Diagnosing Low MCH
Recognize symptoms. If you believe you may be experiencing low levels of MCH, take some time to notice and catalog your symptoms. Common symptoms of low MCH can include: Fatigue Shortness of breath Bruising easily Pale skin General weakness Dizziness Loss of stamina
Speak to your doctor. If you are experiencing symptoms of low MCH, it is best for you to discuss these with your doctor. Low MCH may be caused by anemia, certain types of cancer, parasites, digestive disorders (such as Crohn's disease or celiac disease), or other conditions. MCH levels may also be affected by certain medications. Be prepared to tell your doctor: What symptoms you have experienced When these symptoms began Your medical history What medications you are currently taking (if any) What you normally eat
Run a complete blood count test. Your doctor will examine you and run a series of tests. The results of these tests will help your doctor to outline the best course of action to treat your low MCH levels. Some of these tests will likely include: a blood test that will examine your MCHC (mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration) levels a mean corpuscular volume (MCV) test to measure the average volume of your red blood cells
Altering Your Diet to Treat Low Blood Iron
Discuss your diet with your doctor. The most common cause of MCH is an iron deficiency anemia, and altering your diet could increase your iron levels. Before you make any drastic changes to your diet or lifestyle, it is a good idea for you to speak to your doctor. Your doctor can help you determine the right amount of iron (and other nutrients) you need and can help you make a health-conscious plan. You don’t need to raise MCH levels if you don’t have an underlying cause, such as anemia.
Increase iron in your diet. The best way to increase your MCH levels is to include more iron-rich foods in your diet. The amount of iron you need each day varies based on your age, sex, and other factors. Refer to this chart at https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iron-Consumer/ to determine the level that's right for you. Iron-rich foods include: Spinach Beans Seafood Red meat and poultry Peas
Make sure you eat enough B-6. In order for your body to properly absorb iron, vitamin B-6 must be present. You can help to improve your MCH levels by making sure that you eat plenty of B-6, alongside iron. Foods high in vitamin B-6 include: Banana Wild tuna (not farm-raised) Chicken breast Salmon Sweet potato Spinach
Increase the amount of fiber in your diet. Fiber is an important part of any diet. For those with low MCH levels, increasing the amount of fiber you eat can help with the absorption of iron in the intestines. Foods high in fiber include: Peas Lentils Black beans Broccoli Brussels sprouts
Taking Supplements
Take iron supplements. If you do not enjoy eating iron-rich foods (or on days when you're just too busy) another option is to take iron supplements. Iron supplements are inexpensive and safe. Avoid taking high-dose iron supplements if you aren’t anemic since too much could damage vital organs.
Beware of side-effects. Unfortunately, iron supplements can have negative side-effects. Some of these are mild, and may go away as your body gets used to the medicine. Other side-effects (though less common) may be serious and should prompt you to seek medical care. Of course, if any side-effect is bothersome, or if you have questions, contact your doctor right away. Side-effects that do not usually need medical attention include: Constipation Diarrhea or vomiting Leg cramps Dark urine Stained teeth Heartburn Side-effects that should prompt medical attention include: Backache or muscle pain Severe nausea or vomiting Metallic taste Dizziness or fainting Pain, numbness, or tingling in hands and feet Fast heartbeat Severe headache Flushed skin Rash or hives Trouble breathing Swelling of mouth and throat
Supplement vitamin B-6. Whether it is consumed in food form or by way of supplements, vitamin B-6 is a necessary companion for iron. Whenever you take iron supplements, pair these with a supplement of vitamin B-6.
Avoid taking too much calcium. If you take calcium supplements, be sure that you do not take more than the recommended daily amount. A surplus of calcium in your system can make it more difficult for your body to absorb iron.
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