What is an optimal hs-CRP level?
The short answer
Optimal hs-CRP is under 1 mg/L, as stated on video.
Most labs call hs-CRP high only above 3. So your report can call 2 normal while it sits above the optimal ceiling.
“I like to see c-reactive protein below 1, even though most labs consider anything below 2 reasonable.”
“I like seeing c-reactive protein below one, ideally below point five.”
What each range means
- under 1 mg/L Optimal
- 1–3 mg/L Normal on most reports. Above optimal“I like seeing c-reactive protein below one, ideally below point five.” Dr. Peter Attia · 3:26 →
- over 3 mg/L Most labs flag this as high
What hs-CRP measures
A protein your liver releases during inflammation. The high-sensitivity test catches it at low levels.
That matters because low-grade inflammation tracks with cardiovascular risk, not just obvious infection.
Checked against MedlinePlus — C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test.
Why it matters, on the record
“if you look at people with very high C reactive protein and again it had to be darn high right above 10 milligrams per liter um their Hazard ratio for all cause mortality is 2.71 meaning they have 171% increase in the risk of all cause mortality”
Common questions
What is an optimal hs-CRP level?
Under 1 mg/L, from a quote on video (Dr. Peter Attia, 4:57).
What is a normal hs-CRP level?
Most US labs print 0–3 mg/L. Your report grades you against that range. It exists to catch disease, not to describe your best.
What does your hs-CRP number mean?
On a typical lab range, up to 3 mg/L is normal and over 3 is high. Your own report prints its range next to your number, and that is the one your lab uses. The optimal range on this page comes with the quote behind it.
Is hs-CRP of 2 normal?
A typical lab range calls it normal. On video, the optimal ceiling is 1 mg/L (Dr. Peter Attia, 4:57), so by that line it is high.
What does the hs-CRP test measure?
A protein your liver releases during inflammation. The high-sensitivity test catches it at low levels. That matters because low-grade inflammation tracks with cardiovascular risk, not just obvious infection.