When grappling with dengue fever, platelet levels often plummet drastically. To facilitate a swift recuperation, consider incorporating these nourishing foods into your diet.
When grappling with dengue fever, platelet levels often plummet drastically. To facilitate a swift recuperation, consider incorporating these nourishing foods into your diet.
With the surge in dengue fever cases across the nation, it’s crucial to be aware that while many instances are mild, there’s potential for severe symptoms and complications such as haemorrhagic fever and rapid platelet count decline. Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, play a vital role in clot formation and preventing bleeding. Originating in the bone marrow, they are integral to our blood’s functioning. In the context of dengue fever, platelet counts can plummet from the normal range of 150,000 to 400,000 to a mere 20,000 to 40,000. In certain cases, platelet count restoration may involve blood transfusions. Yet, adopting a diet rich in essential nutrients like iron, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B12, and more, can also contribute significantly to bolstering platelet levels.
“Dengue fever, a viral illness transmitted by mosquitoes, can trigger a critical decline in platelet count, a condition termed thrombocytopenia, which can lead to bleeding complications. Although there isn’t a direct correlation between specific foods and an immediate surge in platelet levels, maintaining a meticulously balanced diet can significantly contribute to overall health and recuperation during and post the experience,” explains Dr. G Sushma, a Clinical Dietician at CARE Hospitals in Banjara Hills, Hyderabad.
Dr. Neeti Sharma, a Senior Consultant in Nutrition and Dietetics at Marengo Asia Hospitals in Gurugram, suggests incorporating certain foods into the diet to expedite recovery. “Papaya leaves, mixed herbs, pomegranate, coconut water, turmeric, fenugreek, orange, and citrus fruits can all aid in swift recovery. Papaya leaves are particularly noteworthy in combating this perilous ailment. They assist in raising platelet counts, which can dangerously plummet in dengue patients. To consume, chop a medium-sized papaya into small pieces, drink the papaya water, and mix the papaya juice with honey and fresh lemon, imbibing it twice a day. Additionally, Giloy, ashwagandha, Tulsi, or aloe vera juice are also beneficial,” Dr. Sharma advises.
