What causes elevated ALT levels in blood tests. How can you naturally lower ALT levels. What lifestyle changes help improve liver health and reduce ALT. Why is the ALT blood test important for diagnosing liver conditions.

What is ALT and Why is it Important?

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is a crucial enzyme found within liver cells. As a key liver enzyme, ALT plays a vital role in breaking down proteins, making them more easily absorbable by the body. When the liver experiences damage or inflammation, ALT can be released into the bloodstream, causing elevated levels. This is why an ALT blood test serves as an important diagnostic tool for identifying potential liver problems.

The significance of ALT in liver health cannot be overstated. Elevated ALT levels often serve as an early warning sign of liver damage or disease. By monitoring ALT levels, healthcare professionals can detect liver issues before they progress to more serious conditions. This early detection capability makes the ALT blood test an invaluable tool in preventive medicine and liver health management.

How is an ALT Blood Test Performed?

An ALT blood test is a straightforward procedure that involves drawing a small sample of blood from a vein, typically in the arm. The sample is then analyzed in a laboratory to measure the concentration of ALT enzymes. The test is usually part of a comprehensive metabolic panel or liver function tests, providing a broader picture of overall health and liver function.

Common Causes of High ALT Levels

Elevated ALT levels can be attributed to various factors, ranging from lifestyle choices to underlying health conditions. Understanding these causes is crucial for effective management and treatment. Here are some of the most common reasons for high ALT levels:

• Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Certain medications, including over-the-counter pain relievers and cholesterol-lowering drugs
• Obesity
• Viral hepatitis (A, B, or C)
• Heart failure
• Hereditary hemochromatosis
• Thyroid disorders
• Some muscle disorders
• Celiac disease

It’s important to note that while these are common causes, elevated ALT levels can sometimes be indicative of rarer conditions. These may include autoimmune hepatitis, alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, or Wilson’s disease. A thorough medical evaluation is necessary to determine the underlying cause of high ALT levels.

Natural Ways to Lower ALT Levels

While addressing the root cause of elevated ALT levels is crucial, there are several natural strategies that may help lower ALT and improve liver health. These methods can be incorporated into daily life as part of a comprehensive approach to liver wellness.

The Coffee Connection: Can It Really Help?

Intriguingly, research has shown a positive correlation between coffee consumption and liver health. Multiple studies have demonstrated that coffee may have a protective effect on the liver and can contribute to lowering liver enzymes, including ALT.

A comprehensive review conducted in 2017 found that consuming 1 to 4 cups of coffee daily can help reduce ALT levels and decrease the risk of liver disease and cancer. This finding was further supported by a 2021 meta-analysis involving over 220,000 participants, which suggested a strong association between coffee consumption and lower ALT levels.

Is the type of coffee important? A recent study investigating the benefits of coffee on liver health concluded that all types of coffee appeared to lower the risk of liver disease. This suggests that whether you prefer espresso, filter coffee, or instant, you may still reap the liver-protective benefits.

Folate and Folic Acid: A Powerful Duo for Liver Health

Another promising strategy for lowering ALT levels involves increasing folate intake or supplementing with folic acid. Both folate and folic acid are forms of vitamin B9, though they differ slightly in their structure and how the body processes them.

Research has established a link between folate deficiency and increased ALT levels, as well as liver damage. Conversely, studies have shown that folic acid supplementation can reduce ALT in individuals with liver damage. A 2017 study even found that folic acid treatment was comparable to, if not more effective than, silymarin in lowering liver enzymes in children with drug-induced liver injuries.

To boost your folate intake, consider incorporating more folate-rich foods into your diet, such as:

• Leafy greens (kale, spinach)
• Asparagus
• Legumes
• Brussels sprouts
• Beets
• Bananas
• Papaya

Alternatively, you might consider a folic acid supplement. Most supplements contain doses of either 400 or 800 micrograms. For potential ALT-lowering benefits, aim for a daily dose of 800 micrograms (0.8 milligrams), as this is the dose often used in studies examining the relationship between folic acid and ALT levels.

