hsCRP
High-sensitivity inflammatory marker in the blood
Also known as
Definition
High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) is an ultrasensitive inflammation marker that detects even low-grade chronic systemic inflammation. It is an independent risk marker for cardiovascular disease. In biohacking contexts, hsCRP serves as a key indicator of inflammatory status and the effectiveness of lifestyle interventions.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Unit | mg/l |
| Reference Range | < 3.0 mg/l (cardiovascular risk screening per ESC guidelines) |
| Optimal Range (lab2go) | < 1.0 mg/l (low cardiovascular risk) |
↓ What a low value means
hsCRP < 1.0 mg/l indicates a low inflammatory burden and is considered cardioprotective. Very low values near zero are unremarkable and desirable. There is no clinically meaningful lower limit — a low hsCRP is a positive finding requiring no action.
↑ What a high value means
hsCRP 1–3 mg/l: intermediate cardiovascular risk (ESC classification). hsCRP > 3 mg/l: high cardiovascular risk; spuriously elevated values from acute infections must first be excluded (repeat measurement after 2–4 weeks recommended). hsCRP > 10 mg/l: likely acute infection or tissue injury — cardiovascular interpretation not valid. Chronically elevated hsCRP is associated with obesity, metabolic syndrome, sleep deprivation, smoking, and periodontal disease.
✓ How to optimize this marker
Anti-inflammatory diet: Mediterranean diet, omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA, 2–4 g/day demonstrably lowers hsCRP), antioxidants (polyphenols, curcumin). Reduce excess body weight (adipose tissue is an inflammatory source). Regular aerobic exercise (lowers hsCRP by 20–30%). Quit smoking. Optimize sleep (> 7 hours). Treat periodontal disease. Reduce alcohol.
When to test
Do not measure during or shortly after acute infections (values can rise above 100 mg/l — no longer a cardiovascular marker). No fasting required. Cardiovascular screening: alongside lipid panel from age 45 or with risk factors. If elevated, repeat after 2–4 weeks. Follow-up during lifestyle intervention every 3–6 months.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between CRP and hsCRP? +
Standard CRP detects high-level inflammation (> 5 mg/l) for acute diagnostic purposes. hsCRP can measure values down to 0.1 mg/l and is therefore sensitive for chronic low-grade inflammation. hsCRP is always used for cardiovascular risk screening.
Can omega-3 fatty acids lower hsCRP? +
Yes. Meta-analyses show that high-dose omega-3 (EPA+DHA ≥ 2 g/day) can lower hsCRP by 10–35%, especially with elevated baseline values. The effect becomes visible after 8–12 weeks of supplementation.
How do I distinguish elevated hsCRP from infection versus chronic inflammation? +
In acute infection, CRP rises rapidly to values > 10–100 mg/l and normalizes within days of resolution. Chronically elevated hsCRP typically sits constantly between 1–10 mg/l. Repeating the measurement after 2–4 infection-free weeks clarifies the situation.
Sources
Last Reviewed: May 28, 2026 · sina
This information is for orientation only and does not replace medical advice. Reference ranges can vary by laboratory, method and country.