Which food increases platelets count? Your guide to natural remedies

January 9, 2026 •

4 min read

According to the National Institutes of Health, a healthy adult's platelet count typically ranges from 150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter of blood. Incorporating certain nutrient-rich foods can be a helpful and natural strategy to answer the question: which food increases platelets count?.

Quick Summary

This guide provides an overview of nutrient-rich foods that can support platelet production. It details the key vitamins and minerals involved, including folate, vitamin B12, vitamin C, and iron. Specific foods and botanical extracts, such as papaya leaf extract and wheatgrass, are traditionally and clinically studied for their potential benefits in naturally boosting platelet levels.

Key Points

Folate and B12 are crucial: Deficiencies in folate and vitamin B12 can contribute to a low platelet count by impeding healthy blood cell production.
Papaya leaf extract is noteworthy: Clinical studies, especially concerning dengue fever, have shown that papaya leaf extract can significantly help increase platelet levels.
Iron-rich foods are essential: Foods high in iron, such as pomegranate and lentils, help boost platelet count, particularly for those with iron-deficiency anemia.
Vitamin K and C play key roles: Vitamin K, found in leafy greens, is vital for blood clotting, while Vitamin C aids in iron absorption and enhances platelet function.
Avoid certain substances: Alcohol, quinine (in tonic water), and some artificial sweeteners can negatively impact platelet production and should be limited or avoided.
Consult a healthcare professional: Dietary changes and supplements are complementary therapies and should always be discussed with a doctor, especially for severe thrombocytopenia.

Understanding the Role of Key Nutrients

Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are vital for blood clotting and preventing excessive bleeding after an injury. While medical intervention is necessary for severe thrombocytopenia (low platelet count), dietary changes can be a supportive measure. The production and health of platelets rely heavily on specific nutrients.

Essential Vitamins and Minerals

Folate (Vitamin B9): This vitamin is crucial for healthy blood cell division and production. A deficiency can contribute to low platelet counts.
Vitamin B12: Found primarily in animal-based products, Vitamin B12 is essential for maintaining healthy blood cells. Low levels have been linked to low platelet counts.
Vitamin C: An antioxidant that supports the body's immune system, Vitamin C is also important for proper platelet function and enhances the absorption of iron.
Iron: A vital component for producing healthy red blood cells and platelets, iron deficiency anemia can lead to a drop in platelet count.
Vitamin K: This fat-soluble vitamin plays a critical role in blood clotting. Foods rich in Vitamin K, such as leafy greens, can help maintain proper platelet function.

Foods to Increase Platelets Count

Incorporating specific foods rich in the above nutrients can help support the body’s ability to produce platelets. Here are some of the most effective options:

Papaya and Papaya Leaf Extract: Known for its use in treating dengue fever, papaya leaf extract has shown promising results in stimulating megakaryocytes, the precursor cells for platelets. Both the fruit and the leaf extract are highly regarded.
Pomegranate: Rich in iron and antioxidants, pomegranate can improve blood health and boost the immune system, which helps fight infections that may cause low platelet counts.
Pumpkin: High in Vitamin A, pumpkin helps support the production of platelets in the bone marrow. The seeds are also a great source of iron.
Green Leafy Vegetables: Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens are packed with Vitamin K and folate, both essential for platelet production and blood clotting.
Wheatgrass: The high chlorophyll content in wheatgrass has a molecular structure similar to hemoglobin and may help increase total blood cell counts, including platelets.
Lean Meats and Fish: Beef liver, clams, salmon, and tuna are excellent sources of Vitamin B12 and iron, which are crucial for healthy blood cells.
Berries: Rich in antioxidants, strawberries, blueberries, and other berries help protect blood cells from damage.
Indian Gooseberry (Amla): This superfood is loaded with Vitamin C and antioxidants that help improve overall blood health.

Comparison of Platelet-Boosting Foods

To make informed dietary choices, here is a comparative table of foods known to help increase platelet count, highlighting their key nutrients.


