Yearly labs usually involve a CBC (Complete Blood Count), which reveals various components of red and white blood cells. One of these components is the RDW (red cell distribution width), a measure of the variability in red blood cell size.
A low RDW indicates consistent red blood cell sizes, which is generally considered positive even if it falls below the normal range. However, some studies suggest that excessively uniform RBC sizes may not be optimal, with the ideal range being 11.4 – 12.5%. On the other hand, a high RDW often indicates the body’s struggle to produce enough red blood cells for various reasons.
From a naturopathic perspective, blood plays a crucial role in healing, as it carries oxygen and nutrients essential for cellular functions. Therefore, RDW serves as an important marker for overall health.
RDW as a Marker for Longevity and Biological Aging
Elevated RDW is strongly linked to biological aging and a less favorable prognosis in chronic diseases. It tends to increase with biological age and is associated with numerous diseases, suggesting a potential role as an indicator of underlying health issues.
While the exact significance of elevated RDW remains uncertain, it is often associated with inflammation and oxidative stress, common mechanisms in many age-related diseases.
My hypothesis is that RDW may not be a direct risk factor but rather a reflection of underlying processes that require attention, similar to inflammatory markers.
Why RDW might be High
A high RDW suggests inadequate RBC production to meet the body’s demands. Possible causes include nutritional deficiencies like iron, folate, and vitamin B12, blood loss, alcoholism, and inflammation-related conditions.
Various chronic diseases associated with inflammation can also contribute to elevated RDW, as well as factors like insomnia, sleep disorders, obesity, and antioxidant deficiencies.
What To Do If You Don’t Know the Cause
If the reason for high RDW is unclear, interventions known to promote longevity may help lower RDW levels. These include intermittent fasting, regular exercise, and supplements like curcumin, pomegranate, NADH, and mitochondrial support.
It seems that there is a negative relationship between red cell distribution width (RDW) and mitochondrial function, which is a logical connection. Mitochondrial dysfunction is a complex issue with various potential causes, and all the mentioned interventions would help support the mitochondria directly or indirectly. If the mitochondria are still not functioning optimally, some general approaches could include using methylene blue, red light therapy, and molecular hydrogen.
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