Ask Ayurveda

FREE! Ask Ayurvedic Doctors 24/7

Get expert answers from certified doctors anytime

Fast responses
1000+ verified doctors
General Medicine
Question #17180
1 year ago
847

mch low means - #17180

Ryan
FREE

So I got my blood test done last week 'cause I was feeling super tired all the time, like no matter how much I sleep, I wake up exhausted. Thought it was just stress or bad diet, but when the results came in, my doc said my MCH is low. Had no idea what that even means, so I Googled it and now I’m just more confused. Some websites say it’s linked to anemia, others say it’s diet related, and now I’m overthinking every single thing I eat. My iron levels were also a bit on the lower side, but not "dangerously" low according to the doctor. He didn’t prescribe anything except saying “eat more iron-rich foods” which is kinda vague. I already eat eggs, spinach, and lentils regularly, so why is my MCH low? I even started taking iron supplements months ago but apparently, that’s not enough? Also, I’ve been dealing with dizziness, cold hands & feet, and my hair is shedding more than usual lately. Is this all connected to my MCH low issue? I do drink a lot of tea & coffee, could that be affecting iron absorption? I read somewhere that tannins in tea can mess with iron levels, but would that really cause my MCH to be low? Now I’m thinking maybe Ayurveda could help balance whatever's off in my body. Are there any Ayurvedic herbs or treatments for this kind of thing? Like, if it's linked to anemia or poor nutrient absorption, is there a way to fix it naturally? Also, should I avoid certain foods or habits that might be making my MCH low worse? I don’t want to just take random supplements if there's a better way to fix this at the root. Has anyone tried Ayurvedic remedies for low MCH before? Did it actually help? I'm open to dietary changes or herbal treatments if they actually work. What would be a good place to start?

Question is closed
Writing an explanation of your symptoms through Ayurveda...
Analyzing through Ayurvedic framework0%

Doctors' responses

Namaste,

Your low MCH (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin) suggests that your red blood cells may not be carrying enough hemoglobin, often linked to iron deficiency anemia or poor iron absorption. The symptoms you’re experiencing—fatigue, dizziness, hair shedding, and cold hands & feet—are all common signs of this imbalance. While you’re already eating iron-rich foods, factors like poor digestion, low Agni (digestive fire), and dietary habits (like excessive tea and coffee) could be blocking proper absorption.

From an Ayurvedic perspective, low MCH can be due to weak Rakta Dhatu (blood tissue) and poor Pitta balance, affecting nutrient absorption. To improve iron levels and overall blood health, include Ayurvedic herbs like Punarnava, Ashwagandha, Shatavari, and Guduchi, which nourish and strengthen the blood. Loha Bhasma (iron ash) or Mandura Bhasma may also be beneficial if prescribed by an experienced Vaidya. Triphala can help cleanse the gut and improve absorption, ensuring that the nutrients you consume are utilized properly.

Since tannins in tea and coffee can inhibit iron absorption, try cutting down on them, especially right before or after meals. Instead, switch to Cumin-Fennel-Coriander tea, which enhances digestion and supports iron metabolism. Eating iron-rich foods with vitamin C sources (like amla, lemon, or pomegranate) can also boost absorption. Cooking in an iron vessel can naturally increase iron intake. Including dates, black sesame seeds, and beetroot in your diet can also support healthy hemoglobin levels.

Balancing your digestion (Agni) is key—without proper absorption, even the best diet won’t fully benefit you. Ayurvedic therapies like Abhyanga (oil massage), gentle yoga, and pranayama (like Anulom Vilom) can improve circulation and energy levels. If symptoms persist, consulting an Ayurvedic practitioner for a personalized approach would be ideal. Wishing you strength and vitality ahead!