Dietary Changes to Support Liver Health and Lower ALT

Making strategic changes to your diet can play a significant role in lowering ALT levels and reducing the risk of liver disease. A healthier diet not only supports liver function but can also address underlying conditions that may be contributing to elevated ALT levels, such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

The Impact of Sugar Reduction

A 2019 clinical trial provided compelling evidence for the benefits of reducing sugar intake on liver health. The study compared the effects of a low-sugar diet and a typical diet in adolescent boys with NAFLD. In the intervention group, sugar was limited to less than 3 percent of the total daily caloric intake. After just 8 weeks, participants following the low-sugar diet showed lower liver enzymes and a greater reduction in liver fat.

Practical Dietary Strategies for Liver Health

Improving your diet doesn’t necessarily require drastic changes. Here are some practical tips to incorporate into your meal planning:

1. Aim for at least five servings of fresh fruits and vegetables daily.
2. Limit fruits and vegetables served with high-calorie sauces or added sugar and salt.
3. Include fish in your diet at least twice a week, preferably those high in omega-3 fatty acids like salmon or trout.
4. Choose fat-free or low-fat milk and dairy products.
5. Replace saturated and trans fats with monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.
6. Opt for fiber-rich whole grains.
7. Select lean animal proteins, such as skinless chicken.

These dietary changes can help reduce fat and carbohydrate intake, which is beneficial for treating and preventing NAFLD, a common cause of high ALT levels.

The Role of Exercise in Lowering ALT Levels

Physical activity plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health, and its benefits extend to liver function and ALT levels. Regular exercise can help reduce liver fat, improve insulin sensitivity, and promote weight loss, all of which can contribute to lower ALT levels.

Types of Exercise Beneficial for Liver Health

Both aerobic exercise and resistance training have shown promise in improving liver health and potentially lowering ALT levels. Here are some exercise options to consider:

• Brisk walking
• Jogging or running
• Swimming
• Cycling
• Weight lifting
• High-intensity interval training (HIIT)

The key is to find activities you enjoy and can sustain over the long term. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week, along with muscle-strengthening activities at least two days a week.

Supplements and Herbal Remedies for Liver Support

While a healthy diet and lifestyle should be the foundation of liver health, certain supplements and herbal remedies may offer additional support in lowering ALT levels. However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, as some can interact with medications or have side effects.

Promising Supplements for Liver Health

Several supplements have shown potential in supporting liver function and potentially lowering ALT levels:

• Milk thistle: Known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, milk thistle has been used for centuries to support liver health.
• N-acetyl cysteine (NAC): This amino acid derivative has shown promise in reducing oxidative stress in the liver.
• Vitamin E: Some studies suggest that vitamin E supplementation may help reduce inflammation and fat accumulation in the liver.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: These essential fats may help reduce liver fat and inflammation.

It’s important to note that while these supplements show promise, more research is needed to fully understand their effects on ALT levels and liver health. Always use supplements under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Lifestyle Modifications for Optimal Liver Health

In addition to dietary changes and exercise, several lifestyle modifications can contribute to lower ALT levels and improved liver health. These changes can have a significant impact on overall well-being and may help address underlying causes of elevated ALT.

Alcohol Consumption and Liver Health

Excessive alcohol consumption is a well-known risk factor for liver damage and elevated ALT levels. If you drink alcohol, consider reducing your intake or abstaining completely. Guidelines for moderate drinking include:

• For women: Up to one drink per day
• For men: Up to two drinks per day

However, for individuals with existing liver conditions or those at high risk, complete abstinence from alcohol may be recommended.

Stress Management and Its Impact on Liver Function

Chronic stress can have negative effects on overall health, including liver function. Implementing stress-reduction techniques can be beneficial for liver health and may help lower ALT levels. Consider incorporating these stress-management strategies into your daily routine:

• Meditation or mindfulness practices
• Deep breathing exercises
• Yoga or tai chi
• Regular physical activity
• Adequate sleep (7-9 hours per night for adults)
• Engaging in hobbies or activities you enjoy

By managing stress effectively, you can help reduce inflammation in the body and support optimal liver function.

