hs-CRP — Systemic Inflammation
High-sensitivity C-reactive protein is a non-specific marker of systemic inflammation. Chronically elevated values track with cardiovascular and metabolic risk. Optimal below 1.0 mg/L.
High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) is a non-specific marker of systemic inflammation, and chronically elevated values track with cardiovascular and metabolic risk. Because it is non-specific, a single high reading needs a repeat to separate a passing infection from a chronic pattern.
The biomarker
- Name: hs-CRP (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein)
- Units: mg/L
- Standard reference range: < 3.0 (low cardio risk); 3–10 (moderate); > 10 (acute inflammation, repeat test)
- Optimal range: < 1.0
How to read your result
| Result (mg/L) | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| < 1 | Low inflammation |
| 1–3 | Average |
| 3–10 | Elevated — chronic inflammation |
| ≥ 10 | Acute process — investigate |
What moves the needle
- Diet. Add omega-3 and polyphenols and reduce processed foods.
- Sleep. Prioritise 7–9 hours.
- Stress. Add a daily recovery practice.
- Acute readings. Repeat the test in about 2 weeks to confirm whether the elevation is chronic rather than a passing infection.
Why this test is worth asking for
- It surfaces low-grade systemic inflammation that has no obvious symptoms but tracks with cardiovascular and metabolic risk.
- Because it is non-specific, pairing it with the clinical picture — and a repeat test — separates chronic inflammation from a transient acute process.
- It is inexpensive and widely available, making it a practical addition to a metabolic or cardiovascular work-up.
Related protocols
- Fibrinogen — Clotting + Inflammation
- Lipid Panel — LDL, HDL, Triglycerides
- ApoB — Cardiovascular Risk Marker
Sources
AgeGen lab guides are educational only. We do not provide medical diagnosis, prescribe brands, or recommend specific doses. Talk to a licensed clinician before changing your supplement or medication routine.