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How CRP Genetics Affect Inflammation, Allergies, and Immune Health

The immune system protects you from infections but can sometimes overreact to harmless substances, causing allergies and sensitivities through inflammation. The CRP gene helps control production of C-reactive protein (CRP), a key marker your liver makes during inflammation. Variations in this gene can influence how strongly your body responds to triggers and how much CRP is produced. Knowing your CRP genotype can help you choose diet, lifestyle, and supplement strategies to support balanced immune function and reduce unnecessary inflammation.

How to Read This Report

This article explains what different genotypes for the rs3093066 variant in the CRP gene mean for inflammation and allergy risk, then offers practical suggestions to help manage inflammation. PlexusDx does not provide medical advice. This information is educational only. Always talk with your healthcare provider before making changes to diet, supplements, medications, or treatment plans.

Quick overview: CRP and inflammation

  • CRP (C-reactive protein) is produced by the liver in response to inflammation and infection.
  • Higher CRP levels reflect a stronger inflammatory response and can coincide with more severe allergy symptoms or sensitivity reactions.
  • rs3093066 is a common CRP gene variation. Different genotypes (GG, TG, TT) are associated with differing CRP activity and inflammatory tendency.

Genetic Interpretations

GG genotype — Two effect alleles (higher CRP activity)

If you have the GG genotype for rs3093066 you carry two copies of the effect allele. This is associated with higher CRP gene activity and a genetic tendency toward increased inflammation. You may be more likely to produce higher levels of C-reactive protein when your immune system is triggered. That does not mean you are constantly inflamed, but when exposed to allergens, infections, or other triggers your inflammatory response may be more robust and your allergy symptoms could be more pronounced.

Actionable strategies

  • Follow an anti-inflammatory eating pattern emphasizing omega-3s, colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and lean proteins.
  • Limit processed foods, refined sugars, trans fats, and excessive alcohol which can raise inflammation.
  • Consider supplements that support inflammation management, discussed below, after consulting your clinician.
  • Prioritize stress management, quality sleep, routine moderate exercise, and allergen avoidance when possible.
  • Work with your healthcare provider to monitor CRP or other inflammatory markers if clinically appropriate.
TG genotype — One effect allele (moderately increased CRP activity)

If you have the TG genotype you carry one effect allele and one non-effect allele. This is associated with a modest increase in CRP gene activity and a moderate tendency toward higher CRP production after triggers. You might experience somewhat increased inflammatory responses and slightly more noticeable allergy or sensitivity reactions compared with someone without the effect allele.

Actionable strategies

  • Adopt an anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and abundant colorful produce to provide antioxidants and polyphenols.
  • Reduce intake of processed snacks, sugary beverages, and refined carbohydrates that can encourage inflammation.
  • Use lifestyle tools—sleep, stress reduction, and regular physical activity—to keep inflammatory responses in check.
  • Talk with your healthcare provider about whether targeted supplements or lab monitoring could be useful for your situation.
TT genotype — Zero effect alleles (typical CRP activity)

If you have the TT genotype you do not carry the rs3093066 effect allele associated with increased CRP activity. Your CRP gene functions in a typical way and your body is likely to produce CRP at normal, well-regulated levels when inflammation occurs. This means your genetic predisposition for CRP-driven heightened inflammatory responses is lower compared with the effect allele carriers. You can still develop inflammation from environmental, lifestyle, or other genetic factors, so general inflammation-lowering practices remain beneficial.

Actionable strategies

  • Maintain a balanced, anti-inflammatory dietary pattern to support long-term immune health.
  • Continue healthy lifestyle habits—sleep, movement, and stress management—to minimize triggers that can raise inflammation.
  • If you have symptoms of allergies, sensitivities, or chronic inflammation, review them with your healthcare provider to determine the best evaluation and management plan.

Diet Recommendations to Reduce Inflammation

  • Increase omega-3 fatty acids: fatty fish (salmon, sardines, mackerel), flaxseed, chia seeds, and walnuts.
  • Eat a rainbow of fruits and vegetables daily to supply antioxidants and phytochemicals that counter inflammation.
  • Choose whole grains and fiber-rich legumes rather than refined grains.
  • Prefer lean proteins such as poultry, fish, tofu, and legumes; limit red and processed meats.
  • Use anti-inflammatory herbs and spices like turmeric, ginger, garlic, and cinnamon in cooking.
  • Limit added sugars, sugary beverages, ultra-processed foods, and trans fats which promote inflammatory signaling.
  • Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy body weight to lower baseline inflammation.

Supplement Considerations

Supplements can support an anti-inflammatory approach but should be discussed with your healthcare provider, especially if you take medications or have medical conditions.

  • Omega-3 fish oil or algae-based EPA/DHA: supports resolution of inflammation.
  • Vitamin D: deficiency is linked with immune dysregulation; check levels before supplementing.
  • Turmeric/curcumin: anti-inflammatory properties; choose formulations with enhanced absorption.
  • MSM (methylsulfonylmethane): sometimes used to support joint comfort and inflammation control.
  • Probiotics: support gut microbiome balance which influences systemic inflammation and immune tolerance.

Lifestyle Strategies

  • Manage stress through mindfulness, breathing practices, yoga, or therapy to lower stress-related inflammation.
  • Prioritize consistent, restorative sleep—aim for 7 to 9 hours per night when possible.
  • Engage in regular physical activity—moderate aerobic exercise and resistance training help regulate immune function and inflammation.
  • Avoid tobacco exposure and limit excessive alcohol intake.
  • Identify and avoid known allergens or triggers; consider environmental controls and discussions with an allergist when needed.

When to Talk to Your Healthcare Provider

  • If you have persistent allergy or inflammatory symptoms that affect daily life.
  • If you are considering high-dose supplements, have chronic disease, or take medications that could interact with supplements.
  • If you want laboratory monitoring such as CRP testing or other inflammatory markers to track progress.
  • Before starting new treatment plans based on genetic results.

Final Notes

Your CRP genotype is one piece of the inflammation and allergy puzzle. Environment, diet, lifestyle, other genes, and existing medical conditions all influence your immune responses. Use the strategies above to help lower unnecessary inflammation and support immune balance. PlexusDx does not provide medical advice. This information is educational only. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your medical care, supplements, or treatment plan.