When to Seek Medical Attention for High ALT Levels

While lifestyle changes and natural remedies can be effective in lowering ALT levels, it’s crucial to know when professional medical intervention is necessary. Persistently high ALT levels or those accompanied by certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention.

Signs and Symptoms That Require Medical Evaluation

If you experience any of the following symptoms along with known high ALT levels, consult a healthcare provider promptly:

• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• Abdominal pain or swelling
• Chronic fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dark urine
• Pale, bloody, or tar-colored stools

These symptoms could indicate serious liver problems that require immediate medical attention and treatment.

Follow-Up and Monitoring

If you’ve been diagnosed with high ALT levels, regular follow-up appointments and monitoring are essential. Your healthcare provider may recommend periodic ALT tests to track your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed. Consistency in following your prescribed treatment plan and maintaining open communication with your healthcare team are key to managing ALT levels effectively.

Remember, while natural remedies and lifestyle changes can be beneficial, they should complement, not replace, professional medical advice and treatment. Always work closely with your healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive plan for managing your liver health and ALT levels.

What High ALT Levels Mean and How to Lower Them

High levels a liver enzyme known as ALT in the blood can indicate liver issues. Implementing these strategies may help lower ALT levels.

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is an enzyme found inside liver cells. Liver enzymes, including ALT, help your liver break down proteins to make them easier for your body to absorb.

When your liver is damaged or inflamed, it can release ALT into your bloodstream. This causes your ALT levels to rise. A high ALT level can indicate a liver problem, which is why doctors often use an ALT test when diagnosing liver conditions.

Several things can cause high ALT levels, including:

• nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
• over-the-counter pain medications, especially acetaminophen
• prescription medications used to manage cholesterol
• alcohol consumption
• obesity
• hepatitis A, B, or C
• heart failure
• hereditary hemochromatosis, an inherited condition that can lead to liver disease due to iron overload
• thyroid disorders
• some muscle disorders
• celiac disease

Rare causes

Other causes of high ALT levels that are rare include:

• autoimmune hepatitis
• alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, an inherited condition that can lead to lung and liver disease
• Wilson’s disease, an inherited condition that can cause a buildup of copper in the body

Regardless of what’s causing your elevated ALT levels, it’s important to work with your doctor to find and address the underlying cause. But in the meantime, there are a few things you can try that may help lower your ALT levels.

Drink coffee

Several studies have found that coffee may have a protective effect on the liver and that drinking it can lower liver enzymes.

A 2017 review found that drinking anywhere from 1 to 4 cups of coffee per day can help lower ALT levels and reduce the risk of liver disease and cancer.

More recently, the results of a 2021 meta-analysis of 19 observational studies involving 222,067 people also suggested that coffee consumption was associated with lower ALT.

Another recent study into the benefits of coffee on liver health found that all types of coffee appeared to lower the risk of liver disease.

Here are 9 other science-backed benefits of drinking coffee.

Consume more folate or take folic acid

Consuming more folate-rich foods and adding a folic acid supplement to your diet are both linked to lower ALT levels.

While the terms “folate” and “folic acid” are often used interchangeably, they aren’t quite the same. They’re two different forms of vitamin B9.

Folate is a naturally occurring form of B9 found in certain foods. Folic acid is a synthetic form of B9 used in supplements and added to some processed foods. Your body processes them in different ways, too.

While they aren’t quite identical, both folate and folic acid have benefits when it comes to liver health and lowering ALT.

Studies have linked folate deficiency to increased ALT levels and liver damage and found that folic acid appears to reduce ALT in people with liver damage.

A 2017 study found that folic acid appeared to be just as effective as, if not more than, silymarin treatment in lowering liver enzymes in children with drug-induced liver injuries from antiepileptic therapy.

To help lower ALT levels, consider adding more folate-rich foods to your diet, such as:

• leafy greens, including kale and spinach
• asparagus
• legumes
• Brussels sprouts
• beets
• bananas
• papaya

You can also try taking a folic acid supplement. Most folic acid supplements contain doses of either 400 or 800 micrograms. Aim for a daily dose of 800 micrograms, which is the equivalent of 0.8 milligrams.

