Does coffee increase HS CRP? Separating Fact from Fiction

October 11, 2025 •

3 min read

According to numerous systematic reviews and meta-analyses, there is often an inverse association between coffee consumption and levels of C-reactive protein (CRP). This suggests that moderate intake of coffee may help reduce chronic inflammation, a finding that challenges earlier assumptions and directly answers the question: does coffee increase HS CRP?.

Quick Summary

Studies suggest moderate coffee consumption is associated with lower HS-CRP levels, though individual response varies based on genetics and preparation methods.

Key Points

Inverse Relationship: Moderate coffee consumption is consistently linked to lower levels of HS-CRP, not higher.
Antioxidant Power: The anti-inflammatory effects are largely due to coffee's high content of antioxidants like polyphenols and chlorogenic acid.
Preparation Matters: Filtered coffee is generally better for inflammation and cholesterol, as the filter removes diterpenes found in unfiltered brews.
Genetics Play a Role: Individual metabolism, influenced by genetics, determines how you respond to caffeine and coffee's inflammatory effects.
Moderation is Key: Excessive coffee intake can disrupt sleep and add unnecessary calories from sugary additives, which can increase inflammation.
Decaf is Also Beneficial: Decaffeinated coffee offers similar anti-inflammatory benefits from its polyphenols without the stimulating effects of caffeine.
Consult a Doctor: Those with pre-existing inflammatory conditions should consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice on coffee consumption.

What is HS-CRP?

High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) is a blood test marker for inflammation in the body. Elevated levels can indicate the presence of chronic, low-grade inflammation, which is linked to a higher risk of conditions like cardiovascular disease. Early research on coffee's effects on the body raised concerns that it might contribute to inflammation. However, a deeper understanding of coffee's complex composition and more robust research has painted a different picture.

The Anti-Inflammatory Compounds in Coffee

Contrary to the idea that coffee increases inflammation, the beverage contains a multitude of bioactive compounds that possess potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds work to neutralize free radicals and suppress inflammatory pathways within the body. Both regular and decaffeinated coffee contain these beneficial components.

Polyphenols: These are plant-based compounds known for their antioxidant effects. Chlorogenic acid is a prominent polyphenol in coffee that helps protect cells from damage and reduces oxidative stress, a key driver of inflammation.
Chlorogenic Acid (CGA): This specific polyphenol is highly concentrated in coffee and has been credited with significant anti-inflammatory effects. Studies show that CGA can help reduce the levels of inflammatory markers like IL-6.
Diterpenes: Compounds like cafestol and kahweol are known for their anti-inflammatory abilities. However, they can also affect cholesterol levels, depending on how the coffee is prepared.

The Verdict: Most Research Points to a Positive Effect

Multiple large-scale studies and meta-analyses have investigated the link between coffee intake and CRP levels. The evidence overwhelmingly points toward an inverse relationship—meaning those who drink coffee tend to have lower CRP levels than non-drinkers. A comprehensive meta-analysis involving over 66,000 subjects found a linear inverse association, with higher coffee consumption linked to lower CRP levels. A study on Korean adults also noted that moderate black coffee consumption (2-3 cups/day) was inversely associated with high CRP levels.

The Nuances: Factors that Influence Coffee's Effect

While the general trend is positive, coffee's impact is not universal. Several factors can modulate its anti-inflammatory effects.

How You Brew it Matters

The preparation method is a crucial factor, mainly due to the presence of diterpenes like cafestol and kahweol.


Feature	Filtered Coffee	Unfiltered Coffee (e.g., French Press)
Effect on CRP	Generally anti-inflammatory due to antioxidant content.	Potential for varying effects, though antioxidants still present.
Effect on Cholesterol	Little to no effect, as filters remove most diterpenes.	Can increase LDL cholesterol due to higher diterpene content.
Diterpene Content	Low	High

Individual Metabolism and Genetics

Genetics play a significant role in how individuals respond to coffee. Variations in the CYP1A2 gene affect caffeine metabolism, influencing whether someone is a fast or slow metabolizer.

Fast Metabolizers: These individuals process caffeine quickly and are more likely to experience the anti-inflammatory benefits without negative side effects.
Slow Metabolizers: These individuals take longer to process caffeine, which can lead to increased heart rate, anxiety, and potentially higher inflammation levels, especially with excessive intake.

Impact of Additives and Excessive Intake

While coffee itself is often beneficial, what is added to it can change the outcome. Excessive sugar, artificial sweeteners, and certain dairy products can counteract coffee's anti-inflammatory effects and promote inflammation. Additionally, excessive caffeine intake can lead to poor sleep quality, which is itself a significant driver of inflammation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the question, 'Does coffee increase HS CRP?' is generally answered with a 'no' for most people, especially when consumed in moderation. The rich antioxidant profile of coffee, particularly its polyphenols, is the main driver of its anti-inflammatory effects. However, the interaction between coffee and inflammation is not a simple one. The type of coffee, preparation method, and an individual's unique genetics all play a significant role in the overall effect. For the best chance at experiencing anti-inflammatory benefits, moderate consumption of filtered, black coffee is recommended. As with any dietary habit, listening to your body's response and consulting a healthcare provider, especially if you have an inflammatory condition, is always the best approach. More studies are warranted to explore these nuances and provide definitive evidence for specific populations.

For more information, read the Journal of Nutrition article on the association between coffee and CRP.

Frequently Asked Questions

It is generally not recommended to drink coffee or consume caffeine before a CRP test. For accurate results, always follow your doctor's pre-test instructions, which often include fasting for a period before blood work.

Yes, adding excessive sugar can increase chronic inflammation. While a little milk may have a minimal effect on coffee's anti-inflammatory properties, sugary additives can counteract the benefits, and it's best to limit or avoid them.

Yes, decaffeinated coffee contains the same beneficial anti-inflammatory antioxidants, like polyphenols, as regular coffee. This means it can offer similar health benefits without the potential negative side effects of caffeine sensitivity.

While it varies by individual, moderate coffee consumption is often defined as 3 to 4 cups (or up to 400 mg of caffeine) per day. This level is associated with the most robust health benefits.

Yes, some individuals, especially those who are slow metabolizers of caffeine or have certain health conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, may experience increased inflammation from coffee. Listening to your body is important.

Filtered coffee is generally seen as more beneficial for inflammation and cholesterol. Unfiltered coffee, like from a French press, contains diterpenes that can slightly increase cholesterol, though the anti-inflammatory antioxidants remain.

Yes, green (unroasted) coffee contains higher levels of chlorogenic acid, a potent anti-inflammatory compound, compared to roasted coffee. The roasting process can reduce the total antioxidant activity.

No, the anti-inflammatory effects are primarily attributed to coffee's antioxidants, such as polyphenols, not the caffeine itself. Decaffeinated coffee provides similar benefits, further supporting this conclusion.