When I was walking through my own journey with low platelets, I spent a lot of time asking, “What should I take?”
But over time, I began to ask a better question:
“What foods help support platelets naturally—and how can I nourish my body so it can function the way it was designed to?”
One of the most powerful shifts I made was focusing on anti-inflammatory foods that support the immune system, rather than constantly searching for the next quick fix.
Inflammation plays a significant role in autoimmune conditions like ITP (Immune Thrombocytopenia). When the body is inflamed, the immune system can become unbalanced and begin attacking its own platelets. But when we consistently choose foods that reduce inflammation and support whole-body health, we create an environment where healing becomes more possible.
If you’re wondering what to eat to support platelet count naturally, here are five simple, nourishing foods to start with.
1. Berries (Especially Goji Berries)
Berries are rich in antioxidants, which help protect your cells—including platelets—from oxidative stress and damage.
Goji berries have been traditionally used to support:
- Immune system balance
- Blood health
- Liver function (important for detoxification and overall wellness)
Other berries like blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are high in vitamin C, which supports blood vessel health and helps the body absorb iron more effectively.
Why this matters for platelets:
Reducing oxidative stress and supporting the immune system may help protect platelets from unnecessary destruction.
Reducing oxidative stress and supporting the immune system may help protect platelets from unnecessary destruction.
👉 Simple idea: Add berries to smoothies, oatmeal, or enjoy goji berries as a daily snack.
2. Leafy Greens
Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are packed with nutrients that support overall blood health.
They contain:
- Vitamin K (supports normal blood clotting)
- Folate (important for blood cell production)
- Magnesium (helps regulate inflammation)
Why this matters for platelet count:
These nutrients help support the body’s ability to maintain healthy blood function and reduce inflammation—both important for those with low platelets.
👉 Simple idea: Add greens to salads, smoothies, or sauté with garlic and olive oil.
3. Lentils
Lentils are a nourishing source of:
- Plant-based iron
- Folate
- Protein
Iron supports healthy blood, and folate plays a key role in the production of blood cells.
Why this matters for platelets:
While platelets are different from red blood cells, your body still needs the right building blocks to support overall blood health and function.
While platelets are different from red blood cells, your body still needs the right building blocks to support overall blood health and function.
👉 Simple idea: Use lentils in soups, stews, or simple grain bowls.
4. Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are rich in vitamin C.
Vitamin C helps:
- Support immune function
- Strengthen blood vessels
- Improve iron absorption
- Reduce inflammation
Why this matters for low platelet count:
Supporting the immune system and reducing inflammation can help create a more balanced internal environment.
👉 Simple idea: Start your day with lemon water or add citrus to salads and dressings.
5. Omega-3 Rich Foods (Like Salmon)
Omega-3 fatty acids are known for their powerful anti-inflammatory effects.
You can find them in:
- Wild-caught salmon
- Sardines
- Chia seeds
- Flaxseeds
Why this matters for ITP and platelets:
Lowering inflammation may help calm an overactive immune response, which is key in autoimmune conditions like ITP.
👉 Simple idea: Aim to include omega-3 rich foods a few times per week.
Conclusion: Small Steps Toward Healing
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this:
Healing doesn’t come from one perfect decision—but from consistent, nourishing choices over time.
Healing doesn’t come from one perfect decision—but from consistent, nourishing choices over time.
If you’re trying to increase platelets naturally, start simple. Choose one or two of these foods and begin incorporating them into your daily routine.
As you do, you’re not just “eating healthy”—you’re supporting your body, reducing inflammation, and creating space for healing.
If you’d like to know exactly what I do, it's the 14-day reset that focuses on anti-inflammatory foods, and simple daily habits.
You're always welcome to join me, but no matter where you begin, know this:
Your body is not working against you. With the right support, it can begin to heal.
Your body is not working against you. With the right support, it can begin to heal.
Daily Habits That Support Natural Immune Health Without a Spleen
For years, getting sick felt terrifying.
As someone living without a spleen, I’ve learned how important it is to focus on natural immune support without a spleen through simple, daily habits.
I lost my spleen due to autoimmune ITP. Like many others, I was told that without a spleen, I would be considered “immunocompromised” and more vulnerable to illness.