Food/Extract	Key Nutrients	Benefits	Best For	Considerations
Papaya Leaf Extract	Alkaloids, Flavonoids	Stimulates megakaryocyte production. Clinically studied for dengue fever.	Quick action during viral fevers.	Consult a doctor for proper dosage.
Pomegranate	Iron, Antioxidants, Vitamin C	Supports blood count and fights infection.	Long-term blood health and immunity.	Can be consumed as juice or seeds.
Leafy Greens (Spinach, Kale)	Vitamin K, Folate	Essential for blood clotting and cell formation.	Daily dietary intake for overall blood health.	Best consumed raw or lightly cooked to preserve nutrients.
Beef Liver / Clams	Vitamin B12, Iron	Directly supports red blood cell and platelet production.	Addressing B12 or iron deficiency.	High in certain vitamins; moderation is key.
Citrus Fruits (Oranges, Kiwi)	Vitamin C	Enhances iron absorption and improves platelet function.	Boosting general immune function.	Best consumed fresh to retain Vitamin C.
Wheatgrass	Chlorophyll, Iron, Vitamins	Stimulates overall blood cell production due to its molecular similarity to hemoglobin.	Overall blood cell support.	Best consumed as fresh juice.

Foods to Avoid with Low Platelets

Just as certain foods can help, some substances can hinder platelet production and function. It is often recommended to limit or avoid:

Alcohol: Heavy or excessive alcohol consumption can suppress bone marrow activity and lower platelet production.
Quinine: Found in tonic water, quinine has been linked to drug-induced thrombocytopenia.
Cranberry Juice: Some studies suggest it can interfere with platelet production or function.
Artificial Sweeteners: Aspartame, in particular, is sometimes associated with lower platelet counts.
Saturated and Trans Fats: High intake of these can increase inflammation and may interfere with platelet production.

Natural Remedies and Complementary Treatments

Besides dietary changes, other natural and lifestyle factors can play a role in managing low platelet counts. These should always be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Supplements and Extracts

Papaya Leaf Extract: Widely used, particularly in cases of dengue fever, available in capsule or liquid form. Studies show it can increase platelet counts.
Bovine Colostrum: Some individuals report improvements, although clinical research is limited. It contains proteins involved in platelet activation and immune response.
Chlorophyll: As mentioned with wheatgrass, supplements rich in chlorophyll may help, though evidence is not conclusive.

Lifestyle Adjustments

Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration keeps blood healthy and supports overall circulation.
Prioritize Rest: Adequate rest and managing stress are vital for recovery and regeneration of blood cells.
Exercise Moderately: Light physical activity can support overall blood health.

For more in-depth information on the use of papaya leaf extract, including detailed mechanisms, you can refer to review articles available on PubMed Central: Delving into the Therapeutic Potential of Carica papaya Leaf against Thrombocytopenia and Allied Disorders

Conclusion

While addressing the underlying medical cause is paramount, a well-rounded and nutrient-rich diet can be a powerful tool for supporting healthy platelet levels. Incorporating foods rich in folate, Vitamin B12, Vitamin C, and iron—such as papaya, pomegranate, leafy greens, and lean meats—can help. Conversely, limiting alcohol and certain artificial ingredients is advisable. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before making significant dietary changes or starting any new supplements, as their guidance is essential for managing thrombocytopenia safely and effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

While no food provides an instant fix, some options are known for their quicker effects. Papaya leaf extract, in particular, is frequently cited for its ability to increase platelet counts relatively quickly, especially in cases of viral fevers like dengue. Other nutrient-rich foods should be part of a consistent, balanced diet.

Yes, pomegranate is a great source of iron and antioxidants. It supports overall blood health and immunity, which can indirectly help raise platelet levels, especially in cases where a low count is related to iron deficiency.

Yes, leafy green vegetables like spinach and kale are highly beneficial. They are rich in Vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting, and folate, which is necessary for the production of healthy blood cells, including platelets.

Vitamin B12 is vital for keeping blood cells healthy, and a deficiency can lead to low platelet counts. Folate (Vitamin B9) is necessary for cell division and the production of new blood cells, including platelets.

Certain foods and substances can hinder platelet production and should be limited. These include alcohol, quinine (in tonic water), cranberry juice, and some artificial sweeteners like aspartame. Always consult your doctor for personalized advice.

Beyond diet, other supportive measures include ensuring you get adequate rest, staying well-hydrated, and engaging in light, non-strenuous exercise. Avoiding toxins like pesticides and certain medications, and discussing any supplements with a doctor, is also recommended.

Both the papaya fruit and its leaf extract are known for their potential to increase platelet count. While the fruit offers a good source of vitamins, studies, particularly in dengue patients, have focused on the extract derived from the leaves due to its higher concentration of beneficial compounds.