How to test your liver health

Your liver is an organ that plays a role in over 500 functions in your body. You can check your liver health with a home blood test. Alcohol, being overweight, an unhealthy diet, and certain medications can affect your liver health.

What is the liver?

The liver is an organ that sits in the upper part of your stomach and is essential for your health. It plays a role in over 500 functions in your body. These include:

• creating bile acids — helps you digest food
• breaking down and storing nutrients
• detoxifying your blood
• fighting infections
• helping your blood to clot
• maintaining hormone balances
• regulating blood sugar levels

Where is your liver?

The liver is the second largest organ in your body. It sits in the upper part of your stomach, on the right side of your abdomen.

What is a liver blood test?

A liver blood test was formerly known as a liver function test or LFT. The name has changed to reflect new guidance from the British Liver Trust published in 2022, reporting that a liver blood test can’t diagnose or rule out liver disease when analysed on its own.

This means your liver blood test results might be normal even if you have liver disease. But it’s important to note that many people with abnormal liver blood test results don’t have liver disease.

What can a liver blood test tell you?

A liver blood test measures the levels of various things in your blood, like proteins, liver enzymes, and bilirubin. This can help check the health of your liver and for signs of inflammation or damage.

Your liver can be affected by:

• liver infections — like hepatitis B and hepatitis C
• non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
• alcohol-related liver disease
• scarring on your liver (cirrhosis)
• gallbladder disease
• possible side effects of medications and herbal remedies — like St John’s Wort
• haemochromatosis — when your body stores too much iron
• autoimmune conditions — when your body reacts and attacks itself

Who should do a liver blood test?

A liver blood test might be helpful if you:

• have symptoms of fatigue and nausea
• drink more than 14 units of alcohol a week
• are worried about fatty liver disease
• are overweight
• have type 2 diabetes
• have raised cholesterol
• have a genetic disease — like haemochromatosis
• are taking medications which affect your liver

When doing this blood test, one of our reporting GPs will review your:

• previous liver blood test results (if you have any)
• health profile 
• body mass index (BMI)
• alcohol consumption
• diet

What’s included in a liver blood test?

Liver proteins

The main proteins measured in a liver blood test are:

• albumin — helps transport nutrients and hormones, as well as helps grow and repair tissues in your body
• globulin — helps your blood clot and fights infections
• total protein — this is your albumin and globulin levels combined

Liver enzymes

The main enzymes measured in a liver blood test are:

• alkaline phosphatase (ALP) — helps break down proteins so your body can absorb them
• alanine transferase (ALT) — also helps break down proteins
• gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) — helps detoxify drugs and alcohol

Bilirubin

Bilirubin is a yellow pigment. When your red blood cells break down, bilirubin is what’s leftover. It’s a waste product with no known function in your body.

The signs and symptoms of a liver disorder might include:

• tiredness and fatigue
• loss of appetite
• weight loss
• low sex drive (libido)
• jaundice — when you have too much bilirubin, it causes yellow skin and eyes, and itchy skin
• nausea and vomiting
• diarrhoea
• abnormal bruising and bleeding
• abdominal pain
• a build-up of fluid in your abdomen

You must see your doctor and check your liver health if you have these symptoms.

How do you check your liver health?

You can check your liver health by using a liver blood test in the comfort of your own home. 

Regularly checking your liver health is particularly beneficial if you:

• drink a lot of alcohol — it’s best to drink no more than 14 units a week (roughly 6 pints of beer or 6 medium glasses of wine)
• carry excess weight, or you’re obese
• have diabetes
• have high blood pressure
• have high triglyceride levels (fats in your blood)
• have haemochromatosis — a build-up of iron in your body

If your liver blood test results are out of range, your doctor might do an ultrasound scan or biopsy to check for liver damage.

What if your liver blood test results contain abnormalities?

Mild to moderate abnormalities in your liver blood test results are commonly associated with: 

• non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
• alcohol-related liver disease — for example, you might have elevated gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) levels
• certain medication — like some antibiotics, anti-epileptic drugs, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen
• infections like hepatitis B and C

If your liver blood test results are abnormal, we recommend following them up with a healthcare professional. They will investigate your results further to help rule out or diagnose liver disease. 

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends a FibroScan if you drink more than 50 units of alcohol a week for men or 35 units or more a week for women. 

A FibroScan is a non-invasive medical device that checks for liver fibrosis and cirrhosis (scarring) by measuring how stiff your liver is.  

