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.
# 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.
# 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
# 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.