Inflammation (hsCRP)

Inflammation (hsCRP)

As Measured by hsCRP

What is Inflammation?

Inflammation is the body's response to an injury or infection. High sensitivity C-reactive protein is an acute-phase protein, which is produced by the liver in response to an injury, infection or general inflammation.

Studies suggest that a persistent low level of inflammation plays a major role in atherosclerosis, the narrowing of blood vessels due to build-up of cholesterol and other lipids, often associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD).

"Processed foods that include added sugars, trans fats, processed meats, excessive alcohol intake, and refined carbs can all cause inflammation."

What is hsCRP?

hsCRP levels reflect the general levels of inflammation in the body. hsCRP levels don't indicate the cause or source of inflammation in the body, they reflect the general level of inflammation present at the time of testing.

What is a Healthy Inflammation Level?

A healthy inflammation level is crucial for maintaining bodily functions and preventing chronic diseases. Low inflammation levels indicate a well-functioning immune system that effectively combats infections and heals injuries without causing long-term damage. Chronic high inflammation levels can disrupt normal bodily functions and lead to severe health conditions. Regular monitoring of inflammation markers can help in identifying and addressing potential health issues early. Maintaining a healthy inflammation level involves lifestyle changes, including diet, exercise, and stress management, to support the immune system.

Factors Contributing to High Inflammation Levels

Several factors contribute to high inflammation levels:

  • Poor Diet: High intake of processed foods and sugars.
  • Lack of Physical Activity: A sedentary lifestyle increases inflammation.
  • Chronic Stress: Elevated cortisol levels can sustain inflammation.
  • Environmental Factors: Pollution and exposure to toxins play a role.
  • Lifestyle Choices: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

Identifying and addressing these factors can help in managing and reducing chronic inflammation. Adopting a healthier lifestyle with balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and stress reduction techniques is essential.

Low Inflammation Foods

Consuming low inflammation foods is an effective way to manage and reduce chronic inflammation. These foods include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, which are rich in antioxidants and nutrients that combat inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and flaxseeds are also beneficial. Incorporating these foods into your diet can significantly lower inflammation levels. Avoiding processed foods, sugary beverages, and trans fats is equally important. A balanced diet with low inflammation foods supports overall health and reduces the risk of chronic diseases.

Supplements for Inflammation

Certain supplements can help manage inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil supplements, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric, with its active compound curcumin, is another powerful anti-inflammatory supplement. Vitamin D and probiotics also play a role in reducing inflammation. Consulting with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen is recommended. Supplements should complement a healthy diet and lifestyle for optimal results. Using supplements for inflammation can provide additional support in managing chronic conditions and improving overall health.

Key Biomarkers: AST, ALT, Visceral Fat, and Inflammation

Monitoring biomarkers like AST (aspartate aminotransferase) and ALT (alanine transaminase) alongside inflammation and visceral fat provides a comprehensive view of your metabolic health. Elevated levels of these markers can indicate underlying health issues related to chronic inflammation.

  • AST: High AST levels can signify liver damage or disease.
  • ALT: High ALT levels also indicate liver health issues.
  • Visceral Fat: Directly measured through waist-height ratio or imaging techniques.
  • Inflammation: Chronic inflammation is linked to high visceral fat levels.

Why It's Important to Monitor Inflammation Levels

Monitoring inflammation levels is crucial for preventing chronic diseases. High levels of inflammation are associated with serious health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders. Regular testing and lifestyle adjustments can significantly reduce health risks. Understanding your inflammation levels can help you take proactive steps to improve your overall health. Making informed choices about diet, exercise, and stress management can help you maintain healthy inflammation levels and enhance your quality of life.

Order Your Metabolic Health Test Kit Today!

What is Inflammation?

Inflammation is the body's response to an injury or infection. High sensitivity C-reactive protein is an acute-phase protein, which is produced by the liver in response to an injury, infection or general inflammation.

Studies suggest that a persistent low level of inflammation plays a major role in atherosclerosis, the narrowing of blood vessels due to build-up of cholesterol and other lipids, often associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD).

"Processed foods that include added sugars, trans fats, processed meats, excessive alcohol intake, and refined carbs can all cause inflammation."

What is hsCRP?

hsCRP levels reflect the general levels of inflammation in the body. hsCRP levels don't indicate the cause or source of inflammation in the body, they reflect the general level of inflammation present at the time of testing.

What is a Healthy Inflammation Level?

A healthy inflammation level is crucial for maintaining bodily functions and preventing chronic diseases. Low inflammation levels indicate a well-functioning immune system that effectively combats infections and heals injuries without causing long-term damage. Chronic high inflammation levels can disrupt normal bodily functions and lead to severe health conditions. Regular monitoring of inflammation markers can help in identifying and addressing potential health issues early. Maintaining a healthy inflammation level involves lifestyle changes, including diet, exercise, and stress management, to support the immune system.

Factors Contributing to High Inflammation Levels

Several factors contribute to high inflammation levels:

  • Poor Diet: High intake of processed foods and sugars.
  • Lack of Physical Activity: A sedentary lifestyle increases inflammation.
  • Chronic Stress: Elevated cortisol levels can sustain inflammation.
  • Environmental Factors: Pollution and exposure to toxins play a role.
  • Lifestyle Choices: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

Identifying and addressing these factors can help in managing and reducing chronic inflammation. Adopting a healthier lifestyle with balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and stress reduction techniques is essential.

Low Inflammation Foods

Consuming low inflammation foods is an effective way to manage and reduce chronic inflammation. These foods include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, which are rich in antioxidants and nutrients that combat inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and flaxseeds are also beneficial. Incorporating these foods into your diet can significantly lower inflammation levels. Avoiding processed foods, sugary beverages, and trans fats is equally important. A balanced diet with low inflammation foods supports overall health and reduces the risk of chronic diseases.

Supplements for Inflammation

Certain supplements can help manage inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil supplements, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric, with its active compound curcumin, is another powerful anti-inflammatory supplement. Vitamin D and probiotics also play a role in reducing inflammation. Consulting with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen is recommended. Supplements should complement a healthy diet and lifestyle for optimal results. Using supplements for inflammation can provide additional support in managing chronic conditions and improving overall health.

Key Biomarkers: AST, ALT, Visceral Fat, and Inflammation

Monitoring biomarkers like AST (aspartate aminotransferase) and ALT (alanine transaminase) alongside inflammation and visceral fat provides a comprehensive view of your metabolic health. Elevated levels of these markers can indicate underlying health issues related to chronic inflammation.

  • AST: High AST levels can signify liver damage or disease.
  • ALT: High ALT levels also indicate liver health issues.
  • Visceral Fat: Directly measured through waist-height ratio or imaging techniques.
  • Inflammation: Chronic inflammation is linked to high visceral fat levels.

Why It's Important to Monitor Inflammation Levels

Monitoring inflammation levels is crucial for preventing chronic diseases. High levels of inflammation are associated with serious health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders. Regular testing and lifestyle adjustments can significantly reduce health risks. Understanding your inflammation levels can help you take proactive steps to improve your overall health. Making informed choices about diet, exercise, and stress management can help you maintain healthy inflammation levels and enhance your quality of life.

Order Your Metabolic Health Test Kit Today!

Sources

1) https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/inflammation-a-unifying-theory-of-disease

Disclaimer

Choose Health offers access to laboratory testing for wellness monitoring, informational and educational use. The tests we offer access to are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. None of our tests are intended to be a substitute for seeking professional medical advice, help, diagnosis, or treatment.