Galectin-3

Specialist

also —

What it isA protein released by activated macrophages that promotes inflammation and tissue fibrosis. It is elevated in failing hearts and aging tissues.

DoesDrives fibroblast activation and scarring across heart, kidney, liver, and lungs.

GoodLow galectin-3 signals minimal active fibrotic remodeling.

BadElevated galectin-3 predicts heart failure progression, cardiovascular mortality, and accelerated aging through tissue fibrosis.

Standard

<17.8 ng/mL.

Optimal

5–12 ng/mL (lower is good)

Modifiers

Rises with age, heart failure, chronic kidney disease, fibrotic lung disease.

How to optimize

Lifestyle: Aerobic and resistance training; address blood pressure and visceral fat; quit smoking.
Diet: Mediterranean pattern; cut ultra-processed food; emphasize polyphenols (berries, olive oil, dark leafy greens, green tea).
Supplements: Modified citrus pectin (15g/day blocks galectin-3 binding), omega-3 EPA+DHA (2–4g/day), curcumin (500mg 2×/day).
Peptides: —
Drugs: ACE inhibitors, ARBs, ARNI, SGLT2 inhibitors, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists in heart failure. --

within Inflammation