And for a while, that felt very true.
I seemed to catch everything that went around. Every cold lingered. Every illness felt bigger than it should.
But over time, something unexpected happened.
I stopped getting sick all the time.
Today, I can honestly say I have one of the strongest, most resilient immune systems of anyone I know.
Not because I never get exposed…
Not because I live in a bubble…
Not because I live in a bubble…
But because I began consistently supporting my body in simple, intentional ways.
And these same habits?
They’ve also played a role in helping me maintain a place of stability and wellness in my ITP journey.
They’ve also played a role in helping me maintain a place of stability and wellness in my ITP journey.
This post is for you if:
- You’re living with ITP and want natural ways to support your body
- You’ve had a splenectomy for any reason and want to strengthen your immune system naturally
How can I support my immune system naturally without a spleen?
Supporting your immune system naturally without a spleen includes:
- Eating whole, nutrient-dense foods to help reduce inflammation
- Managing stress through daily habits like rest, prayer, and quiet time
- Supporting gut and liver health
- Reducing exposure to toxins in your home and personal care products
- Using supportive tools like essential oils and targeted supplements
These consistent daily habits help create a strong foundation so your body can respond well during times of stress or illness.
What It Means to Live Without a Spleen (And Why It Can Feel Scary)
The spleen plays a role in supporting the body’s response to certain infections.
So when it’s removed—whether due to ITP, injury, or another condition—it’s common to feel:
- More vulnerable to illness
- More anxious about getting sick
- Unsure how to best support your body moving forward
I remember that feeling well.
But what I’ve learned over the years is this:
👉 While we can’t control everything…
👉 We can support how our body responds
👉 We can support how our body responds
The Shift: From Fear to Supporting My Body Daily
There was a time when I felt like my body was working against me.
Now, I see things differently.
Instead of focusing on fear, I began focusing on daily support—creating an environment where my body could function well, recover well, and stay balanced.
And over time, that consistency changed everything.
The Daily Habits That Strengthened My Immune System
These are the foundational habits I rely on every day—whether I feel great or feel run down.
1. Reducing Inflammation Through Nutrition
I began focusing on foods that nourish instead of deplete.
This includes:
- Whole, simple ingredients
- Reducing processed foods and sugar
- Choosing meals that support overall wellness
This isn’t about restriction—it’s about support.
2. Lowering My Daily Toxic Load
This was one of the biggest turning points for me.
I didn’t realize how much everyday exposure (cleaners, personal care, fragrances) could add stress to the body.
By making simple swaps, I helped:
- Reduce unnecessary burden
- Create a cleaner, more supportive home environment
3. Supporting Gut and Liver Function
These systems are closely connected to overall wellness.
When I began supporting them more intentionally, I noticed:
- Better resilience
- More balance in my body
- Greater overall balance
4. Managing Stress Consistently
Stress doesn’t just affect how we feel—it affects how our body functions.
For me, this looks like:
- Prayer and quiet time
- Slowing down when needed
- Creating space to rest mentally and emotionally
5. Using Targeted Supplements
I use supplements to support my body—not replace the basics.
They help fill in gaps and provide extra support during times when my body needs it most.
Supplements are not one-size-fits-all, but focusing on antioxidants has been important for me.
6. Daily Essential Oil Support
Essential oils have become part of my daily rhythm.
I use them to support:
- Immune health
- Emotional balance
- Respiratory wellness (when my lungs or sinuses need extra support)
When I Feel Something Coming On: My Go-To Support Routine
I used to panic at the first sign of illness.
Now, I respond with support.
Immune Support
When I feel run down, I often increase:
- Vitamin C
- Antioxidants
- Oil-infused supplements featuring:
- Cinnamon
- Clove
- Lemon
- Oregano
- Thyme
- Rosemary
- Lemongrass
- Eucalyptus
Respiratory Support (Especially Important Without a Spleen)
Supporting my respiratory system has become a priority.
I turn to:
- Essential oils like eucalyptus, peppermint, tea tree, and ravintsara
- Raindrop Technique to support the body and overall wellness
- Simple acupressure points that support comfortable breathing
The Most Important (and Most Overlooked) Step
- Warm fluids like tea
- Hydration
- Rest—even when I start to feel better
A Thoughtful Note on Antibiotics and Immune Support
This is something I’ve been asked about often—especially in the splenectomy community.
