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Inflammation

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

In the UK, the standard clinical (NHS) reference range for hs-CRP (High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein) is Below 3.0 mg/L, with Below 1.0 mg/L considered the performance-optimised range. A result within these ranges suggests typical status; only a qualified clinician can interpret an individual reading.

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.

Last reviewed: 11 June 2026

Optimal Ranges

What is the optimal range for hs-CRP?

Clinical (NHS) Range

Below 3.0 mg/L

mg/L

Performance-Optimised Range

Below 1.0 mg/L

mg/L

hs-CRP (High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein) reference ranges (UK)
RangeValueUnit
Clinical (NHS) reference rangeBelow 3.0 mg/Lmg/L
Performance-optimised rangeBelow 1.0 mg/Lmg/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. A result in either range suggests typical status and is not a diagnosis; any individual reading should be interpreted by a qualified clinician.

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

What are the symptoms of low or high hs-CRP?

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

Which foods 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

How do you improve hs-CRP levels?

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.

Testing

How is hs-CRP tested in the UK?

hs-CRP is measured from a blood sample. With Helvy, that means a finger-prick kit taken at home and posted to a UKAS-accredited UK laboratory, with results in around 5 days, reviewed by a qualified clinician. Your result is reported against both the clinical range (Below 3.0 mg/L) and the performance-optimal range (Below 1.0 mg/L), so you can see not just whether you are “normal” but whether you are optimal. If you make a change, retest after 8-12 weeks to confirm it worked.

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

Explore hs-CRP in depth

Inflammation Blood Test UK

CRP, hs-CRP & ESR explained

Heart Health Blood Test

Why cholesterol alone isn't enough

The Best Blood Tests for Longevity

15 science-backed biomarkers

Athlete Blood Test UK

Recovery & inflammation markers

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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.