This is the dose involved in many studies looking at the link between folic acid and ALT levels.

Make changes to your diet

Adopting a healthier diet can help lower ALT levels and reduce your risk of liver disease.

A 2019 clinical trial compared the effects of a low sugar diet and a typical diet in adolescent boys with NAFLD. Sugar in the diet intervention group was limited to less than 3 percent of the total daily caloric intake.

After 8 weeks, those in the diet group had lower liver enzymes and a greater reduction in liver fat.

Reducing the amount of fat and carbohydrates can also help treat and prevent NAFLD, a common cause of high ALT.

To improve liver health and help lower ALT, you don’t necessarily need to make drastic changes to your diet. Start by trying to eat at least five servings of fresh fruits and vegetables per day.

You can also try incorporating these tips into your weekly meal planning:

• Limit fruits and vegetables served with high calorie sauces or added sugar and salt.
• Eat fish at least twice a week, ideally those high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon or trout.
• Opt for fat free or low fat milk and dairy products.
• Replace saturated and trans fats with monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.
• Choose fiber-rich whole grains.
• Opt for lean animal proteins, such as skinless chicken or fish.
• Swap fried foods for baked or roasted ones.
• Snack on nuts, which have various health benefits and have been shown to lower liver enzymes in people with NAFLD.

Learn more about treating fatty liver disease with food.

There is no specific medical treatment for high ALT. Treatment, if any, depends on what’s causing the increase.

Of the 10 percent of people in the United States estimated to have high ALT, less than 5 percent have serious liver disease.

For most causes of high ALT, treatment involves lifestyle changes, such as exercise, a modified diet, and reducing alcohol intake.

Depending on the results of your liver panel and your medical history, your healthcare professional may recommend checking them again at a later date.

If they’re very high or if you have risk factors for liver disease or other symptoms, your doctor may recommend further testing or an appointment with a liver specialist to help diagnose the underlying cause of your high ALT.

Depending on what your healthcare professional suspects, they may recommend any of the following:

• blood tests to check for other conditions, such as hepatitis B and C as well as diabetes
• liver ultrasound
• abdominal CT scan
• biopsy
• thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) test
• creatine kinase (CK) test
• lipid panel
• iron studies to rule out hereditary hemochromatosis

Contact a doctor if a blood test shows you have high ALT. Based on the results of your liver panel, the doctor will advise you on the next steps.

A high ALT level is usually a sign of some type of liver issue. It’s important to work with your doctor to find the underlying cause of your elevated ALT, even if you don’t have any symptoms.

Lowering your ALT will require treating the cause, but certain dietary changes can help.

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) – Pathology Tests Explained

COVID-19 RATs are an example of these types of tests but we are interested in the many others on the market.

The University of Wollongong is conducting a small study about them and we’d like to hear from you if you have used one or considered using one.

Simply complete a short survey at:
https://uow.au1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_eeodpzn8lgSsAbI

From here, we may invite you to take part in a paid interview.

For more information, contact Dr Patti Shih: [email protected]

 

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On This Page
• At a glance
• What is being tested?
• The test
• Common questions
• Related information

At a glance

Also known as

ALT

Why get tested?

To screen for or monitor liver disease

When to get tested?

If your doctor thinks that you have symptoms of a liver disorder

Sample required?

A blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm

Test preparation needed?

None. Inform your health care provider if you are taking any medications as some medicines can affect the result of the test

 

What is being tested?

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is an found mostly in the liver; smaller amounts are also found in the kidneys, heart and muscles. Under normal conditions, ALT levels in the blood are low. When the liver is damaged, ALT is released into the blood stream, usually before more obvious symptoms of liver damage occur, such as (yellowing of the eyes and skin).

How is the sample collected for testing?

A blood sample will be drawn from a vein in the arm.

The Test

How is it used?

The ALT test detects liver injury. ALT values are usually assessed alongside other liver function tests, such as total protein, albumin, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), to help determine which form of liver disease is present.

When is it requested?

