Myths vs facts: hsCRP and Sport

The question 'Myths vs facts: hsCRP and Sport' touches on an important topic in sports medicine. hsCRP (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein) is an inflammatory marker often linked to cardiovascular risk. A common myth is that exercise always lowers hsCRP. Fact: Regular moderate exercise can reduce hsCRP over time, but acute intense exertion (e.g., marathon) can transiently raise it. Another myth: A low hsCRP automatically means good fitness. In reality, hsCRP is just one marker; it is influenced by infections, smoking, obesity, and stress. Evidence for exercise-induced reduction is human-moderate: meta-analyses show a moderate effect, but individual variability is high. Important: Home hsCRP tests (e.g., MyBody-X) are useful for screening, not diagnosis. Abnormal values require medical follow-up. Safety note: Acute injuries or infections can spike hsCRP – exercise is then contraindicated.