Inflammation has become a hot topic in modern health discussions, particularly because chronic inflammation is linked to a host of diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and autoimmune conditions. When assessing inflammation through bloodwork, many people think of markers like CRP (C-reactive protein) or ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate). However, one marker is gaining recognition for its unique ability to measure systemic inflammation at a deeper level—GlycA.
What Is GlycA & Why Should You Pay Attention To It?
GlycA is a composite biomarker that reflects the level of glycosylated acute-phase proteins in the blood, which are proteins released by the liver in response to inflammation. Unlike CRP, which fluctuates in response to temporary spikes in inflammation (such as during an infection), GlycA gives a more stable and comprehensive picture of chronic systemic inflammation.
GlycA essentially measures the activity of the body’s inflammatory response and how it’s affecting the entire system, making it an important tool for catching chronic low-grade inflammation, which may otherwise go unnoticed until it contributes to more serious conditions.
Why Should You Include GlycA in Your Annual Bloodwork?
More Comprehensive Inflammation Marker: Traditional markers like CRP are more transient and reflect short-term inflammation, while GlycA looks at chronic, low-grade inflammation, which can be present even if CRP and ESR levels appear normal. Chronic inflammation is often a precursor to diseases that develop over time, such as cardiovascular disease or metabolic disorders, so detecting it early can make a huge difference in long-term health outcomes.
Predicts Cardiovascular Risk: GlycA has been associated with increased risk for cardiovascular disease. Elevated levels of GlycA are linked to conditions like atherosclerosis and arterial plaque buildup, making it a valuable tool for predicting and preventing heart disease before it becomes symptomatic.
Tracks Long-Term Health: Unlike other inflammation markers that can spike due to acute conditions like infections or minor injuries, GlycA tends to be more stable. Its long-term readings provide insight into your body’s baseline inflammatory state, making it easier to track how lifestyle changes or interventions are affecting your systemic inflammation levels over time.
The Top 3 Causes of Chronic Inflammation – ie What Causes Elevated GlycA?
While acute inflammation is a natural and necessary immune response, chronic inflammation occurs when this response persists over time, often due to lifestyle factors. Here are the top three contributors:
Poor Diet (High in Processed Foods and Sugars): A diet filled with processed foods, sugars, and trans fats triggers an inflammatory response in the body. These foods promote oxidative stress and disrupt the body’s ability to maintain proper metabolic balance, leading to a constant state of low-grade inflammation.
Chronic Stress: Psychological stress plays a major role in sustaining inflammation. When you’re stressed, your body releases hormones like cortisol, which, in prolonged situations, can lead to increased inflammation and a breakdown in the immune system’s ability to regulate inflammatory responses.
Lack of Physical Activity: A sedentary lifestyle is a direct contributor to systemic inflammation. Physical activity helps regulate metabolism and insulin sensitivity, both of which are vital for controlling inflammation. A lack of movement slows down these processes, leading to a buildup of inflammatory compounds in the body.
Top 3 Most Researched Methods to Lower Inflammation
The good news is that reducing chronic inflammation can significantly improve your health. Here are the top three scientifically-backed methods for lowering inflammation:
Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Transitioning to a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens, fatty fish (rich in omega-3s), nuts, seeds, and antioxidant-rich fruits can drastically reduce inflammation. The Mediterranean diet, in particular, is often recommended for its anti-inflammatory benefits, as it emphasizes whole foods, healthy fats, and nutrient-dense options.
Regular Physical Activity: Exercise is one of the most effective ways to reduce inflammation. Even moderate physical activity like walking, yoga, or swimming can improve insulin sensitivity, reduce oxidative stress, and encourage the release of anti-inflammatory proteins. Research shows that 30 minutes of daily activity can make a significant difference.
Stress Management Techniques: Practices such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing, and yoga are all proven to reduce inflammation by controlling the body’s stress response. These activities reduce cortisol levels, promote relaxation, and prevent the chronic inflammatory response triggered by psychological stress.
As more research reveals the role of chronic inflammation in various diseases, it’s becoming increasingly clear that measuring and managing inflammation is key to long-term health. Including GlycA in your annual bloodwork provides a more precise measurement of systemic inflammation, allowing for early intervention and more effective prevention.