A doctor usually requests an ALT test with other laboratory investigations to evaluate a patient who is at risk of or has  of a liver disorder. Some of these symptoms include , dark urine, nausea, vomiting, abdominal swelling, unusual weight gain and abdominal pain. ALT can also be used, either by itself or with other tests, for:

• persons who have a history of known or possible exposure to hepatitis
• those who drink too much alcohol,
• those whose family have a history of liver disease,
• people who take drugs that might damage the liver.

In people with mild symptoms, such as tiredness or loss of energy, ALT may be tested to make sure they do not have chronic (long-term) liver disease. ALT is often used to monitor the treatment of persons who have liver disease, to see if the treatment is working, and may be ordered either by itself or along with other tests.

What does the test result mean?

Very high levels of ALT (more than 10 times the highest normal level) are usually due to (short-term) hepatitis, often due to a . In acute hepatitis, ALT levels usually stay high for about 1–2 months, but can take as long as 3–6 months to return to normal.

ALT levels are usually not as high in hepatitis, often less than 4 times the highest normal level: in this case, ALT levels often vary between normal and slightly increased, so doctors will order the test frequently to see if there is a pattern. In some liver diseases, especially when the ducts are blocked, or when a person has , ALT may be close to normal levels.

Reference Intervals

Adult

Male         5 – 40 U/L

Female     5 – 35 U/L

The reference intervals shown above are known as a harmonised reference interval. This means that eventually all laboratories in Australia will eventually use this same interval so wherever your sample is tested, the reference interval should be the one shown above. Laboratories are in the process of adopting these harmonised intervals so it is possible that the intervals shown on the report of your results for this test may be slightly different until this change is fully adopted. More information can be found under Reference Intervals – An Overview.

Is there anything else I should know?

Certain drugs may raise ALT levels by causing liver damage in a very small percentage of patients taking the drug. This is true of both prescription drugs and some ‘natural’ health products. If your doctor finds that you have a high ALT, tell him or her about all the drugs and health products you are taking.

Common Questions

What is hepatitis?

Hepatitis is an of the liver.  There are two major forms: acute and chronic.  Acute hepatitis is a fast developing disease and typically makes affected persons feel sick, as if they have the flu, often with loss of appetite and sometimes diarrhoea and vomiting. In many cases, acute hepatitis turns urine brown, and colours the skin and eyes yellow. Most affected individuals eventually recover completely. Chronic (long-term) hepatitis usually causes no symptoms, or causes only loss of energy and tiredness; most people don’t know that they have it. In some people, chronic hepatitis can gradually damage the liver and, after many years, cause it to fail.

What other tests are used to evaluate liver disorders?

Other commonly used liver tests include other  found in liver cells, such as aspartate aminotransferase (AST), gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP), as well as bilirubin (a breakdown product from red blood cells removed from the body by the liver and spleen) and albumin (a protein produced by the liver). The doctor will often order these tests together as a group and refer to them as ‘liver function tests’.

Last Review Date: May 16, 2022

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what is it and how does its performance affect health? 1.1.1 What is ALT?

1. 10 Alt and the use of certain drugs

• 1.10.1 Alt and antibiotics
• 1.10.2 Alt and antivirals
• 1.10.3 Alt and antifungals
• 1.10.4 Alt and analgesics
• 1.10.5 Al t and cholesterol-lowering drugs

Alt is an enzyme found in human liver and heart cells. Its level in the blood is measured in a biochemical analysis, and an increase in this indicator may indicate problems with the liver or heart. In our article, you will find detailed information about what ALT is and how its level is related to human health.

Medical blood tests are one of the most effective ways to diagnose various diseases and disorders occurring in the body. One of the main indicators that allow you to determine the state of human health is ALT.

ALT is an alanine aminotransferase, an enzyme that is involved in the process of amino acid metabolism in the body. It is found in the tissues of the liver, heart, muscles and other tissues. When these tissues are destroyed, ALT enters the bloodstream, which makes it possible to determine the level of this enzyme by a biochemical blood test.

ALT levels affect the general condition of the body, so its level can be an indicator of various diseases, such as hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, heart attack, myopathy and other diseases. ALT can also increase with certain medications or as a result of increased exercise.

ALT in a biochemical blood test: definition and norms

What is ALT?

