Nutrition Diet: Do beets increase platelets? A deep dive into beetroot for blood health

October 4, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the Red Cross, a normal blood platelet count ranges from 150,000 to 450,000 per microliter of blood, and maintaining healthy levels is vital for proper clotting. A common question in nutrition is: do beets increase platelets? While not a direct cure, the rich nutrient profile of beetroot offers significant support for overall blood health and production.

Quick Summary

Beets contribute to blood health through key nutrients like folate and iron, which support the body's natural blood cell production. Their antioxidants also protect existing blood cells from free radical damage.

Key Points

Nutrient-Rich: Beets are a source of folate, iron, and vitamin C, all vital for healthy blood cell production.
Antioxidant Protection: The betalains in beets help protect blood cells, including platelets, from free radical damage.
Supports Hematopoiesis: Studies on beetroot extract show it can stimulate blood-forming processes in the body, which aids in overall blood health.
Not a Direct Cure: Beets should be considered a nutritional support for blood health, not a fast-acting treatment for low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia).
Holistic Approach: The best strategy for maintaining healthy platelets is a balanced diet rich in various nutrients, including those found in beets and other supportive foods like papaya leaf extract and leafy greens.
Modulates Function: Some research indicates that high nitrate intake from beetroot can modulate platelet function by inhibiting aggregation, a different mechanism from increasing their count.

The role of platelets in the body

Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are small, colorless cell fragments in our blood that form clots and stop or prevent bleeding. When you get a cut, platelets clump together and stick to the site of the injury, sealing the wound. A low platelet count, or thrombocytopenia, can hinder this process, leading to excessive bleeding and bruising. While severe cases require medical intervention, dietary choices can play a supportive role in managing mild deficiencies and promoting overall blood health.

The nutritional profile of beets

Beetroot is a nutrient-dense vegetable packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are crucial for blood production. Here is a breakdown of its key components:

Folate (Vitamin B9): A vital B vitamin, folate is essential for cell growth and replication, including the formation of blood cells in the bone marrow. A folate deficiency can lead to a low platelet count.
Iron: This mineral is a crucial component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. While more known for its role in preventing anemia, sufficient iron is also important for the production of healthy blood cells, including platelets.
Antioxidants: The deep red color of beets comes from powerful antioxidants called betalains. These compounds protect blood cells from damage caused by free radicals, potentially extending the lifespan of platelets.
Vitamin C: Beets contain vitamin C, which is essential for the immune system and also aids in the absorption of iron.

The scientific evidence: Does beetroot directly increase platelets?

While many anecdotal reports suggest that drinking beetroot juice can quickly raise platelet counts, the scientific picture is more nuanced. The evidence points to beetroot's supportive role in overall hematopoietic (blood-forming) processes rather than an instant, direct boost for platelets. Some studies have also investigated the anti-platelet properties of beetroot, specifically its effect on aggregation. This can seem contradictory, but the key is context:

Support for Hematopoiesis: Research has shown that beetroot extracts can have a "hematopoietic potential," meaning they help with the formation of blood cells, which is a promising finding for addressing conditions like thrombocytopenia. The rich folate and iron content directly feeds the bone marrow's production process.
Modulation of Platelet Function: Some studies, often looking at high doses of nitrate-rich beetroot juice, have observed an attenuation of platelet aggregation (clumping), especially in men. This is due to the conversion of dietary nitrates to nitric oxide, which can have vasoprotective effects and modulate platelet activity. This is not the same as increasing the number of platelets, but rather influencing their function.
Protection from Damage: The antioxidant activity of betalains helps protect platelets from oxidative stress. By reducing damage from free radicals, beets may contribute to maintaining a stable platelet count over time, rather than a rapid increase.

Therefore, a diet rich in beets and other blood-supportive foods is best viewed as a long-term strategy for maintaining healthy blood parameters, not a substitute for medical treatment in severe cases of thrombocytopenia.

