How to Increase Low MCV Levels Naturally

How to Increase MCV Levels Naturally: Causes, Symptoms, Diet & Safe Remedies

MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume) is a routine blood test parameter that reflects the average size of red blood cells. In day-to-day lab and OPD practice, doctors look at MCV to understand how red blood cells are being formed, not just how many are present. When MCV is low, it usually means the red blood cells are smaller than expected, a pattern referred to as microcytosis.

Clinically, low MCV is most often seen alongside iron deficiency, but it can also appear in certain long-standing illnesses or inherited blood conditions. Smaller red blood cells tend to carry oxygen less efficiently, which explains why patients often report tiredness, weakness, or reduced stamina. In many cases, once the underlying cause is addressed, MCV gradually improves.

This article explains what low MCV means, why it happens, the symptoms commonly seen, practical dietary and lifestyle measures that support improvement, and when medical evaluation becomes important.

Overview: What Is MCV and Why Is It Tested?

MCV simply tells us the average size of red blood cells:

Low MCV: red blood cells are smaller than normal
Normal MCV: red blood cell size is appropriate
High MCV: red blood cells are larger than normal

Doctors usually review MCV as part of a Complete Blood Count (CBC). In real-world practice, MCV is rarely interpreted alone. It is correlated with hemoglobin, RBC count, and the patient’s symptoms. A low MCV often prompts doctors to think about iron availability and red cell production quality.

Causes of Low MCV Levels

Low MCV develops when red blood cells are formed with less hemoglobin or mature improperly. Common causes include:

Iron deficiency
This is the most frequent reason. When iron is insufficient, red blood cells cannot develop fully and remain small. Clinically, this is often seen in people with dietary gaps, chronic blood loss, pregnancy, or absorption issues.

Thalassemia trait
This inherited condition produces naturally smaller red blood cells. In routine labs, these patients may show very low MCV with relatively preserved hemoglobin and minimal symptoms.

Anemia of chronic disease
Long-standing infections, inflammatory conditions, kidney disease, or autoimmune disorders can interfere with iron utilization, resulting in low MCV despite adequate iron stores.

Copper deficiency (uncommon)
Copper supports iron metabolism. Severe deficiency, though rare, can affect red blood cell size.

Lead exposure (rare)
Lead interferes with normal bone marrow function and can produce microcytic changes.

Poor overall nutrition
Inadequate intake of iron, folate, or vitamin C can slow healthy red blood cell development.

Symptoms of Low MCV Levels

Symptoms depend on how low the MCV is and how long it has been low. Commonly reported complaints include:

Persistent tiredness
General weakness
Pale or dull skin tone
Dizziness or light-headedness
Shortness of breath on exertion
Headaches
Cold hands and feet
Difficulty concentrating

In OPD settings, many patients realize something is wrong only when these symptoms start affecting daily activities.

Diet & Food Support to Improve MCV Levels

For most people, nutritional correction is the foundation for improving low MCV, especially when iron deficiency is involved.

Iron-supportive foods
Regular inclusion of iron-rich foods helps red blood cells mature properly. These may include leafy greens, lentils, beans, eggs, fish, poultry, seeds, whole grains, and dried fruits. Consistency matters more than occasional intake.

Vitamin C sources
Vitamin C helps the body absorb iron more effectively. Clinically, doctors often advise pairing iron-rich meals with fruits or vegetables rich in vitamin C.

Folate-containing foods
Folate supports red blood cell formation and may be relevant in selected cases.

Copper-containing foods
Only relevant when deficiency is documented, but foods like nuts, seeds, and whole grains naturally contribute.

Lifestyle Measures That Support Healthy MCV

In routine practice, simple habits often make a noticeable difference over time:

Avoid tea or coffee with meals, as they reduce iron absorption
Maintain good hydration, which supports circulation and reduces fatigue
Limit alcohol intake, as it interferes with nutrient absorption
Avoid smoking, which reduces oxygen availability
Engage in light physical activity, such as walking or yoga
Ensure adequate sleep, allowing the body to recover and rebuild

These measures do not act overnight but support gradual normalization.

Supplements (Used With Medical Guidance)

When diet alone is insufficient, doctors may consider supplements based on test results.

Iron supplements may be advised when deficiency is confirmed
Vitamin C may be added to improve absorption
Folic acid is used when folate deficiency contributes
Copper supplements are prescribed only in rare, documented cases

In lab practice, unnecessary supplementation is avoided, as excess iron can cause harm.

When to See a Doctor

Medical review is important if:

MCV remains low on repeated tests
Fatigue or breathlessness persists
Low MCV is detected during pregnancy
There is heavy or unexplained blood loss
Dietary correction does not improve symptoms
There are signs of absorption problems or inherited blood disorders

Doctors may review iron studies, vitamin levels, and family history to clarify the cause.

Test Preparation (MCV Test)

No fasting is required
Normal water intake is fine
Inform the lab about iron or vitamin supplements
Avoid alcohol the day before testing
Share pregnancy status or chronic illness history

Important Word Explanations

MCV: Average size of red blood cells
Microcytosis: Smaller than normal red blood cells
Iron deficiency: Inadequate iron for normal red cell formation
Folate: Vitamin B9, important for red blood cell production
Hemoglobin: Protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen

How to Increase Low MCV Levels Naturally | Causes, Symptoms & Diet