairy alternatives

• UV- exposed mushrooms

6) Iron-rich food 

Iron is essential for red blood cells and platelets.

Toddlers and teenagers lacking iron in their diet can suffer from anemia.

Foods to be taken as a source of iron are-

• Oysters

• beef liver

• fortified breakfast cereals

• beans 

• tofu

To remember that not to take calcium supplements or food rich in calcium while taking iron-rich food as it will also increase iron level in body leady to iron toxicity.

Foods to avoid.

• alcohol

• artificial sweetness

• cranberries juice and

• Quinine, a substance in bitter lemon and Tonic water