I've told you in the past that C-reactive protein (CRP) is an indirect measure of inflammation in your body. If your levels are high, it means you're at significant risk for vascular disease. I've also told you that I can easily lower it in almost 100% of the cases with curcumin. But there's now a no-cost way to control it that's just as effective!

A recent study looked at people with other risk factors for heart disease. These include diabetes, obesity, or hypertension. The researchers found that people who consume 20 or more grams of fiber daily have about one-third less CRP than those consuming 8.8 grams per day or less.

The researchers found no correlation with the consumption of other food components such as fat, unsaturated fat, protein, carbohydrates, or fish oil. Interestingly, the scientists were savvy enough to mention that it might not just be dietary fiber. They said it could be other nutrients that travel along with fiber, such as magnesium, that help lower CRP.

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So if your CRP levels are high, it could mean you're not getting enough fiber in your diet. We already know low fiber can contribute to colon cancer. Now we see that it can also cause vascular problems. All you have to do to lower your risk is increase the amount of fruits and vegetables you eat. That's where you'll find the fiber and "other nutrients" that will do more for you than just lower CRP.

Family Practice News 12-15-05