Fibrinogen, also known as Factor I, is a vital protein in your blood that plays a key role in the body’s ability to form clots and stop bleeding. Produced by the liver, fibrinogen acts like a first responder—rushing to the site of an injury to help form a stable blood clot and prevent excessive blood loss. But its role goes beyond just wound healing. Abnormal fibrinogen levels—whether too high or too low—can signal deeper health issues. Elevated fibrinogen may indicate chronic inflammation, infection, or increased risk of cardiovascular events like heart attacks or strokes, as it can contribute to blood thickening and artery blockage. On the other hand, low fibrinogen levels may lead to excessive bleeding, poor wound healing, or point to underlying liver disease or clotting disorders. Because it responds to inflammation, fibrinogen is also considered an acute-phase reactant, meaning it rises when the body is under stress. A simple blood test can check fibrinogen levels and offer valuable insight into your body’s clotting ability, inflammation status, and overall cardiovascular risk. Maintaining a healthy fibrinogen level often comes down to lifestyle—eating anti-inflammatory foods, staying physically active, avoiding smoking, and managing chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure. Though often overlooked, fibrinogen is a critical piece of the puzzle when it comes to understanding your body’s natural defense systems, and monitoring it can be a smart step toward long-term health and disease prevention.