Interpreting your liver blood test results

Since a liver blood test measures many different health markers, it can help pick up many issues. High or low levels of specific proteins and enzymes can indicate a problem with your liver.

Albumin

If your liver or kidneys aren’t working properly, it can cause your albumin levels to drop. This might be caused by a poor diet, an infection, kidney disease, or inflammation.

Normal albumin levels range from 35-50 g/L.

Globulin

Many conditions can cause your globulin levels to increase or decrease. 

Low protein, globulin, and albumin levels might suggest: 

• liver disease
• kidney disease
• malnutrition or malabsorption

High globulin, protein, and albumin levels could indicate: 

• dehydration
• an infection
• inflammation

There’s a phenomenon in cirrhosis when your albumin levels are low, and your globulin is high.

Normal globulin levels range from 19-35 g/L.

Total protein (albumin and globulin)

Low total protein levels can signify a liver or kidney disorder. It might also signify that you’re not absorbing food properly, like in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or coeliac disease.

High total protein levels can signify dehydration, chronic inflammation or an infection like viral hepatitis. It’s rare, but it can also be a sign of a bone marrow disorder or HIV.

If you have cirrhosis, your total protein levels might be normal — this is because globulin rises as albumin levels fall.

Normal total protein levels range from 63-87 g/L.

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP)

High ALP levels can signify liver inflammation, damage to your gallbladder, or bone disease. Raised levels can also happen during puberty and pregnancy.

An ALP level under 130 IU/L is considered normal for men and women.

Alanine transferase (ALT)

ALT is mainly found in your liver, so it’s a good indicator of your liver health. A high ALT level can be a sign of liver damage. An ALT level between:

• 15-50 IU/L is considered normal for men
• 10-35 IU/L is considered normal for women

Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT)

High GGT levels can be a sign of liver damage or disease. If you drink large amounts of alcohol for a long period of time, your GGT levels usually increase.

A GGT level:

• under 71 IU/L is considered normal for men
• under 42 IU/L is considered normal for women

Bilirubin

High bilirubin levels can be a sign that your liver is damaged. If you drink excessive amounts of alcohol, take certain medications, or if you’re destroying more red blood cells than usual (haemolysis), it can increase your levels. Sometimes it might be caused by Gilbert’s syndrome — a harmless inherited disorder.

A bilirubin level:

• under 24 umol/L is considered normal for men
• under 15 umol/L is considered normal for women

What affects your liver health?

How alcohol affects your liver

Drinking too much alcohol can lead to alcohol-related fatty liver disease (ARLD). This is because alcohol can increase the levels of fats in your liver. Research suggests this might result from waste products in alcohol that cause your liver to make more fatty acids.

If you stop drinking alcohol or lower your intake to a safe level, your liver usually repairs itself. If you keep drinking a lot, your liver will become inflamed. And over a few years, this can cause permanent scarring on your liver (cirrhosis) and can lead to liver failure.

How weight affects your liver 

Being overweight or obese can also cause fatty liver disease, called nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Other risk factors for NAFLD include:

• high cholesterol or triglycerides
• high blood pressure
• type 2 diabetes
• smoking
• lack of exercise

Like with ARLD, NAFLD can cause permanent damage to your liver if left untreated for years.

How do drugs affect your liver?

Some common drugs, like acetaminophen (paracetamol) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (aspirin and ibuprofen), can cause serious damage to your liver. This can happen if you take too much of it in one go or take high doses over a longer period. 

Avoid using these drugs to treat your hangover symptoms until all the alcohol is out of your system. It takes your body approximately 1 hour to clear one unit of alcohol. They interfere with your liver and can cause severe side effects, even death.

Other drugs that can affect your liver include:

• steroids — a type of anti-inflammatory medicine used to treat various conditions
• antibiotics — used to treat or prevent some types of bacterial infection
• statins — used to help lower the level of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in your blood
• antifungal drugs — used to treat fungal infections that commonly affect your skin, hair, and nails
• antiviral drugs — used to help your body fight off harmful viruses

It’s important to always consult with your doctor when taking any medication. If a possible side effect of the medication is liver damage, you should do regular liver blood tests.

How diet affects your liver 

Your diet has a significant effect on your liver health. The worst foods for your liver include:

• saturated and trans fats — like fried foods, red meat, cakes, pastries, and cream
• refined carbohydrates — like white bread and white pasta
• added sugars — like fruit juices, fizzy drinks, and sweets
• salt — like frozen foods, salted nuts, and smoked or cured meats

How to improve your liver health

The good news is that it usually takes years for permanent liver damage to develop. So if you catch it early enough, you can make many lifestyle changes so your liver can repair itself.