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is an enzyme found in liver cells and other organs, including the heart and muscles. When these organs are affected, ALT is released into the blood, which can be detected using a biochemical blood test. A high level of ALT in the blood can indicate the presence of diseases of the liver, heart and other organs.

ALT blood levels

Normal blood ALT values ​​differ by sex and age. ALT levels can also vary depending on the laboratory that performs the analysis. In general, the average normal range for adult men is 10 to 40 units per liter of blood, and for women, 7 to 35 units per liter of blood. ALT levels can be elevated in some diseases, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, myocardial infarction, and other diseases.

Normal blood ALT levels by age Age group ALT norm, units/l

If ALT levels are higher than normal, this may indicate the presence of diseases of the liver, heart or other organs. However, a high ALT level does not always indicate a serious problem. For example, drinking alcohol, certain medications, and even exercise can temporarily increase blood levels of ALT.

What does an elevated level of Alt (alanine aminotransferase) mean in a biochemical blood test?

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is an enzyme found in body tissues, especially the liver and heart. An elevated ALT level in a biochemical blood test indicates damage or disease to these organs.

Manifestations of only a slight increase in ALT do not have specific symptoms, there may be a feeling of heaviness and pain in the right upper abdomen or slight discomfort. However, if you doubt your state of health, in any case, consult a doctor, he will tell you about further actions.

Normative values ​​of Alt level in the biochemical analysis of blood: Half Norm

Reasons for increasing Alt in biochemical analysis

Altastosis is a condition that is associated with elevated levels of ALT in a person’s blood. It is an indicator of the presence of pathological processes in the liver and other tissues of the body.

Increased levels of Alt in the blood can be observed in diseases such as:

• Hepatitis. This disorder is the most common cause of high blood ALT. Hepatitis A, B, and C are the most common types of hepatitis that cause elevated ALT levels.
• Cirrhosis of the liver. This disease is characterized by the replacement of hepatic tissue with connective tissue, which causes a decrease in liver function.
• Alcoholic liver disease. Long-term alcohol use can cause liver damage and increase Alt.
• Some drugs. Some medications can cause high levels of Alt in the blood.

If the level of Alt is elevated, this may indicate the presence of pathological processes in the body. It is necessary to consult a doctor to identify the causes and take measures to treat the disease.

How to determine the increase in the level of Alt in a biochemical blood test?

Alt is an enzyme found in liver cells and some other body tissues. When the cells are damaged, Alt is released from them into the blood, causing its increased concentration. Measurement of Alt levels is an important biochemical analysis that helps identify diseases of the liver and other organs.

Elevated levels of Alt in the blood can only be detected during a biochemical blood test. This process does not take much time and must take place in the laboratory. Most often, this analysis is prescribed by doctors for suspected liver disease. Your doctor may order the test again to check the results and to track the progress of your treatment.

1. It is important to be prepared for a blood test before taking it. Your doctor can give you specific instructions about what you can and can’t do before the test.
2. The blood test is usually done on an empty stomach. Before the analysis, it is necessary to refrain from eating and drinking for about 8-12 hours.
3. If you have a medical condition or are taking medication, tell the doctor who orders the blood test. Certain medications and medical conditions can affect the results of an ALT blood test.

A gastroenterologist will determine the indications for examinations, prescribe the necessary tests and interpret the results. You can trust him: he carries out diagnostics and treatment at the highest level.

Blood chemistry symptoms of elevated Alt

Alt is an enzyme found in liver cells and in small amounts in the heart, kidneys and pancreas. An elevated ALT level in a biochemical blood test may indicate various diseases.

• Jaundice – The symptom of jaundice may be associated with elevated levels of Alt in the blood. This is due to the fact that a high level of Alt indicates damage to liver cells, which can lead to disruption of its functions and the appearance of jaundice.
• Hepatitis – Elevated ALT levels may be associated with viral hepatitis, which is an infectious disease that affects the liver. Hepatitis can damage liver cells and increase blood levels of Alt.
• Cirrhosis of the liver – this severe disease is characterized by the replacement of healthy liver cells with scar tissue. An elevated Alt level is an indicator that liver cells are damaged and a consequence of cirrhosis.
• Pancreatitis – Elevated Alt together with elevated Amylase on a blood chemistry test may indicate pancreatitis. This is an inflammatory disease of the pancreas that can lead to tissue damage and elevated ALT levels.

