1. Eat: Fresh Fruit and Vegetables
One nutrient that may support platelet production and function is folate. “That’s actually really easy to get as long as you’re eating fruit and vegetables,” explains Hultin, especially if you’re eating leafy green vegetables.
But nearly all fruit and vegetables, Hultin says, contain a variety of nutrients that can help your blood function.
2. Avoid: Concentrated Foods That May Interfere With Clotting
Certain foods, including red grapes, blueberries, garlic, onions, and ginger, may interfere with clotting when eaten in large quantities, notes the PDSA. But in most cases, small amounts of these foods in your diet shouldn’t be a problem, says Hultin.
“If you have low platelets and you eat a little bit of garlic in food, I’d be surprised if that would drastically thin your blood,” Hultin notes. “Where I’d be more worried is a supplemental form, or if you’re using lots of garlic powder. That’s more concentrated than a garlic clove.”
When in doubt, Hultin says, talk to your doctor about any foods you should be avoiding because of your ITP.