And, while scientists are unaware if reducing the level would decrease the risk of heart disease, some cardiologists say almost all patients--whether they feel they are healthy or not--can benefit from knowing their level.
For example, one man who had his levels checked as a preventative measure received shocking results. Other than being a smoker, the man was healthy, stayed trim, exercised every day, did not take any prescription drugs and had low blood pressure and cholesterol. However, after being tested twice, the man's CRP levels were a higher-than-normal 3.1, signifying an elevated risk of heart disease. And quitting his smoking habit would only bring his levels down a mere one-half of a point.
The Role of CRP
CRP measures inflammation and is made in the liver and in cells lining blood vessels. Levels of the protein rise with factors that make heart disease more probable, such as:
Conversely, levels fall when patients lose weight, stop smoking and get their diabetes and cholesterol under control.
Whether CRP is an indicator or an instigator of heart disease remains under investigation: Infectious-disease specialists noted the protein is part of the body's way of fending off microbial invaders, while other research suggests CRP contributes to rupturing plaque and forming blood clots that block arteries--two components of a heart attack.
New York Times January 11, 2005
USA Today January 6, 2005
You may remember an article I previously ran in the newsletter about the benefits of having your blood tested for CRP. CRP appears to be an outstanding way to screen for the "hidden" inflammation that is connected with heart disease and cancer. I have also posted a number of blogs pertaining to this issue.
The underlying problem regarding CRP, however, is that doctors are aware that it exists but are uncertain whether reducing it is at all helpful. In fact, some physicians remain rather ambivalent about it. They don't pay much attention to CRP and instead focus their attention on lowering cholesterol levels by prescribing virtually worthless (from a health perspective) and dangerous statins.
I used to be somewhat ambivalent about CRP myself, until recently when I decided to start performing this inexpensive test on all patients who come to my clinic to measure arterial inflammation. It truly is a worthwhile test, as it allows you understand if your health is in good standing or needs some assistance.
Preventing High CRP Levels
I urge you to follow these healthy guidelines to preventing high CRP levels so that you may reduce your risk of heart disease and other illnesses:
One of the most important steps in lowering high your CRP levels is to take a high-quality fish oil or cod liver oil that is chock full of beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. It is important to find a fish or cod liver oil that is independently tested by a lab and found to conform to the highest purity guidelines. This will ensure that the oil is free of mercury and other toxins. One such brand, which I have found to be of superior quality, is Carlson's fish and cod liver oil You can find Carlson’s and other good brands at your local health food store. If this is a problem for you, for your convenience we also carry these in our store.
Optimize your diet based on your body's unique metabolic type (take our free online test to determine yours now). In understanding your metabolic type, you will learn the right (and wrong) foods to fight and prevent disease and improve the way you feel--physically and emotionally. Remember, the foods that are healthy for you may not necessarily be healthy for others, and vise-versa. (Learn more about eating properly and understanding your metabolic type through my Total Health Program.)
Limit or eliminate your intake of grains and sugars--avoidance of these foods will lower insulin levels. If you are experiencing symptoms such as excess weight, low blood sugar and high blood pressure, chances are very good that the excess carbohydrates in your body are to blame. We all need a certain amount of carbohydrates, but through our addiction to grains, potatoes, sweets and other starchy and sugary foods, we are consuming far too many, forcing us to sacrifice our health.
Start an exercise program that is tailored to your body's specific needs. When you exercise you increase your circulation and the blood flow throughout your body. The components of your immune system are also better circulated, which means your immune system has a better chance of fighting an illness before it has the opportunity to spread. A great motivational tool I recommend, which challenges you to take control of your health and gives you the steps to designing your own individual nutrition and exercise program, is Paul Chek's book, How to Eat, Move and Be Healthy!
Avoid harmful habits like smoking, which jeopardize your health. One way to help you quit such habits is to use the energy psychology tool Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT). EFT uses simple tapping with the fingertips to input kinetic energy onto specific meridians on the head and chest while you think about your specific problem. Voice positive affirmations are also incorporated into this technique. For more information on this subject, you can view my free EFT manual.
By following the above guidelines, I assure you that not only will you maintain healthy CRP levels, but you will also move towards optimal health and wellness.
Related Articles:
Does Inflammation Predict Colon Cancer? Exercise Lowers Levels of Bloodborne Heart Attack Indicator Terror Fears Raise Heart Disease Another Marker to See If You Are at Risk for Heart Disease New Dietary Guidelines to Prevent Heart Disease Vitamin E Reduces Heart Disease
Does Inflammation Predict Colon Cancer?
Exercise Lowers Levels of Bloodborne Heart Attack Indicator
Terror Fears Raise Heart Disease
Another Marker to See If You Are at Risk for Heart Disease
New Dietary Guidelines to Prevent Heart Disease
Vitamin E Reduces Heart Disease