What is MCH blood test and how does it relate to overall health?

Question

I recently had a routine blood test and noticed that my doctor recommended an MCH blood test, but I’m not entirely sure what it measures or why it’s important. From what I understand, MCH (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin) is a test that measures the average amount of hemoglobin in red blood cells, which is crucial for oxygen transport throughout the body. The results came back with a value that seemed a bit off from the normal range, and now I’m concerned about whether this indicates any underlying health problems.

I’ve read that MCH can be an indicator of anemia or nutritional deficiencies, but I’m not sure what could be causing my abnormal result. Could it be related to iron deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency, or some other condition? I’ve been feeling more tired than usual, and I also have occasional paleness, which I think could be linked to low hemoglobin.

Does Ayurveda offer any solutions to improve MCH levels and promote healthy hemoglobin production? I’ve heard that Ayurvedic herbs like Amla, Ashwagandha, and Guduchi can help with energy levels and blood health, but I’m curious to know how they specifically address MCH and red blood cell production. Are there any specific foods or lifestyle practices that can improve iron absorption and support red blood cell health according to Ayurveda?

I’d appreciate any advice from people who have had abnormal MCH levels and used Ayurvedic remedies to restore their blood health. What helped you, and what should I be looking out for?

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

MCH (Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin) measures the average amount of hemoglobin in red blood cells, and abnormal levels can indicate conditions like anemia or nutritional deficiencies, particularly in iron, vitamin B12, or folate. Low MCH levels could suggest iron deficiency anemia, which is common when the body lacks enough iron to produce healthy red blood cells, leading to fatigue, paleness, and weakness. Ayurveda offers several remedies to improve blood health and support hemoglobin production. Amla, rich in vitamin C, helps enhance iron absorption, while Ashwagandha provides energy and supports overall vitality, helping with fatigue. Guduchi is known for boosting immunity and detoxifying the blood, which can aid in overall blood health. Ayurveda also recommends consuming iron-rich foods like spinach, fenugreek, dates, and pomegranate, combined with vitamin C-rich foods to improve iron absorption. Ginger and turmeric also aid digestion, which is important for nutrient absorption. In addition to herbs and foods, Ayurveda emphasizes a balanced lifestyle, proper rest, and stress management to optimize overall health. If you’re concerned about your MCH levels, working with an Ayurvedic practitioner or a healthcare provider can provide a comprehensive approach to improving your blood health.

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