CRP is C-reactive protein. It is a globular protein that indicates the presence of inflammation. High CRP levels are associated with heart disease and a variety of health problems. A study appearing in the American Journal of Epidemiology (2009; 170(4): 464-71) looked at non-smokers between the ages of 20 and 29 and the relationship between serum ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and CRP levels. Vitamin C intake was assessed by dietary intake questionnaire. Serum vitamin C (ascorbic acid) was measured from overnight fasting blood samples, utilizing liquid chromatography. Of the sample, 33% had suboptimal levels of vitamin C and 14% had a vitamin C deficiency. Those with low vitamin C levels tended to have higher CRP levels. Vitamin C deficiency was also associated with higher BMI (body mass index), higher blood pressure and higher waist circumference. Those with lower vitamin C intake on the dietary questionnaires tended to have lower serum ascorbic acid levels. This is just another indicator that diet can affect risk factors for various health problems.