12035 answered questions
28% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies

Low MCH (mean corpuscular hemoglobin) can indeed be linked to anemia, typically indicating that your red blood cells may not be carrying enough hemoglobin, which could result from iron deficiency or poor absorption of nutrients. The dizziness, cold hands and feet, and hair shedding you’re experiencing may all be related to the low iron and MCH levels. Iron absorption can be affected by factors like drinking tea or coffee, which contain tannins that interfere with iron absorption, so it’s a good idea to avoid consuming these beverages immediately around meals. Ayurveda focuses on balancing the body’s energy and nourishing it with specific foods and herbs. For your situation, herbs like Ashwagandha, Shatavari, and Gokshura can support overall vitality and help balance your blood. Triphala is also great for improving digestion and nutrient absorption. To support iron levels naturally, include foods like beets, pomegranate, and jaggery, which are known to enhance iron absorption. Ayurveda also recommends avoiding foods that are overly cold or raw, as they can weaken digestion (Agni), further hindering nutrient absorption. It would be helpful to focus on warming, nourishing, and easy-to-digest foods, and avoid excessive tea or coffee with meals. Ayurvedic treatments, like Panchakarma, could also help detoxify and balance your system, improving overall nutrient absorption and energy.

12159 answered questions
27% best answers

0 replies

Thank you for sharing your concerns, and it’s great to see your proactive approach to improving your health. Based on the symptoms you’ve described—fatigue, dizziness, cold extremities, hair shedding—and your low MCH and iron levels, it seems you may be experiencing a type of anemia, possibly linked to nutrient absorption or dietary factors.

Understanding Your Condition: In Ayurveda, low MCH can correlate with a deficiency in the “Rasa” (plasma) and “Shukra” (reproductive tissues) dhatus, often connected to “Pitta” imbalance leading to poor digestion (Agni) and diminished absorption of nutrients. Cold extremities and fatigue suggest impaired circulation and possible “Vata” imbalance.

Dietary Recommendations: 1. Iron-rich Foods: Continue consuming spinach, lentils, and eggs but also include: - Beetroot: Excellent for blood health. Have it in salad or juice form. - Raisins and Dates: Soak them in water overnight. Consume them in the morning for a nutritious boost. - Sesame Seeds: Integrate these into your meals for additional iron.

2. Absorption Aids: - Pair iron-rich foods with vitamin C sources (like oranges, guavas, or bell peppers) to enhance absorption. - Limit tea and coffee intake around meal times; try to consume them at least 1-2 hours before or after meals to minimize tannin interference with iron absorption.

Herbal Treatments: 1. Amla (Indian Gooseberry): Extremely rich in vitamin C and helps improve iron absorption. Have it as juice or powder mixed with honey daily. 2. Ashwagandha: Good for energy levels and stress. Take it in powder form (1 teaspoon) mixed in warm milk before bed. 3. Moringa Powder: Rich in iron. Add this to smoothies or meals.

Lifestyle Adjustments: - Stay Warm: Keep your feet and hands warm. Use warm compresses if needed. - Rest: Follow a balanced sleep schedule and incorporate gentle yoga to enhance circulation (such as Pranayama breathing exercises).

Next Steps: Start integrating these dietary and herbal recommendations gradually. Monitor how these changes affect your symptoms and energy levels. It’s advisable to check with your healthcare provider before beginning any new herbal remedies, especially in conjunction with supplements you may be taking.

Overall Approach: The goal is to enhance digestion and absorption while nourishing your tissues. By operationalizing these Ayurvedic principles, you can empower your body to restore balance and vitality.

Please feel free to follow up if you have more questions or need further clarification. Wishing you all the best on your wellness journey!

