MCH
Mean cell haemoglobin (MCH) is the average amount of haemoglobin in each red blood cell.
Mean cell haemoglobin (MCH) is the average amount of haemoglobin in each red blood cell. Haemoglobin is the protein that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. MCH is calculated from the blood count and is read together with MCV, MCHC and haemoglobin.
Intake of iron, vitamin B12 and folate affects how red blood cells are built and how much haemoglobin they carry. Heavy menstruation, blood donation and alcohol play a part, and inherited traits of the red blood cells can also shape the value.
Foods that help
Meat, fish, eggs, legumes and dark leafy greens provide iron; fish, meat, eggs and dairy provide vitamin B12; and leafy greens, legumes and whole grains provide folate. Vitamin C-rich foods with meals help iron uptake.
Foods to limit
Large amounts of alcohol affect red blood cell production. Coffee and tea with meals reduce how much iron is absorbed.
Track it through the year
One value is a snapshot. Following it up shows whether what you changed is working.
Related markers
Educational information only — not a diagnosis. Every result is checked against safe limits, and anything critical is escalated for follow-up.
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