CRP (C-Reactive Protein)
CRP is a marker of inflammation. Mildly elevated CRP is associated with increased cardiovascular risk; very high CRP often signals active infection or autoimmune flare.
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What CRP (C-Reactive Protein) measures
CRP is made by the liver and rises within hours of inflammation. There are two versions: high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) for cardiovascular risk assessment, and standard CRP for tracking active infection or inflammatory disease (rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, IBD).
Normal ranges
Reference ranges may vary slightly by lab. Always use the range provided on your specific test report.
What affects your crp (c-reactive protein) level
- Active infection (bacterial much more than viral)
- Autoimmune disease flare (RA, lupus, IBD)
- Obesity and visceral fat (chronic low-grade inflammation)
- Smoking
- Poor sleep and chronic stress
- Periodontal disease
- Recent injury or surgery
Foods that may help
Fatty fish (salmon, sardines)
Omega-3s are among the most potent anti-inflammatories
Berries
Anthocyanins lower CRP in clinical trials
Turmeric (with black pepper)
Curcumin reduces CRP — pepper boosts absorption
Olive oil and leafy greens
The anti-inflammatory backbone of the Mediterranean diet
Green tea
Catechins lower inflammatory markers
When to see your doctor
hs-CRP above 3 mg/L warrants cardiovascular risk evaluation alongside lipids and glucose. Standard CRP above 10 mg/L paired with symptoms (fever, joint pain, GI issues) needs prompt workup to identify the source of inflammation.
Related biomarkers
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Educational content only · Not medical advice