Many people without a spleen are encouraged to take antibiotics regularly as a preventative measure. This is something you should always discuss with your healthcare provider, as every situation is unique.
For me personally, I’ve taken a different approach. Because a large portion of the immune system is connected to the gut, I’ve been intentional about supporting my body in ways that help maintain overall balance.
In my own journey, I’ve chosen to reserve antibiotics for times when they are truly needed for bacterial infections.
As I’ve focused on strengthening my body through daily habits—nutrition, reducing toxins, stress support, and immune-supportive tools—
I’ve found that my need for antibiotics has become far less frequent. This isn’t about telling anyone what they should do—but simply sharing what has worked for me, and what has allowed me to feel more confident and supported in my day-to-day life.
A Note for Those Living With ITP
If you’re walking through ITP, I want to gently share this:
The habits that support your overall health also support your body’s ability to stay balanced.
Can natural approaches support overall wellness for those living with ITP?
Natural approaches can play a supportive role in overall wellness for those living with ITP by helping the body stay balanced.
Many people focus on:
- Reducing inflammation through nutrition
- Supporting the gut and liver
- Managing stress consistently
- Creating healthy daily habits that support the body as a whole
While every journey is different, these foundational habits can be a meaningful part of a long-term wellness routine. I have been in remission from ITP for 20 years with all of the healthy habits I have mentioned.
You Are Not Powerless
Whether you:
- Still have your spleen
- No longer have a spleen
- Are navigating ITP
- Or are simply trying to stay well
There are things you can do.
You don’t have to live in fear of every illness.
You can:
- Support your body daily
- Build resilience over time
- Walk through seasons of sickness with more confidence and peace
If You Want Support Getting Started
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to begin, you’re not alone.
I love helping others learn simple, natural ways to support their bodies—especially when it comes to:
- Essential oils for immune and respiratory support
- Reducing stress in practical, doable ways
- Building healthy habits that actually stick
If that’s something you’re looking for, feel free to:
💛 Reach out to me directly
💛 Ask a question
💛 Or share what you’re currently struggling with
💛 Reach out to me directly
💛 Ask a question
💛 Or share what you’re currently struggling with
I’m always happy to help guide you in a way that feels simple and realistic for your life.
Frequently Asked Questions About ITP, Splenectomy, and Immune Support
Can you live a healthy life without a spleen?
Yes—many people live full, healthy lives without a spleen.
While the spleen does play a role in supporting the body’s response to infection, there are many ways to support your overall health and build resilience through daily habits, nutrition, and lifestyle choices.
How can I support my immune system without a spleen naturally?
Supporting your body naturally often comes down to consistency.
Some of the most impactful areas include:
- Reducing inflammation through nutrition
- Lowering your exposure to toxins
- Supporting gut and liver health
- Managing stress
- Using supportive tools like essential oils and targeted supplements
These simple habits, practiced daily, can make a meaningful difference over time.
Is it normal to feel more anxious about getting sick after a splenectomy?
Absolutely.
Many people feel increased fear or uncertainty after losing their spleen—especially when it comes to illness.
You’re not alone in that.
But over time, as you build supportive routines and learn what works for your body, that fear can shift into confidence.
What helps support the immune system when you feel like you’re getting sick?
When you feel something coming on, it can help to:
- Increase rest and hydration
- Support your body with nutrients like vitamin C and antioxidants
- Use supportive wellness tools like herbal teas or essential oils
- Slow down and give your body time to recover
The goal is to support your body early and consistently. Don't wait until you're feeling terrible to start supporting your body!
Can natural approaches help with ITP?
Natural approaches can support overall wellness for those living with ITP by focusing on habits like nutrition, stress management, and supporting the body’s natural balance. While each person’s experience is unique, many find these habits helpful as part of their daily routine.
Where should I start if I feel overwhelmed?
Start simple.
You don’t have to change everything at once.
Choose one area:
- Swap out a few products in your home
- Add one nourishing meal per day
- Begin a simple stress-reducing practice
- Learn one or two essential oils to support your body
Small, consistent steps lead to lasting change.