16011 answered questions
33% best answers

0 replies

About our doctors

Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


What is the best medicine to treat small bumps on my scalp that have lasted for 5-6 months?
Can I use Chitrak Haritaki while taking rosuvas, diabetes, and hypertension medications?
Can I take Livosin continuously for 4 months for my fatty liver and occasional right-side stomach pain?
What is the cause of whole body itching after dinner at night and how to treat it?
How to treat amavata and improve bowel movement and urinary flow?
Can I take Keela Nelli plant extract regularly before meals for digestive issues after stent surgery?
How to increase height at 15 years old with Ashwagandha and Shatavari?
What can I do to increase my height at 14 years old within a budget of 100?
How to increase height for a 23-year-old woman who is 150 cm tall and weighs 53 kg?
How to learn Nadi Pariksha and lose 18 kg without medication?
Can I take Livosin continuously for 4 months for fatty liver if I have slight pain on my right side?
When should I start Ayurvedic medicine for my cervical spondylosis while on neuropathic medication?
How to increase height at the age of 15 and what things can help with height growth?
How to manage high blood sugar and cholesterol while taking Ayurvedic and English medicines?
Can my 18-year-old daughter take this medicine for her stomach and back pain, weakness, and loss of appetite?
Is it safe for a 70-year-old to use Tantric Forte for nerve weakness and pain?
What to do if my 17-year-old son is not growing and looks younger due to stomach issues?
What to do for weakness and joint pain after COVID-19 in a 63-year-old?
How to stop eating clay or mud and manage health issues like white discharge, dental cavities, knee pain, and period cramps?
Is it possible to increase my height from 4'11 to 5'1 after starting my period at age 13?
Why do I feel unbalanced and have a heavy head after taking ashwagandha and satavari together?
How to treat Chalazion in both eyes that hasn't improved after a year?
Can I take Pithorin tablets for gallstones at 60 years old, and how often can I take them safely?
Can I give boneset to my 9-month-old German Shepherd with a detached bone end?
How to manage high blood pressure, creatinine levels, and blood sugar in my case?
Can I use this oil to treat pain and inflammation in my back during prayer?
Can my 21-year-old son with epilepsy take Narasimha Rasayan?
How to improve my weight and energy levels at 25 years old?
How to treat foot numbness after lumbar spinal fusion surgery one year ago?
What to do for fiberglass splinters in my fingers that are encapsulated and causing itching and swelling?
How to treat my 7-year-old son's autism with Ayurvedic medicines like Vacha and Brahmi?
What are the Ayurvedic remedies for B12 deficiency with a count of 173 and can I avoid injections?
How long does it take for Kamdudha Vati to relieve breast and chest pain after gallbladder removal?
How to use this medicine: should I take it in the morning, evening, or at night?
How to treat morning heaviness in eyes and fatigue after sex for 20-25 days?
Does live 52 by Himalaya Drugs have side effects and help digestion by boosting T4 to T3 conversion?
Is it safe to take Assicon syrup and Livcon for weight gain for 3 months, and will my weight decrease if I stop?
How to treat tension and body weakness with back pain at age 27?
Can I repeat Mebarid syrup and Zifi for my 4-month-old baby if diarrhea hasn't stopped after 5 days?
How to safely normalize metabolism and reduce period pain for a 22-year-old female with Hashimoto's and vata imbalance?
How to gain weight while dealing with pimples, oily skin, and hair fall?
What to do if there's grape-sized tissue left in the uterus after a medical abortion?
What are some remedies for cervical pain with dizziness?
How to use triphala and guggulu together without aggravating pitta in hot weather?
What to do if I have a persistent mouth ulcer for 40 days that isn't healing?
How to lower high bad cholesterol and triglycerides with medicines or juices?
Is it safe to take abana for cholesterol, vasaka for asthma, and amlant for GERD together?
What to do for persistent fever, indigestion, and weight loss over 3 years?
Is it safe to continue taking Madhukalp vati and Madhunadhini for my high HbA1c level of 61 at 49 years old?
Can I take Medohara Vati for high cholesterol and triglycerides?
What could be causing bright red blood in my stool after my period and should I seek help?
Can I mix shatavari with sukumar kashyam or should I take them separately after meals?
How to increase height for a 14-year-old within a budget of 100?
What to do for dizziness and spinning sensation after taking Ashwagandha and trouble sleeping with Brahmi?
When is the best time to take Shilajit, in summer or winter, and what are its benefits and side effects?
Why does my blood pressure rise when I eat ghee or ghee-based foods despite taking medication?
