The relationship between what we eat and how we feel

One of the things I remember most vividly about having immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) as a child is tiredness. It wasn’t simply being ready for bed after a busy day, but a heavy, lethargic feeling where everything seemed to require a little more effort. Fatigue can be a difficult symptom because, unlike a bruise or a purple rash, nobody else can see it.

Although I’ve been free from ITP for over 15 years now, I’ve become increasingly interested in the relationship between what we eat and how we feel. This has made me wonder: When you are already dealing with fatigue, could certain foods make that sluggish feeling even worse?

Firstly, it’s important to say there isn’t a recognized diet that can cure ITP, and food shouldn’t replace medical treatment. Individual foods also aren’t generally considered a direct cause of ITP symptoms. But diet can certainly influence our energy levels and overall well-being, and it’s something I always try to improve and learn more about.

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One of the biggest things I notice personally is the difference between eating something that keeps me satisfied and energized and something that gives me a quick burst of energy followed by a slump. For example, one doughnut can make me really high on energy for an hour, but an hour later, the crash is horrendous. If I ate the same number of calories in a tuna salad, my energy levels don’t peak.

Foods high in added sugar and refined carbohydrates can cause blood glucose to rise quickly and then fall again. Think sugary cereals, sweets, cakes, biscuits, pastries, or highly refined white bread. That fluctuation can leave some people feeling tired, hungry, or lacking in concentration afterward. I, for one, really struggle after eating white bread.

It doesn’t mean these foods need to be completely banned. I’m a firm believer that you should enjoy food, too. But combining carbohydrates with protein, healthy fats, and fiber can help create a more balanced meal and provide steadier energy.

Protein is something I’ve become much more conscious of as an adult. Eggs, Greek yogurt, chicken, fish, beans, lentils, tofu, and nuts are all useful sources, and foods that are always in my fridge every week. Rather than grabbing something sugary when I’m hungry, I find that a meal or snack with protein generally keeps me satisfied longer. Boiled eggs are my best friends.

Hydration is another surprisingly simple consideration. Even mild dehydration can contribute to tiredness, headaches, and poor concentration. When you’re already fatigued, forgetting to drink enough water can add another layer. I have a Stanley bottle that helps me stay hydrated throughout the day.

Iron, vitamin B12, and folate are also important nutrients involved in healthy blood and energy metabolism. Sources include meat, fish, eggs, leafy green vegetables, pulses, and fortified foods. However, I wouldn’t recommend taking supplements mindlessly. If fatigue is persistent or noticeably worse than usual, it’s worth speaking to your medical team, who can investigate whether a deficiency or another underlying cause could be contributing.

There are also some ITP-specific considerations with diet and supplements. People with low platelet counts or an increased bleeding risk should speak to their healthcare team before taking supplements or making significant dietary changes. Some supplements and herbal products can affect platelet function or blood clotting, or interact with medication. “Natural” doesn’t automatically mean risk-free.

Alcohol is another consideration because excessive consumption can affect platelet production and function, as well as disrupting sleep, something that certainly isn’t helpful when you’re already struggling with fatigue. My personal choice is to not touch alcohol, other than perhaps one or two drinks while on a trip. I’ve found that alcohol can be a little hard for my body to digest.

Perhaps the biggest lesson I’ve learned is that you don’t need a perfect “ITP diet.” Instead, it is about noticing patterns.

Do I feel exhausted after skipping breakfast? Do certain lunches leave me desperate for an afternoon nap? Have I actually drunk enough water today? Am I eating enough protein, fruit, vegetables, and iron-rich foods?

Living with or recovering from a health condition can make you very aware of your body. Sometimes that awareness can feel overwhelming, but it can also teach us to listen.

Food might not be able to cure ITP, but giving our bodies the nutrition and energy they need is one small part of looking after ourselves. And when fatigue strikes, sometimes those small things can make a meaningful difference.

Note: Bleeding Disorders News is strictly a news and information website about the syndrome. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Bleeding Disorders News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to bleeding disorders.