If you suspect that you have elevated blood levels of Alt, be sure to visit your doctor for the correct diagnosis and treatment of the relevant conditions.

How is Alt level related to diseases of the liver and biliary tract?

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is an enzyme found in high concentrations in the liver and to a lesser extent in the heart, kidneys, and skeletal muscle. When the cells of these organs are damaged, Alt enters the bloodstream, as a result of which its level increases.

Alt levels are also associated with biliary tract diseases such as cholelithiasis, cholangitis and cholelithiasis. Changes in blood Alt levels can help identify inflammatory processes in the liver, such as steatosis (fatty degeneration) and alcoholic hepatitis.

It should be noted that elevated levels of Alt can be caused not only by diseases of the liver and biliary tract, but also by taking certain medications, intense physical exertion, injuries and operations. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor and undergo additional tests to obtain an accurate diagnosis.

The role of Alt in the diagnosis of heart and muscle diseases

Alanine aminotransferase (Alt) is an enzyme that is a marker of damage to liver cells, but not only. A number of studies have shown that ALT is also involved in the diagnosis of certain diseases related to the heart and muscles.

High levels of Alt may indicate damage to the cardiovascular system, such as myocardial infarction or fibrosis of the heart muscle. Also, in patients with heart disease, an increase in serum ALT is usually observed. However, an increase in Alt often accompanies other blood biochemical parameters, such as AST and LDH.

Altogether, Alt can be a useful indicator of heart and muscle disease, but elevation is not 100% indicative of these diseases. For an accurate diagnosis, additional tests and examination by a doctor are necessary.

How to reduce the level of Alt in the biochemical analysis of blood?

A high level of Alt in a biochemical blood test may be a sign of a pathological process in the liver or another organ. Therefore, in order to reduce the level of Alt, it is necessary to conduct an examination and identify the cause of its increase.

If the doctor has given a recommendation to change the way of life, then it is necessary to follow it and lead a healthy lifestyle. Try to avoid alcohol, smoking, and fatty, fried, and salty foods. Include more fruits, vegetables, grains and proteins in your diet.

Medications can also be taken to help reduce ALT levels. But only after consulting a doctor, as some drugs can cause side effects and have contraindications.

In some cases, if the patient is diagnosed with liver disease, treatment with narrowly targeted drugs may be required. After the course of treatment, it is necessary to periodically undergo control studies to determine the level of ALT and evaluate the effectiveness of treatment.

How to act if the level of Alt in the blood is high

An increase in the level of Alt (alanine aminotransferase) in the blood can be a sign of various diseases of the liver, heart, pancreas and other organs. If you receive blood test results with elevated ALT levels, you should see your doctor for diagnosis and further treatment.

Your doctor may recommend the following steps to determine the cause of your elevated ALT levels:

• Additional blood and urine tests
• Ultrasound of the abdomen and heart
• CT or MRI of organs
• Biopsy of the liver or other affected organs drinking alcohol.

  It is important to remember that self-treatment of elevated ALT levels can be dangerous and lead to poor health.

  Alt and peculiarities of the use of certain drugs

  Alt and antibiotics

  Some antibiotics may cause an increase in Alt in the blood. This is due to toxic effects on the liver, which can lead to hepatitis or cirrhosis of the liver. Representatives of macrolide antibiotics, such as azithromycin and clarithromycin, can cause a similar effect.

  Alt and antivirals

  In the treatment of hepatitis C, drugs are sometimes used that can also increase the level of Alt in the blood. These are antiviral drugs such as Interferon alfa and Ribavirin. There is also a risk of liver toxicity when using ciprofloxacin.

  Alt and antifungal drugs

  Some antifungal drugs can increase blood levels of Alt. For example, fluconazole and itraconazole have a pronounced hepatotoxic effect. In this regard, when using them, it is necessary to control the level of Alt in the blood.

