High C-Reactive Protein (CRP): Nutrients and Supplements That Help

High levels of C-reactive protein in the blood could be cause for concern as the liver produces CRP in response to inflammation.

Some doctors believe that elevated C-reactive protein levels increase a person's likelihood of heart disease or stroke, Healthline noted.

Tests for C-reactive protein are used to help diagnose a variety of conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, inflammation of the heart, infection, and organ and tissue injuries, according to Medical News Today.

While lowering CRP won't guarantee a lowered risk of adverse health conditions, some doctors recommend managing this biomarker with a variety of medicines, diet and supplements, Healthline said, noting that the Mediterranean diet, vitamin C and probiotics may lower CRP levels.

The Mediterranean diet emphasizes plant-based foods, such as fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes and nuts, according to the Mayo Clinic. Healthy fats, such as olive oil and canola oil are recommended to replace butter. The diet favors herbs over salt, and limits red meat to no more than a few times a month. Fish and poultry are recommended at least twice a week, and red wine is optional in moderation.

Treatment with vitamin C significantly reduced CRP among some individuals, according to a study published in 2008 by the National Institutes of Health.

A 2017 study suggested that probiotics also may improve CRP levels, although further studies are needed to control for variables and determine appropriate doses and strains of probiotics.

Curcumin and ginger supplements have been shown to reduce CRP, according to a 2016 Healthline article that recommended them among six supplements to fight inflammation. Others were Alpha-lipoic acid, fish oil, Resveratrol and Spirulina.

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