What to do for anxiety, insomnia, and gas issues at night?
Can I take Siddhmakardwaj at night after Serenace treatment? Are there any side effects?
Can I take sugar with my diabetes, and how many tablets should I take at a time?
How to find out when my confirmed medicine order will be delivered?
How to take this medicine for my heart condition and diabetes?
Does Amla help reduce diabetic nerve pain in feet with persistent tingling and burning in toes?
How to take Dr. Meyers Pilex for piles at 25 years old?
What are the best treatments for diabetes and related issues after 8 years?
How much Arvindsava should I give to my 6 and 12-year-old children and what are its benefits?
What are the side effects of long-term use of Ashwagandha, Safed Musli, and other herbs?
What dietary changes or herbal medications can help treat fatty liver?
How to use the two different capsules I received for treatment?
How to use white musli and nutmeg for fatigue and weakness?
Can I take Ayurvedic medicine for diabetes while using homeopathic treatment for pigmentation and itching?
What is a good tonic for teen girls to improve eyesight from screen time and what yoga poses should they do for health?
How to use Brahma Rasayana for health and immunity, and what are its dosage and contraindications?
How to increase height for a 16-year-old girl who is 4.7 feet tall?
Can I increase my GLIMIKEM-MP1 dosage from 1 to 1.5 tablets for type 2 diabetes at 75 years old?
How to manage high HbA1c levels and kidney function in a 58-year-old woman on insulin?
Can I take Livosin continuously for 5 months for fatty liver and occasional right side stomach pain?
Can I take Mukta Vati for high blood pressure at dinner if I'm 52 and just had 140/90 readings?
How to increase my height at 20 years old?
What causes height not to increase at 15 years old and how can I increase my height?
How to treat persistent headaches and weakness that make me feel unconscious?
What to do if my linear lichen planus pigmentous isn't improving after Ayurvedic treatment?
rfrrrrrrdd fff ffknFL F oJfpfwfk snl gpfwfj flfs
What to do for M.N.D symptoms like not eating, difficulty speaking, and constant tears?
Is it safe to take Manasamitravatakam tablets with BPcinod 10 mg and thyroid medication for poor sleep?
How to treat fungal infection on hips after stopping allopathic medicine?
What are the Ayurvedic treatments for high MCV and constant fatigue?
What herbal tea is good for diabetic neuropathy if my husband is on aspirin and has heart stents?
How to treat body pain and low heart rate of 36 to 40 bpm as seen on a Holter monitor?
How to take Akangvir Ras for Saitika, including dosage, dietary restrictions, and timing?
Can I eat fish cooked in desi ghee after adding ghee to rice, and how can white spots occur?
Can Ayurveda help my 24-year-old daughter grow taller at 143 cm?
Can I take Maharasnadi kadha with Guggul if I have gas trouble and I'm using Statiga*ASP 75?
How to increase height naturally at 15 years old and is Ashwagandha with Shatavari effective?
Does taking Himplasia tablets increase creatinine levels? My creatinine has risen from 0.82 to 1.05 between February and June.
Can I use Ayurvedic medicine for high sugar levels and muscle pain after 20 years of hysterectomy and 13 years of diabetes?
How to treat weight loss with fatty liver, sugar, and blood pressure issues in a 47-year-old woman?
Can I give my 15-year-old daughter Liv 52 tablets for high SGPT levels?
Can I mix 20 kari patta, 10 peepal patta, 10 bargad patta, and 10 neem patta in buttermilk or yogurt to drink?
Can heart patients take this medicine without issues in other areas like joints or heart, especially at age 50 with a history of a minor attack?
Can I take AMLA extract while on potassium-containing blood pressure medication?

Doctors online

Latest reviews

Quincy
4 hours ago
Hey! This answer really put my mind at ease. It made sense of my brother's issues, and I appreciate the practical steps. Thanks a ton!
Hey! This answer really put my mind at ease. It made sense of my brother's issues, and I appreciate the practical steps. Thanks a ton!
Elijah
18 hours ago
Big thanks for the insightful advice! Your detailed explanation on balancing Vata and Pitta was incredibly helpful. Appreciate it lots!
Big thanks for the insightful advice! Your detailed explanation on balancing Vata and Pitta was incredibly helpful. Appreciate it lots!
Raven
18 hours ago
Really appreciated the clear and detailed advice! Finally found something that makes sense and didn’t just leave me more confused. Thanks a ton!
Really appreciated the clear and detailed advice! Finally found something that makes sense and didn’t just leave me more confused. Thanks a ton!
Shelby
20 hours ago
This response was super helpful! It gave a really thorough insight into my dad's condition and diet tips. I now feel more hopeful. Thanks!
This response was super helpful! It gave a really thorough insight into my dad's condition and diet tips. I now feel more hopeful. Thanks!