To improve your liver health and long-term health, you should:

• limit the amount of alcohol you have a week to 14 units — that’s equivalent to 6 pints of beer or 6 medium glasses of wine. If you can, it’s best to stop drinking altogether
• lose weight if you’re overweight or obese
• follow a healthy, balanced diet — like the Mediterranean diet
• make sure you get enough exercise — aim for a mix of aerobics and activities to improve your fitness
• drink some coffee — some studies have shown that caffeine can help improve your liver health
• avoid excess sugary food and sweet drinks

What they are, and how and why to lower them

Elevated liver enzymes can indicate a problem in the liver. However, eating a balanced diet and regularly exercising are some of the ways a person can lower liver enzyme levels.

The liver contains different enzymes, such as alanine transaminase (ALT), that help the body function properly. When these enzymes exceed their normal levels, the liver begins to malfunction, affecting a person’s overall well-being.

This article looks at how to reduce liver enzyme levels and what happens when they are high. It also covers the major causes of high liver enzymes and the effect this has on the body.

Many factors could lead to high liver enzymes, so it is important to tell a doctor as soon as symptoms arise. Aside from that, there are other things to try that may help lower liver enzymes.

Drink coffee

A 2017 review found that coffee may protect the liver by lowering liver enzymes.

Another study from 2017 found that drinking 1 to 4 cups of coffee daily can lower liver enzymes, particularly ALT levels, which reduces the risk of liver disease and cancer.

Increase folate consumption

Introducing folate-rich food to the diet and taking folic acid supplements can help lower elevated liver enzymes.

One 2016 study linked folate deficiency with increased ALT levels and liver damage and found that folic acid reduced ALT levels in people with liver damage.

Examples of folate-rich food include:

• dark leafy greens
• bananas
• nuts
• beans
• seafood
• eggs
• dairy

A person can also take a folate supplement if they find it difficult to get sufficient amounts through their diet.

Exercise more

A 2015 study found that 8 weeks of aerobic training and resistance exercise helped in reducing hepatic fat content and elevated liver enzymes in people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Eat healthier

Eating a balanced diet can help in lowering elevated liver enzymes, which reduces the risk of getting a liver disease.

In 2019, a clinical trial found that consuming a low sugar diet for 8 weeks reduced liver enzymes in adolescent boys with NAFLD compared with those on a standard diet.

Generally, cutting down on fats and carbohydrates can help in preventing NAFLD, which is a common cause of high liver enzymes.

Stop smoking

A 2020 study found that people who smoked had a higher risk of liver disease or cancer.

Older research also reports that smoking can increase levels of the liver enzymes gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP), which leads to liver damage.

Reduce alcohol consumption

Cutting down on alcohol or giving up alcohol altogether can improve a person’s liver enzyme count, even in the short term.

According to a 2018 study, giving up alcohol for as little as 1 month may significantly reduce levels of GGT.

Liver enzymes are substances that hasten chemical reactions in the body. Some of these chemical reactions include the secretion of bile and other substances to help with blood clotting, the breakdown of toxins and food, and the response to infections. Examples of these liver enzymes are:

• alanine transaminase (ALT)
• alkaline phosphatase (ALP)
• aspartate transaminase (AST)
• gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT)

When the liver sustains an injury, it releases its enzymes — mostly ALT or AST — into the bloodstream. An excess of these enzymes can hinder the body’s functioning.

Having elevated liver enzymes means the level of liver enzymes in the blood is higher than normal.

Although these high levels could be temporary, they may indicate that a person may have underlying medical conditions such as hepatitis or liver disease. Also, some drugs, such as acetaminophen, can cause elevated liver enzymes.

A doctor may check a person’s liver enzyme level if there are signs of a liver injury, disease, or damage. The doctor will usually check these enzymes through a liver function test (LFT).

An LFT is a blood test that screens the liver for infections such as hepatitis, determines how well a treatment is working, and checks the side effects of medications.

However, LFTs typically only include AST, ALT, ALP, total bilirubin, and albumin and do not determine the cause of elevated liver enzymes.

If the result of an LFT shows that a person has elevated liver enzymes, a doctor will try to determine the possible causes. They may also carry out other tests that give more details on the person’s lifestyle and eating habits.

According to research, fatty liver disease is the most common cause of elevated liver enzymes, occurring in about 25–51% of people who receive a diagnosis of high liver enzymes.

