MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume)

Routine annual

also —

What it isThe average size of a single red blood cell, measured in femtoliters.

DoesClassifies anemia by red cell size and points toward the underlying cause.

GoodA mid-range MCV indicates normally-sized cells and signals balanced iron and B vitamin status.

BadLow MCV (microcytic) flags iron deficiency or thalassemia. High MCV (macrocytic) flags B12 or folate deficiency, alcohol use, or hypothyroidism.

Standard

80–100 fL.

Optimal

86–92 fL (narrow target)

Modifiers

Rises with alcohol; rises in hypothyroidism.

How to optimize

Lifestyle: Cut alcohol; treat hypothyroidism.
Diet: Red meat, eggs, leafy greens, legumes for iron and B vitamins.
Supplements: Methylcobalamin (1000µg/day), methylfolate (400–800µg/day), iron (if deficient).
Peptides: —
Drugs: Treat underlying cause.

within Blood Cells