eirrac

Hi,

Seven years ago, at age 60, my bloodwork came back with a CRP of 6. My cardiologist told me that losing weight and eating low-fat would help, but so would cutting out inflammation-producing foods such as trans fats (found in baked goods, crackers, or anything made or prepared with shortening or other hardened fats, etc.), cut out red meat (including pork in any form), and avoid fried foods in general. He also put me on Lescol temporarily, a statin drug, since my cholesterol was a little high, and he hoped that might reduce the CRP level a little bit too.

I was so scared that I began eating smaller, more frequent meals (five a day), ate chicken, fish + lots of vegetables, and as a result I lost over 50 pounds in ten months. This was amazing, because dieting was always hard for me. I found I was never hungry eating that way, and I would always be able to eat something again in a couple of hours. Later, I went in to have my bloodwork done again, and my CRP level was down to just under 2.0 I was amazed and relieved, because most of the CRP improvement was due to the change in diet! I was able to get off my blood pressure and cholesterol meds, and have kept the weight off ever since. And I still eat the same way I did to lose the weight. I sometimes miss french fries, etc., but can live without them as long as I can have them occasionally.

It is true, I think, that things like arthritis or illness can elevate one's CRP level too. But my change in diet will be permanent. I eat a small amount of red meat, but only now and then. I avoid trans fats; at least now they're listed on food labels, so it's easier to avoid them. I find I don't miss the baked goods with trans fats, and have learned to make cookies and other bakery myself with canola oil instead of shortening or butter. Much healthier. Please don't worry...just try to eat healthier, avoid stress, and do the best you can. The CRP test can only predict inflammation in the body, and can't tell whether it's from sinus, arthritis, or blood vessel inflammation (which is what your doctor was concerned about). My bet is that if you make a few life changes, it will help. If not, then the CRP level may be caused by sinus or something else. In either case, try not to worry. Your doctor is right. Take his advice.