Faecal Calprotectin
Inflammation marker
Calprotectin
Faecal Calprotectin
A neutrophil-derived protein measured in stool that reflects inflammation of the gut lining. It is used to distinguish inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's, ulcerative colitis) from non-inflammatory conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, and to monitor disease activity.
PED Notes
Faecal calprotectin is not affected by AAS, GH, or peptides directly, but gut symptoms are common in enhanced athletes and this test helps separate serious inflammation from benign causes. High-dose NSAID use for training aches can inflame the gut and raise calprotectin, and very high protein intakes, aggressive cutting diets, and some supplements can provoke GI symptoms. A normal calprotectin makes inflammatory bowel disease unlikely and points toward irritable bowel syndrome; a high result warrants proper gastroenterology work-up rather than self-treatment. The bodybuilder range equals the standard range.
When high
When elevated (>50 ug/g):
- A raised faecal calprotectin indicates intestinal inflammation. The classic concern is inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis), but it also rises with gut infections, NSAID-induced enteropathy, and coeliac disease.
- What to do:
- Stop or minimise NSAIDs (ibuprofen, diclofenac and similar), a common and reversible cause of raised calprotectin in athletes; retest after a washout.
- Seek gastroenterology review, especially with persistent diarrhoea, blood in the stool, unintended weight loss, or nocturnal symptoms.
- Higher levels (for example above 150-250 ug/g) more strongly suggest inflammatory bowel disease and usually prompt colonoscopy.
- Do not attribute ongoing bowel symptoms to diet or supplements alone when calprotectin is elevated.
History Chart
Reading History
Frequently Asked Questions
Reference Ranges
Standard Range
VitalMetrics Range