Drinking sufficient water may contribute to lowering platelet activity and concentration. This is supported by research indicating that water intake can decrease platelet activation and the concentration of hs-CRP (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein), a marker of inflammation often associated with increased platelet activity. [See reference 1 & 2]. One study even showed that drinking 400 mL of water before bed significantly reduced platelet activity in at-risk patients the following morning. [See reference 2].
However, it's crucial to understand that drinking water itself doesn't directly cause a dangerously low platelet count (thrombocytopenia). Thrombocytopenia has many causes, including certain medications, autoimmune diseases, and infections. [See reference 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10]. While adequate hydration is beneficial for overall health and may indirectly influence platelet activity, it shouldn't be considered a treatment for low platelet counts. If you have concerns about your platelet levels, consult a doctor. [See reference 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10]. Conversely, certain beverages, such as those containing quinine (like tonic water), can lower platelet counts, but this is due to the quinine content, not the water itself. [See reference 6, 10].
Key Points:
- Hydration is important: Adequate water intake is crucial for overall health and may positively influence platelet activity.
- Water doesn't directly cause low platelets: Low platelet counts result from various underlying medical conditions.
- Consult a doctor: If you have concerns about your platelet levels, seek medical advice.
- Beware of quinine: Beverages with quinine can negatively impact platelet counts.
References:
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Changes in the Blood Components Caused by Water Intake. https://www.kjcls.org/journal/view.html?doi=10.15324/kjcls.2017.49.3.227 (Snippet: In conclusion, a steady and sufficient water intake may contribute to alleviate anemia by increasing hemoglobin. Additionally, it may decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease by decreasing platelet activation and concentration of hs-CRP.)
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Water Intake Before Bed Decreases the Morning Platelet Activity in ... https://researchopenworld.com/water-intake-before-bed-decreases-the-morning-platelet-activity-in-at-risk-patients/ (Snippet: The implication is that intake of 400 mL of water before bed in at-risk patients will significantly reduce platelet activity as a major risk…)
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Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) | Canadian Cancer Society. https://cancer.ca/en/treatments/side-effects/low-platelet-count
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Thrombocytopenia: Symptoms, Stages & Treatment. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14430-thrombocytopenia
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How your body replaces blood - NHS Blood Donation. [/the-donation-process/after-your-donation/how-your-body-replaces-blood/]
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Immune thrombocytopenia associated with consumption of tonic water. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4365124/
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Empowering ITP Patients ... - Platelet Disorder Support Association. https://www.pdsa.org/diet-lifestyle.html
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Tips For A Successful Blood Donation | Red Cross Blood Services. https://www.redcrossblood.org/donate-blood/blood-donation-process/before-during-after.html
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Natural Treatment for Low Platelets: Foods to Eat and Avoid. https://www.verywellhealth.com/foods-to-eat-and-avoid-with-itp-5206758
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Calvin's Story. https://ouhsc.edu/platelets/ditp/calvin.html