Other health conditions that may cause high liver enzymes include:

• metabolic syndrome
• hepatitis
• cirrhosis (liver tissue scarring)
• alcohol or drug use disorder

Some less common causes of high liver enzymes include:

• autoimmune hepatitis
• celiac disease
• liver cancer
• mononucleosis
• sepsis, or blood poisoning
• Wilson’s disease
• hemochromatosis, when the body absorbs too much iron
• polymyositis (inflammation of the muscles)

Some medications, such as pain killers (acetaminophen), can cause high liver enzymes. Although high liver enzymes are asymptomatic, the causes may contribute to the signs and symptoms.

Non-liver causes

Sometimes, an elevated liver enzyme count may be due to a non-liver condition, such as:

• heart attack
• hypothyroidism
• heart failure
• polymyositis (inflammation of the muscles)

A high level of liver enzymes could stem from various conditions, such as liver disease, liver injury, or the side effect of a medication. High liver enzymes may also be temporary.

Talk with a doctor if a liver function test shows a high liver enzyme level. A doctor can discuss with a person the possible causes of their high liver enzymes and how best to tackle them.

A person is at a greater risk of liver damage or injury if their liver enzyme levels are high. There are various underlying conditions that can influence liver health.

For this reason, doctors use a special blood test — an LFT — to check for signs of elevated liver enzymes.

Having high liver enzymes does not typically produce symptoms, which is why doctors may check for symptoms of other conditions known to increase liver enzyme levels.

If a person’s LFT result is positive, then the doctor will determine the cause and recommend the right treatments for the diagnosis.

liver tests for liver enzymes

Contents

• 1 Liver tests: alat and asat in the blood – what does it mean and what conclusions can be drawn
  • 1.1 Liver enzymes: what are they?
  • 1.2 Liver tests
  • 1.3 Alat and Asat: key indicators of liver enzymes
    • 1.3.1 What are Alat and Asat?
  • 1.4 Normal levels of Alat and Asat in the blood
  • 1.5 Causes of increased levels of Alat and Asat in the blood
    • 1.5.1 Pathological processes in the liver
    • 1.5.2 Injuries and toxic effects
    • 1.5.3 Diseases of other organs
    • 1.5.4 Pathology of muscle tissue
    • 1.5.5 Conclusions
  • 1.6 Reasons for the decline Alat and Asat
  • 1.7 Symptoms of elevated levels of Alat and Asat
  • 1.8 Analysis for Alat and Asat: Preparation and conducting
    • 1. 8.1 Preparation for analysis
    • 1.8.2 Analysis
    • 1.8.3 Decoding of results
  • 1.9Preparation for the analysis for Alat and Asat
  • 1.10 Interpretation of the results of the analysis of ALAT and ASAT in the blood
    • 1.10.1 What are ALAT and ASAT?
    • 1.10.2 What does elevated blood levels of ALAT and ASAT mean?
    • 1.10.3 What do low blood levels of ALAT and ASAT mean?
    • 1.10.4 How to interpret the test results?
  • 1.11 What to do in case of elevated levels of Alat and Asat?
  • 1.12 How can the level of Alat and Asat in the blood be reduced?
  • 1.13 Prevention of liver diseases
    • 1.13.1 1. Proper nutrition.
    • 1.13.2 2. Refusal of bad habits.
    • 1.13.3 3. Physical activity.
    • 1.13.4 4. Doctor’s instructions.
    • 1.13.5 5. Taking protective measures.
  • 1.14 How to keep the liver healthy?
  • 1.15 Conclusions
  • 1. 16 Related videos:
  • 1.17 Q&A:
    • • 1.17.0.1 What are alat and asat?
      • 1.17.0.2 What values ​​of alat and asat in the blood can be considered normal?
      • 1.17.0.3 What are the reasons for the increase in the level of ALAT and ASAT in the blood?
      • 1.17.0.4 How can I lower my ALAT and ASAT levels?
      • 1.17.0.5 What symptoms are signs of elevated levels of ALAT and ASAT?
      • 1.17.0.6 Who is at particular risk for elevated ALAT and ASAT?
      • 1.17.0.7 Can ALAT and ASAT levels fall back to normal without treatment?
      • 1.17.0.8 What is the significance of alat and asat in the diagnosis of diseases?

Alat and asat are liver enzymes that can be found in the blood when liver function is impaired. Find out how the test is done, what the results mean, and what diseases can be associated with elevated enzyme levels.

The liver is an organ that plays a key role in processing food and removing waste from the body. Under normal conditions, the liver produces enzymes that help break down the fats and proteins in food. If the liver is exposed to toxins, infection, or other type of stress, the concentration of these enzymes in the patient’s blood may increase.