  Alt and analgesics

  Prolonged use of analgesics with acetaminophen may lead to an increase in the level of Alt in the blood. Taking paracetamol and other analgesics can cause dystrophic changes in the liver, which negatively affects the level of Alt.

  Alt and cholesterol-lowering drugs

  Statins are drugs used to lower blood cholesterol levels. However, with prolonged use of statins, an increase in the level of Alt in the blood is possible. This fact may indicate the development of hepatitis or the threat of the development of chronic liver diseases.

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  Q&A:

  What is ALT in a biochemical blood test?

  ALT (alanine aminotransferase) is an enzyme found in the cells of the liver and some other organs. When these cells are damaged, ALT enters the bloodstream, which can be determined in a biochemical blood test.

  What ALT values ​​are considered normal?

  The level of ALT in the blood depends on gender and age. In men, the norm is 10-40 units / l, in women – 7-35 units / l. But keep in mind that some drugs and diseases can affect the performance.

  What diseases can increase the level of ALT in the blood?

  Blood levels of ALT may be elevated in liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, liver cancer, as well as heart disease, muscular dystrophy and other disorders of cellular metabolism.

  What does elevated blood ALT mean?

  Elevated levels of ALT in the blood indicate damage to the cells of the organs that contain this enzyme. The cause may be diseases of the liver, heart and other organs, as well as medication or alcohol.

  What to do with high blood ALT values?

  If the level of ALT in the blood is elevated, you should consult a doctor to clarify the cause. The doctor may prescribe additional tests to identify the disease, as well as recommendations for treatment and lifestyle changes.

  Can ALT levels be low?

  Yes, ALT levels may be below normal, but this is usually not a health problem. Low levels of ALT may be due to low activity of this enzyme, which can occur in acute or chronic liver failure or genetic disorders.

  Alanine aminotransferase (ALT, ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST, AST) – Biochemical blood test – Deciphering tests online

  Alanine aminotransferase (ALT, ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST, AST)

  Liver tests is a set of blood chemistry tests that can be used to evaluate certain functions of the liver. To assess the degree of damage to liver cells (hepatocytes), it is necessary to pass an analysis to determine the level of certain liver enzymes (proteins) in the blood. Damage to the wall of the hepatocyte entails an increased release of liver enzymes into the blood.

  Decipher “Complete blood count”
  Decipher “Common urinalysis”

  Aminotransferases are a group of enzymes that are present in the cells of all internal organs, but are most active in hepatocytes. These include alanine aminotransferase (ALT, ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST, AsAT).

  Aspartate aminotransferase (AST, AST)

  The liver, heart, muscles, kidneys and brain are the organs with the highest amount of AST. This enzyme enters the blood when any of these organs is damaged. For example, the level of AST in the blood increases with heart attacks and muscle injuries. Aspartate aminotransferase is not considered a specific indicator of liver damage. The enzyme is a marker of the destruction of the heart muscle, and its level is assessed in myocardial infarction.

  Alanine aminotransferase (ALT, ALT)

  Alanine aminotransferase is considered a specific indicator of hepatocyte destruction. It predominates to a greater extent in the cytoplasm of liver cells than in the kidneys, myocardium, pancreas or skeletal muscles.

  It must be understood that ALT and AST levels do not always indicate abnormal liver function, although they are included in a group of tests called “liver tests”. Even if ALT and AST are greatly elevated, the liver may still function properly. For an accurate understanding of the reasons for the increase in ALT and AST, it is necessary to consult a doctor.

  ALT and AST limits

  Although reference values ​​for AST and ALT may vary from laboratory to laboratory, the upper limit of normal is typically 40 units per liter of serum (blood fluid) for AST and 50 units per liter of serum for ALT.

  Women tend to have lower levels of transaminases (ALT, AST) than men. In the elderly, AST and ALT levels are usually slightly higher than the normal range for adults.

  In children, the level of ALT and AST in the blood is slightly higher than adult norms – this is not a pathology.

  AST and ALT ranges may vary slightly depending on the technique and protocols used by various laboratories around the world.