Inflammation

hs-CRP (High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein)

High-sensitivity C-reactive protein is a marker of systemic inflammation produced by the liver. Unlike standard CRP tests used to detect acute infections, hs-CRP measures low-grade chronic inflammation — the kind linked to cardiovascular disease, metabolic dysfunction, and accelerated ageing. It is one of the most validated predictive biomarkers in preventive medicine.

Optimal Ranges

Clinical (NHS) Range

Below 3.0 mg/L

mg/L

Performance-Optimised Range

Below 1.0 mg/L

mg/L

The clinical range defines what is considered medically “normal” — broad enough to cover 95% of the population. The performance range reflects where research and clinical experience suggest most people feel and function at their best.

Why It Matters

Why hs-CRP matters for performance

Chronic low-grade inflammation is increasingly recognised as the underlying driver of most lifestyle diseases. For men focused on performance, elevated hs-CRP signals that the body is in a sustained stress response — impairing recovery, promoting fat storage, and increasing cardiovascular risk. Training hard while chronically inflamed compounds the problem. Identifying and addressing the source of inflammation — whether dietary, sleep-related, or metabolic — unlocks a level of recovery and energy that training alone cannot achieve.

Symptoms

Signs your levels may be off

Low / Deficiency

  • Not applicable — low hs-CRP is desirable

High / Excess

  • Persistent joint aches and stiffness
  • Unexplained fatigue
  • Slow recovery from training
  • Stubborn body fat, especially visceral
  • Poor sleep quality
  • Frequent illness

Dietary Sources

Foods that support hs-CRP levels

Oily fish (omega-3 fatty acids)Extra virgin olive oilTurmeric (with black pepper for absorption)Berries (blueberries, cherries)Leafy greens (spinach, kale)Walnuts and flaxseeds

Supplementation

Evidence-based supplementation approach

Omega-3 fish oil (2-4g EPA+DHA daily) is the most evidence-based anti-inflammatory supplement. Curcumin (500 mg with piperine, 2x daily) has strong clinical evidence for reducing hs-CRP. Addressing root causes is critical: reduce ultra-processed food, improve sleep quality, manage psychological stress, and ensure healthy body composition. Retest at 90 days to track the trajectory.

Research

Key study

C-reactive protein, inflammation, and coronary risk

Ridker PM

Cardiology Clinics (2003)

DOI: 10.1016/S0733-8651(03)00071-8

Related Biomarkers

Inflammation

Ferritin (Iron Stores)

Optimal: 80-150 ng/mL

Metabolic

HbA1c (Glycated Haemoglobin)

Optimal: 20-34 mmol/mol (below 5.4%)

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin D (25-OH)

Optimal: 100-150 nmol/L

Related Guides

Always Tired? The Blood Tests That Reveal Why

8 biomarkers behind fatigue

Complete Guide to Blood Tests for Men

What to test and why it matters

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This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Your data suggests areas for optimisation, but any concerns should be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional. If your results flag values outside safe ranges, we recommend consulting your GP.