The two most common enzymes measured in the blood for suspected liver disease are Alat and Asat. They are produced in the liver and can become “excessive” when liver cells become damaged or die. Therefore, the measurement of Alat and Asat levels is an important component in the diagnosis of many liver diseases.

In this article, we will look at why measuring the concentration of Alat and Asat in the blood can help in the diagnosis of liver diseases, what indications for such a study exist, and how to properly prepare for analysis and interpret the results.

Liver enzymes: what are they?

Liver enzymes are protein compounds that help carry out metabolic processes in the body. These enzymes are found in various liver cells and act as markers that may indicate the presence of pathologies in the organ or other possible diseases.

Some other liver enzymes such as lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) can also help determine liver health. LDH is normally found in high concentrations in various body tissues, including the liver. GGT, like ALAT and ASAT, is located in the liver and can be used to detect the presence of diseases in this organ.

• Important to remember: High levels of liver enzymes are not always indicative of disease. There are many factors that can increase the levels of these enzymes, such as the use of alcohol and certain medications. In any case, if you have elevated levels of liver enzymes, you need to consult a doctor for further examination and diagnosis.

Liver tests

The liver is one of the most important organs in our body. It performs many functions responsible for metabolism, blood purification and storage of the necessary substances. One way to monitor liver health is through liver tests.

The doctor may order liver tests if the patient complains of abdominal pain, nausea, loss of appetite, fatigue, or jaundice. Tests can be used to determine the cause of elevated enzyme levels, which may be due to alcoholism, a viral infection, drug poisoning, or other causes. Liver tests can also monitor the effectiveness of treatment and track changes over time.

Enzyme Normal level Increased level may indicate

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT)	Men: up to 50 units per liter, women: up to 35 units per liter	Hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, liver tumor.
Aspartate aminotransferase (AST)	Men: up to 40 units per liter, women: up to 35 units per liter	Acute myocarditis, myocardial infarction, hepatitis, liver cirrhosis.
Alkaline phosphatase (AP)	Men: up to 260 units per liter, women: up to 230 units per liter	Diseases of the liver and biliary tract, bone tumors.
Bilirubin	Less than 21 µmol per liter	Jaundice, hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, hemolytic anemia.

If the patient is scheduled for a liver test, the patient should follow all of the doctor’s instructions, such as not eating before the blood test and avoiding alcohol. In addition, it is important to understand that elevated levels of these enzymes do not always mean liver disease; sometimes they can be elevated with other diseases or medications.

Alat and Asat: key indicators of liver enzymes

What are Alat and Asat?

Alat and Asat are important enzymes produced by the liver that can affect the health of the body. Alat (Alanine transaminase) and Asat (Aspartate transaminase) are associated with protein metabolism and are involved in the process of amino acid degradation.

High levels of Alat and Asat in the blood may indicate problems in the functioning of the liver. A key indicator of the level of Alat and Asat in the blood is used to determine the harmful effects of medications taken. It can also help in the diagnosis of various liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis and others.

1. Alat is mainly produced by the liver and, to a lesser extent, by the muscles and kidneys.
2. Asat is most commonly produced in the heart, liver and muscles.

If the level of Alat and Asat in the blood is increased, it is necessary to consult a doctor for additional studies and determination of the cause. Controlling your liver enzyme levels is an important part of your overall health and can help prevent various diseases.

The norm of the level of Alat and Asat in the blood

Alat and Asat are enzymes that are normally found inside liver cells. If the liver cells are damaged, these enzymes are released into the blood, causing their levels to rise to abnormal levels. However, the level of Alat and Asat can be increased in various diseases and even with regular intake of certain medications.

Alat and Asat levels may vary slightly depending on age, gender and other factors such as being obese or taking certain medications. In addition, different laboratories may use different methods and reagents, which may lead to some deviations in the measurement of Alat and Asat levels.

If the level of Alat and Asat exceeds the norm, this may indicate the presence of pathological processes in the liver. To determine the exact cause of the increase in the level of Alat and Asat, it is necessary to perform additional tests and examinations, which must be prescribed by a doctor.

Causes of increased levels of Alat and Asat in the blood

Pathological processes in the liver

Alat and Asat are enzymes that are found in large quantities in liver cells. Therefore, an increase in the level of Alat and Asat in the blood indicates violations of the liver. This can be caused by various pathological processes in the liver, such as cirrhosis, hepatitis, fatty degeneration, and others.

