Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
My Hb is 13 g/dl and my MCV level is 61 fL. I want to increase my MCV as soon as possible to 75 because I am going to join the military in a week. All I need is to ask if a blood transfusion can increase my MCV to 75 fL. Kindly suggest.
Hello,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
If you have a low MCV (mean corpuscular volume), it is important to determine the underlying cause and address it appropriately. If your MCV is low due to iron deficiency then you can try this following diet. If you are looking to increase your iron levels through diet, here are some iron-rich foods that you can consider:
1. Red meat: Beef, lamb, and pork are good sources of heme iron, which is more easily absorbed by the body.
2. Poultry: Chicken and turkey are also good sources of heme iron.
3. Fish and seafood: Certain types of fish, such as salmon, sardines, and tuna, as well as shellfish like oysters and clams, are rich in iron.
4. Legumes: Beans, lentils, chickpeas, and soybeans are excellent plant-based sources of iron.
5. Leafy greens: Spinach, kale, and other dark leafy greens are packed with iron.
6. Nuts and seeds: Almonds, cashews, pumpkin seeds, and sesame seeds are good sources of iron.
7. Fortified cereals and grains: Some cereals and grains are fortified with iron, making them a convenient option.
Remember that iron absorption can be enhanced by consuming vitamin C-rich foods, so try to include fruits like oranges, strawberries, and kiwi in your diet as well. However, it is important to note that dietary changes alone may not be sufficient to significantly increase your MCV levels in a short period of time. However you can try this food, fair chances are it will go up. I hope this will help you.
Thank you.
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Answered byDr. Vandana Andrews
Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team
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