Other foods to boost platelet count

Incorporating a variety of nutrient-rich foods is key for promoting healthy platelet levels. Here are some other dietary options to consider, alongside beets:

Papaya Leaf Extract: This is a well-known remedy, especially in cases of dengue fever. Studies have shown papaya leaf extract can significantly increase platelet counts.
Pomegranate: Rich in iron and antioxidants, pomegranate supports healthy blood circulation and platelet production.
Pumpkin: Contains Vitamin A, which supports platelet production in the bone marrow.
Green Leafy Vegetables: Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens are packed with Vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting.
Vitamin B12 Sources: Foods like beef, fish, eggs, and dairy are crucial for producing healthy blood cells. Vitamin B12 deficiency can contribute to low platelet counts.

Comparison table: Beets vs. Papaya Leaf for Platelet Support


Feature	Beetroot	Papaya Leaf Extract
Mechanism	Supports overall blood cell production through iron and folate; protects platelets via antioxidants.	Directly stimulates platelet production; often used during infections like dengue.
Key Nutrients	Folate, Iron, Vitamin C, Betalains (antioxidants).	Enzymes and phytochemicals that promote platelet synthesis.
Research	Extensive research on overall blood health and antioxidant effects. Some studies show modest hematopoietic benefits.	Strong anecdotal evidence and some clinical studies show significant increases, especially in dengue patients.
Best Used For	General, long-term blood health maintenance and support.	Targeted, short-term use, especially during viral fevers.
Typical Form	Juice, roasted, salads, powder.	Juice from crushed leaves or a concentrated capsule/supplement.

How to incorporate beets into your diet

Integrating beets into your daily meals is simple and delicious. Here are a few ideas:

Beetroot Juice: A popular and effective way to consume beets, often mixed with other fruits like oranges or pomegranates to improve flavor and boost vitamin C intake.
Roasted Beets: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of beets. Toss cubes with olive oil and herbs for a simple side dish.
Beetroot Salad: Grate raw beets into a salad for a crunchy texture and vibrant color. Combine with feta, nuts, and leafy greens for a nutrient-packed meal.
Beet Hummus: Blend cooked beets with chickpeas, tahini, and lemon juice for a colorful and nutrient-rich dip.
Soup: Beetroot soup, or borscht, is a classic way to enjoy the vegetable, often incorporating other blood-building ingredients.

Conclusion: A valuable, but indirect, ally

So, do beets increase platelets? While they are not a medical treatment for severely low platelet counts, the answer is a qualified yes, but in a supportive rather than direct capacity. By providing essential nutrients like folate, iron, and powerful antioxidants, beets can help support the body's natural blood cell production and protect existing platelets from damage. For those with consistently low platelet counts, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional. For those looking to support their general blood health, incorporating beets into a balanced diet is a delicious and evidence-supported strategy.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, you should not rely on beetroot juice as a sole treatment. While its nutrients support blood health, severe thrombocytopenia requires medical evaluation and professional treatment. Consult your doctor for a proper diagnosis and management plan.

There is no standardized dosage, and results vary. Some anecdotal reports mention drinking a glass of beetroot juice daily. A balanced diet including a variety of nutrient-rich foods is generally recommended over a single concentrated source.

Consuming large amounts of beetroot can cause your urine and stools to turn a reddish or pinkish color, a harmless condition called beeturia. For some, very high consumption might impact blood sugar, so consult a doctor if you have diabetes.

Other foods known to help include papaya leaf extract, pomegranate, pumpkin, green leafy vegetables (for vitamin K), and foods rich in vitamin B12 (e.g., meat, dairy, eggs) and vitamin C (e.g., citrus fruits, broccoli).

Yes, cooking can impact the nutritional content of beetroot. Dietary nitrates are water-soluble, so boiling can reduce their levels. Roasting or steaming preserves more of the beneficial compounds.

Dietary changes generally have a gradual effect on blood health, and it can take weeks or months to see potential improvements. The best approach is consistent, long-term healthy eating.

Some studies, particularly on the effects of high-nitrate beetroot juice, have observed anti-platelet aggregation effects, meaning it can make platelets less sticky. This highlights the need for balanced consumption and medical advice, especially if you are on blood thinners.