Injuries and toxic effects

Elevated levels of Alat and Asat can be caused by trauma to the liver, such as bruises, falls or car accidents. Also, increased rates can be caused by toxic effects on the liver, for example, when drinking alcohol, drugs, or when using drugs that have hepatotoxic properties.

Diseases of other organs

Sometimes elevated levels of Alat and Asat in the blood can be caused by diseases of other organs not related to the liver. For example, it may be associated with diseases of the heart, pancreas, or kidneys.

Pathology of muscle tissue

Increased levels of Alat and Asat can also be associated with pathology of muscle tissue, for example, in the destruction of muscle fibers during myopathies or during intense physical exertion, especially in untrained people.

Conclusions

An increase in the level of Alat and Asat in the blood is an unfavorable signal for health, as it may indicate various diseases. Therefore, with an increase in the level of these enzymes, you should consult a doctor to conduct an examination and find out the reason for the increase in the level of Alat and Asat.

Causes of low levels of Alat and Asat

Alat and Asat are liver enzymes that are present in the blood. Their elevated level indicates a violation of liver function. But what if the levels of these enzymes are low?

Vitamin B6 deficiency may be one of the reasons, since this vitamin is an important catalyst for the processes associated with Alat and Asat. A lack of vitamin B6 can cause a decrease in the level of these enzymes in the blood.

Another reason may be long-term use of drugs such as hepatoprotectors or antibiotics, which may have an inhibitory effect on liver function. Decreased levels of Alat and Asat can also be associated with anemia or certain infections such as viral hepatitis.

Finally, many people who lead a healthy lifestyle may have low levels of Alat and Asat, as these enzymes are associated with alcohol, fat and protein metabolism, which can be reduced with a healthy diet and exercise.

In any case, the decrease in Alat and Asat should be considered along with other tests and clinical findings to determine possible causes and necessary treatment measures.

Symptoms of elevated levels of Alat and Asat

Alat and Asat are enzymes produced in the liver and can be used to evaluate liver function. Elevated levels of these enzymes may indicate problems with the liver or other organs.

One of the most common symptoms of an increase in Alat and Asat is jaundice, which manifests itself in the form of yellow eyes and skin. There may also be an increase in the size of the liver and spleen, as well as discomfort or pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen.

Other symptoms of an increase in Alat and Asat can be fatigue, a constant feeling of weakness, loss of appetite and involuntary weight loss. In some cases, elevated levels of these enzymes may be asymptomatic and only show up on blood tests.

In any case, elevated levels of Alat and Asat require diagnosis and treatment under medical supervision. It is necessary to conduct regular medical examinations and monitor the condition of your body in order to detect and prevent health problems in a timely manner.

Analysis for Alat and Asat: preparation and conduct

Preparation for analysis

Before undergoing analysis for Alat and Asat, a number of simple rules must be observed. It is not recommended to take food and alcohol 8 hours before donating blood. Also, do not engage in physical activity, no matter how insignificant it may be. Before the analysis, it is necessary to clarify the family and medical history, as well as inform the attending physician about the use of any medications and supplements.

Testing

Testing for Alat and Asat is performed from a vein on an empty stomach. The specialist takes blood from a vein using a special syringe and sends it to the laboratory for analysis. The results of the analysis are usually ready in a day, sometimes in 2-3 days.

Decode results

Liver tests for liver enzymes are used to determine the level of Alat and Asat in the blood. The level of these enzymes may indicate possible diseases of the liver or gallbladder. The normal value of Alat is 5-40 IU / l, and Asat – 5-37 IU / l. However, the norms may vary slightly depending on the laboratory, so the results should only be interpreted in conjunction with the attending physician.

It is important to remember that the analysis for Alat and Asat is only an additional tool in the diagnosis of diseases. The results of the analysis should be evaluated in conjunction with other data – medical history, complete blood count, ultrasound and other studies. Only in this case, you can get an accurate diagnosis and start treatment.

Preparation for analysis for Alat and Asat

For correct diagnosis of the liver condition, it is necessary to take a blood test for Alat and Asat. These indicators reflect the work of this body, reveal the presence of violations in its functioning and establish the cause of the disease.

Preparation for analysis is carried out according to simple rules:

• 10-14 days before the analysis, do not take drugs that can affect liver function;
• Avoid alcoholic beverages, low-fat foods, and high-fat foods 3 days before the test;
• do not smoke, drink coffee, tea or chocolate a few hours before the test;
• On the day of the test, bring your passport and doctor’s referral;

Responsibly treat the preparation for the analysis for Alat and Asat, as this helps to more accurately determine the cause of the disease and prescribe the necessary treatment.

