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MCHC, or mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, is a red blood cell measurement that indicates the amount of hemoglobin in a given volume of red blood cells. This assessment may be used to classify anemias. (source)
Low mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) levels can stem from both physiological and nutritional factors. Physiologically, issues affecting red blood cell production in the bone marrow and spleen can contribute to decreased MCHC levels. Nutritionally, deficiency in iron can also lead to low MCHC levels. (source)
Prioritize iron-rich foods: Low levels of iron are associated with low MCHC. (source) IIron is a key component of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen within red blood cells. Increased iron intake increases the amount available to make new red blood cells in the bone marrow, increasing hemoglobin levels and MCHC. (source)Recommendation: Consume at least two servings of iron-rich foods weekly.
One serving examples: Liver (3 oz), Oysters (3 oz), Lentils (1 cup), Pumpkin Seeds (1 oz)
Prioritize proper hydration: Water intake has been shown to increase MCHC. (source) Water directly aids in hemoglobin synthesis as water is needed for the regulation of oxygen-binding properties and directly increases MCHC. (source) Recommendation: Drink at least 0.5 fl oz of water per pound body weight per day.
Supplement with spirulina: Supplementation with spirulina has been shown to increase MCHC. (source) Spirulina contains a high amount of iron that, when absorbed, increases hemoglobin synthesis, thereby increasing MCHC. (source) Recommendation: Supplement with at least 1 g of spirulina daily.
Elevated mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) levels can stem from physiological factors involving red blood cell production and function, often influenced by the bone marrow and spleen. Nutritionally, vitamin B12 and folate status can contribute to higher MCHC levels. (source)
Incorporate matcha tea: Consumption of matcha tea has been shown to decrease MCHC levels. (source) Matcha tea contains certain tannins, primarily EGCG, that can reduce iron absorption in the body, potentially resulting in decreased RBC count and MCHC. (source, source) Recommendation: Consume at least 2 g of matcha tea, daily, steeped in hot water.
Resistance training: Resistance training has been shown to decrease MCHC. (source) Resistance training can increase plasma blood volume, which dilutes the concentration of hemoglobin in red blood cells and lowers MCHC. (source) Recommendation: Follow a structured resistance training program with moderate to heavy loads at least two times a week. The final set of each exercise should be taken within two repetitions of failure.
Supplement with a vitamin B complex: High MCHC is associated with a deficiency of B vitamins. (source) B vitamins encourage cell division and maturation in the bone marrow, which helps maintain regular hemoglobin concentrations in red blood cells, as well as MCHC. (source, source) Recommendation: Supplement with a vitamin B complex that has at least 50% of daily recommendations for each B vitamin.
