Tried and tested foods that can increase platelet count during Dengue

With Dengue cases proliferating all across the country, India is witnessing a large-scale outbreak of the disease. Even though we can take all types of precautions to prevent the disease, we need to be even more cautious in case we get infected. While Dengue begins with a high fever (102-104 degrees F), which is difficult to manage even with paracetamol, it has a time limit and abates on its own between day 5 and 7. While the mortality rate of the disease is extremely low, it can land people in hospital as Dengue quickly decreases the platelets in the body, which can be quite risky. At the time when the fever does down, the platelet count decreases too. In order to prevent it, you must consume certain food items that can aid your body in producing platelets quickly.

According to celebrity nutrition expert Sandhya Gugnani, "In dengue, platelets become the main concern. To increase the blood platelet counts incorporate plenty of fluids like coconut water, pomegranate, or cranberry juice. Oral -rehydration therapy is best to overcome weakness and bring the fever down. As per various studies, it has been found that juice of the freshly crushed papaya leaves and giloy leaf extract is considered a good home remedy for the treatment of dengue fever. Due to loss of appetite, the diet should be easy to digest, nutritionally dense foods should be taken. To enhance the flavor of food one can add fresh herbs like basil, tulsi, coriander, garlic, ginger, lemon or amchoor."

Here are foods that you must consume if you are suffering from Dengue. (image credits- istock)

Papaya leaves contain a unique phytochemical called acetogenin, which can be an effective remedy for people dealing with Dengue as it ensures a speedy increase in platelet count. Papaya leaves also contain a number of natural plant compounds such as flavonoids and carotenes, that contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. You can make papaya leaf juice easily at home by boiling 4-5 papaya leaves in water to prepare a concoction. Have 1 cup of it morning, evening. (image credits- istock)

According to a study published in the International Journal of Universal Pharmacy and Life Sciences, wheatgrass juice can help in naturally increasing platelet count. You can drink a cup of wheatgrass juice with some lemon in it for maximum benefits. (Image credits- istock)

Raisins too are a rich source of iron and can help Dengue patients who are very low on platelets. Just soak a handful of raisins overnight and eat them in the morning, along with the water in which they were soaked. This remedy is also very effective for anaemic patients who have low haemoglobin levels. (image credits- istock)

Vitamin C is another important nutrient that helps the body in increasing the production of platelets. You can have orange, amla, lemon, bell peppers, as all these fruits and veggies contain high levels of vitamin C, which can help your body during Dengue. (image credits- istock)

Kiwi is one such fruit that is highly recommended during Dengue. It is a rich source of potassium and vitamin C, both of which can boost platelets in the blood. Kiwi can break the cycle of dipping platelets and can also provide a good dose of energy to your body. (image credits- istock)

If your platelet count has dipped to dangerously low levels, then you can try this natural remedy. Just soak 1 tsp fenugreek seeds (methi seeds) in one glass of water overnight. Strain the water the next morning, warm it up a bit and drink it. You can soak the seeds for just 3-4 hours during the day to get it benefits as well.

Since Vitamin K rich foods are highly recommended to boost platelet count, it is best to consume spinach daily in one form or another. Vitamin K also helps in clotting and prevents excessive blood loss from cuts and injuries. You can also have broccoli and cabbage, as they too contain a good amount of vitamin K in them. These green veggies also contain folate which too helps in boosting platelet count and cell growth. Do not eat them raw and have them as part of a soup. (image credits- istock)

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This deep-red coloured vegetable helps in preventing the free radical damage of platelets, which further helps in increasing the number of platelets. If you want to increase your platelet count quickly, then drink beetroot juice daily. You can even add beetroot to your salads and soups. (image credits- istock)

Pomegranate is a must for people suffering from Dengue as it can not only boost platelet count but can also prevent it from dipping further. Pomegranate seeds are not only a power-packed source of iron but also contain antioxidants and immunity-boosting properties. (image credits- istock)