Interpretation of ALAT and ASAT blood test results

What are ALAT and ASAT?

ALAT (alanine aminotransferase) and ACAT (aspartate aminotransferase) are enzymes released by the liver into the blood. They are actively involved in metabolic processes and the production of proteins in the body.

What do elevated blood levels of ALAT and ASAT mean?

An increase in the levels of ALAT and ACAT in the blood may indicate a violation of liver function. This is usually associated with various pathologies, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis of the liver, fatty liver and other diseases.

However, elevated blood levels of these enzymes can also be caused by certain medications, alcohol, stress, and strenuous exercise.

What do low blood levels of ALAT and ASAT mean?

Decreased blood levels of ALAT and ACAT are not usually diagnostic of liver disease. This may indicate a violation of the functions of these enzymes, but may also be due to insufficient intake of necessary substances in the body and some other reasons.

How to interpret test results?

Interpretation of ALAT and ASAT blood test results should only be performed by a qualified physician based on a comprehensive analysis of the patient’s general condition, medical history and other factors.

Elevated levels of ALAT and ACAT in the blood may indicate the presence of liver disease, but require further examination and confirmation of the diagnosis. Constantly monitoring the blood levels of these enzymes can help diagnose liver problems early and take the necessary steps to treat them.

What to do in case of elevated levels of Alat and Asat?

High levels of Alat and Asat may indicate the presence of liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty degeneration and others. In this case, it is necessary to consult a gastroenterologist or hepatologist for further examination and treatment.

In addition, there are several recommendations that can help improve performance:

• maintain a healthy lifestyle: stop smoking, moderate alcohol consumption, eat healthy, exercise;
• take only medicines approved by your doctor;
• Monitor your cholesterol and blood sugar levels, as high levels can adversely affect the liver.

In any case, a more accurate diagnosis and prescription of treatment is possible only after examination by a doctor.

How can the level of Alat and Asat in the blood be reduced?

To reduce the level of Alat and Asat in the blood, you need to take a quality approach to your health. It is necessary to stop drinking alcohol and smoking, as this is the main source of increased levels of Alat and Asat.

You also need to pay attention to nutrition. The diet should contain foods rich in vitamins and minerals, such as vegetables, fruits, herbs, nuts, fish and meat.

It is important not to forget about an active lifestyle, as exercise will help improve blood circulation and reduce the level of Alat and Asat in the blood.

In addition, elevated levels of these enzymes should see a doctor. Treatment may include taking special medications and following a diet.

• Stop drinking alcohol and smoking
• Proper nutrition
• Active lifestyle
• Medical consultation and treatment

Prevention of liver diseases

1.

Proper nutrition.

One of the most important factors in the prevention of liver disease is proper nutrition. Red meat, heavy consumption of fatty and fried foods, alcohol, strong coffee and tea – all this adversely affects the functioning of the liver. The diet should contain a lot of fruits, vegetables, fish, dairy products and greens.

2. Refusal of bad habits.

Alcoholism and smoking are the main bad habits that damage the liver. It is necessary to completely abandon them in order to preserve the health of the liver.

3. Physical activity.

Regular exercise and exercise help strengthen the body and improve overall health, including the liver.

4. Doctor’s instructions.

Follow your doctor’s advice to prevent liver disease. In case of liver disease, it is necessary to strictly follow the prescribed treatment and undergo regular examinations.

5. Taking protective measures.

To avoid infection with viral hepatitis, you must follow the rules of personal hygiene, do not share other people’s personal belongings. Hepatitis A and B vaccinations are also recommended.

How can I keep my liver healthy?

The liver is a large and complex organ that performs many functions in our body. It is involved in metabolism, normalization of blood glucose levels, cleaning of toxins and much more. It is important to take care of the health of the liver in order to avoid various diseases and problems.

Some of the following tips can help you keep your liver healthy:

• Give up bad habits. Smoking, drinking alcohol and certain drugs can seriously damage the health of the liver. It is necessary to abandon such habits in order to avoid problems with the liver.
• Proper nutrition. Avoid fatty, spicy, fried and high-calorie foods. It is useful to eat vegetables, fruits, herbs, bread made from whole grain flour.
• Physical activity. Sports and exercise can help keep your liver healthy. They help facilitate the release of toxins and other harmful substances.
• Avoidance of harmful substances. Maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid exposure to hazardous substances that can harm your liver.
• Treat diseases in time. You may develop a disease that can seriously damage the health of your liver. Treat diseases in time to avoid such problems.

By following these simple tips, you can keep your liver healthy, avoid problems and enjoy life to the fullest.

Conclusions

Alat and asat are liver enzymes that can be detected in the blood when the level of liver damage is high enough. The levels of these enzymes can give an indication of the level of damage, but do not always allow for an accurate diagnosis. Therefore, it is important to conduct additional research to determine the cause of the increase in the levels of these enzymes.

Elevated levels of alat may indicate liver damage, but may also be associated with other problems, such as increased physical activity or medication. Elevated levels of asat can also be associated with liver damage, as well as heart and muscle problems.

Therefore, additional investigations such as ultrasound, MRI or liver biopsy are necessary for an accurate diagnosis.

If an increase in the levels of alat and asat is detected, it is necessary to consult a doctor for additional studies and determine the cause of this phenomenon. Prompt treatment can help prevent further liver damage and preserve liver function.

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Q&A:

What are alat and asat?

Alanine aminotransferase (ALAT) and Aspartate aminotransferase (ASAT) are enzymes made in the liver and used to break down amino acids in the body.

What values ​​of alat and asat in the blood can be considered normal?

Normal values ​​for ALAT can range from 0 to 45 units/L, and for ASAT from 0 to 35 units/L.

What are the reasons for the increase in the level of ALAT and ASAT in the blood?

Elevated levels of ALAT and ACAT may indicate the presence of liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis or fatty degeneration. They can also indicate the presence of heart disease, alcohol dependence or other metabolic disorders in the body.

How can I lower my ALAT and ASAT levels?

To lower the levels of ALAT and ASAT, you first need to find out the reason for their increase. Typically, this may be due to lifestyle changes, including avoiding alcohol and changing diet. In some cases, medication may be required.

What are the symptoms of elevated levels of ALAT and ASAT?

Elevated levels of ALAT and ASAT may not present with obvious symptoms. However, if they are caused by liver disease, symptoms such as jaundice, liver enlargement, fatigue, anemia, etc. are possible.

Who is at particular risk for elevated ALAT and ASAT?

People who have alcoholic or fatty liver disease, or who take medications that can damage the liver, are at increased risk of elevated blood levels of ALT and ACAT.

Can ALAT and ASAT levels return to normal without treatment?

If elevated levels of ALAT and ASAT are caused by lifestyle changes, they may return to normal without treatment. But if they are caused by a disease, then treatment is needed to return the levels of ALAT and ASAT to normal levels.

What is the significance of alat and asat in the diagnosis of diseases?

Measurement of ALAT and ASAT levels is a simple and inexpensive method for diagnosing possible liver-related diseases. However, for specific diagnosis and treatment, additional testing is usually required.

Take a blood test for liver enzymes (liver parameters) in Moscow: affordable prices.

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Liver enzymes are substances that are responsible for neutralizing toxins from food, drugs, and inhaled air. As soon as tissues are destroyed for any reason, the level of enzymes in the blood changes. This makes it possible to suspect problems at an early stage. The analysis becomes even more relevant due to the fact that the liver is a silent organ, it does not hurt.

Causes of liver disease

According to the World Health Organization, today more than 2 billion people suffer from various liver diseases – and this is one third of the adult population of the Earth.

Experts refer to the main reasons for the increase in the number of morbidity: unhealthy lifestyle, stress, bad habits (smoking and alcohol), taking a large number of drugs at the same time, and a sharp weight loss. All these factors contribute to the overload of the body with cholesterol and fat, as a result of which it is destroyed.

Viral hepatitis also contributes, which can be contracted in the most unexpected ways. For example, if you ate with dirty hands (hepatitis A) or visited a nail salon or a medical facility where sterilization of instruments is dishonest (hepatitis B and C). The virus multiplies, adapts, and then causes severe inflammation of the tissues of the organ.

Keep liver function under control

The main liver indicators, markers are the enzymes Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), which are involved in almost all biochemical reactions that occur in the body. In the event that liver cells are destroyed, enzymes enter the blood in large quantities. An increased or decreased level of ALT and AST just indicates that not everything is in order and additional diagnostics are required, and then treatment.

Analysis in ON CLINIC

In the laboratory of the International Medical Center ON CLINIC, which has an international certificate of quality control, we carry out a wide range of studies, including blood tests for liver enzymes.

Preparation for analysis

The test is carried out on an empty stomach (you should not eat 8-12 hours before the test), on the eve you should give up a rich dinner and alcohol.