How to Increase MCH Levels

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

MCH (or mean corpuscular hemoglobin) refers to the average mass of hemoglobin in your red blood cells. Most often, low MCH levels are the result of iron deficiency and/or anemia, meaning the best ways to increase MCH levels are to alter your diet and supplement regimen. In some rare cases, low MCH may be caused by more serious conditions and should be diagnosed by a doctor.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Diagnosing Low MCH

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c8\/Control-Your-Urge-to-Masturbate-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Control-Your-Urge-to-Masturbate-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c8\/Control-Your-Urge-to-Masturbate-Step-5.jpg\/aid8783265-v4-728px-Control-Your-Urge-to-Masturbate-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you believe you may be experiencing low levels of MCH, take some time to notice and catalog your symptoms. [1] Common symptoms of low MCH can include:
    • Fatigue
    • Shortness of breath
    • Bruising easily
    • Pale skin
    • General weakness
    • Dizziness
    • Loss of stamina
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/ba\/Recognize-and-Treat-Cytomegalovirus-%28CMV%29-Step-18.jpg\/v4-460px-Recognize-and-Treat-Cytomegalovirus-%28CMV%29-Step-18.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/ba\/Recognize-and-Treat-Cytomegalovirus-%28CMV%29-Step-18.jpg\/aid8783265-v4-728px-Recognize-and-Treat-Cytomegalovirus-%28CMV%29-Step-18.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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. [2] 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
    Advertisement
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9d\/Avoid-Legionella-Step-9-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Avoid-Legionella-Step-9-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/9d\/Avoid-Legionella-Step-9-Version-2.jpg\/aid8783265-v4-728px-Avoid-Legionella-Step-9-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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. [3] 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
    4. Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Altering Your Diet to Treat Low Blood Iron

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/4e\/Choose-Kitchen-Gadgets-That-Encourage-Weight-Loss-Step-12.jpg\/v4-460px-Choose-Kitchen-Gadgets-That-Encourage-Weight-Loss-Step-12.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/4e\/Choose-Kitchen-Gadgets-That-Encourage-Weight-Loss-Step-12.jpg\/aid8783265-v4-728px-Choose-Kitchen-Gadgets-That-Encourage-Weight-Loss-Step-12.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0f\/Include-Trehalose-in-Your-Diet-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Include-Trehalose-in-Your-Diet-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/0f\/Include-Trehalose-in-Your-Diet-Step-7.jpg\/aid8783265-v4-728px-Include-Trehalose-in-Your-Diet-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/42\/Treat-IBS-Symptoms-with-Diet-Step-13-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Treat-IBS-Symptoms-with-Diet-Step-13-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/42\/Treat-IBS-Symptoms-with-Diet-Step-13-Version-2.jpg\/aid8783265-v4-728px-Treat-IBS-Symptoms-with-Diet-Step-13-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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. [4] Foods high in vitamin B-6 include:
    • Banana
    • Wild tuna (not farm-raised)
    • Chicken breast
    • Salmon
    • Sweet potato
    • Spinach
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/61\/Jump-Start-the-Atkins-Diet-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Jump-Start-the-Atkins-Diet-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/61\/Jump-Start-the-Atkins-Diet-Step-7.jpg\/aid8783265-v4-728px-Jump-Start-the-Atkins-Diet-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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. [5] Foods high in fiber include:
    • Peas
    • Lentils
    • Black beans
    • Broccoli
    • Brussels sprouts
    5. Advertisement
Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Taking Supplements

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c1\/Choose-an-Iron-Supplement-Step-3-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Choose-an-Iron-Supplement-Step-3-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c1\/Choose-an-Iron-Supplement-Step-3-Version-2.jpg\/aid8783265-v4-728px-Choose-an-Iron-Supplement-Step-3-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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. [6]
    • Avoid taking high-dose iron supplements if you aren’t anemic since too much could damage vital organs.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/28\/Recognize-the-Symptoms-of-Inflammatory-Bowel-Disease-Step-3-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Recognize-the-Symptoms-of-Inflammatory-Bowel-Disease-Step-3-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/28\/Recognize-the-Symptoms-of-Inflammatory-Bowel-Disease-Step-3-Version-2.jpg\/aid8783265-v4-728px-Recognize-the-Symptoms-of-Inflammatory-Bowel-Disease-Step-3-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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. [7]
    • 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
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9b\/Alleviate-Breast-Tenderness-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Alleviate-Breast-Tenderness-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/9b\/Alleviate-Breast-Tenderness-Step-7.jpg\/aid8783265-v4-728px-Alleviate-Breast-Tenderness-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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. [8]
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/4b\/Add-Calcium-Into-Your-Weight-Loss-Diet-Step-15.jpg\/v4-460px-Add-Calcium-Into-Your-Weight-Loss-Diet-Step-15.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/4b\/Add-Calcium-Into-Your-Weight-Loss-Diet-Step-15.jpg\/aid8783265-v4-728px-Add-Calcium-Into-Your-Weight-Loss-Diet-Step-15.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    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. [9]
    5. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Decrease Platelets
      Blood Blister Treatment Plus Causes and When to See a Doc
      How to
      Lower GGT Levels
      How to
      Lower Hematocrit Levels
      How to
      Calculate Blood Alcohol Content (Widmark Formula)
      How to
      Lower Calcium in Blood
      How to
      Raise Neutrophils
      How to
      Reduce White Blood Cells
      How to Use a Wrist Blood Pressure Cuff
      How to
      Lower BUN Levels
      How to
      Lower AST Levels
      Increasing Low Blood Sodium: At-Home and Medical Options
      How to
      Lower Globulin Levels
      What Is Trench Foot? Home Remedies, Causes, & More
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/anemia
      2. ↑ https://www.health.com/mchc-blood-test-7092747
      3. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23015-microcytic-anemia
      4. ↑ https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminB6-HealthProfessional/
      5. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6313466
      6. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3105608/
      7. ↑ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/14568-iron-oral-supplements-for-anemia
      8. ↑ https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminB6-HealthProfessional/
      9. ↑ https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Calcium-Consumer/

      About This Article

      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 110,415 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Anonymous

        Nov 15, 2017

        "Explained the symptoms and steps to raise my MCH. The foods to eat and why they help. The supplements that can help ..." more
      Share your story

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement