Can high AST levels be fatal?

High AST levels can indicate liver damage or disease, which, if severe and left untreated, can potentially lead to fatal complications. It's crucial to seek medical advice to assess underlying causes and necessary interventions.

What is the relationship between AST and ALT levels?

The relationship between AST and ALT levels is that both are enzymes found in the liver and other tissues, helping to assess liver function. Elevated levels of these enzymes often indicate liver damage or inflammation.

What does a high AST blood test result indicate?

A high AST blood test result indicates potential liver damage or inflammation, but it can also suggest other conditions affecting the heart, muscles, or other organs. Consulting a healthcare professional is crucial for further evaluation and diagnosis.

Is high AST level a sign of liver disease?

High AST levels can indicate liver disease, but they may also be caused by other factors such as muscle damage or certain medications. It's essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and further evaluation.

What foods can help lower elevated AST levels naturally?

Foods that can help lower elevated AST levels naturally include leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and Brussels sprouts, fatty fish rich in omega-3s, nuts, berries, and whole grains, which collectively support liver health and function.

Is an AST level of 200 IU/L extremely dangerous?

An AST level of 200 IU/L can be concerning and may indicate liver damage or disease, though it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and to understand the underlying causes and necessary actions.

Can diet changes help reduce AST levels in blood?

Diet changes can indeed help reduce AST levels in the blood. Incorporating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, while avoiding processed foods and excessive alcohol, may support liver health and lower enzyme levels.

What causes elevated AST levels in blood?

Elevated AST levels in blood can be caused by liver diseases, muscle disorders, alcohol consumption, certain medications, and conditions like heart disease or hypothyroidism. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and management.

How to lower high AST levels naturally?

Lowering high AST levels naturally involves making lifestyle changes such as adopting a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, staying hydrated, managing stress through relaxation techniques, exercising regularly, and avoiding alcohol and toxins that can harm the liver.

What level of AST is considered dangerous in adults?

The level of AST that is considered dangerous in adults is typically above 40 to 50 units per liter (U/L). High levels can indicate liver damage or other health issues, warranting medical evaluation and intervention.

Is a high AST level always dangerous?

High AST levels are not always dangerous, but they can indicate underlying health issues. It's important to evaluate AST levels in conjunction with other medical tests and consult a healthcare professional for a thorough assessment and appropriate action.

What AST level requires medical attention?

An AST level that exceeds 40-50 units per liter typically requires medical attention, as it may indicate liver damage or underlying health issues that need further evaluation and management.

What symptoms indicate high AST levels?

Symptoms indicating high AST levels may include fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), nausea, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain. However, some individuals may have elevated AST without noticeable symptoms.

How can hydration affect AST levels?

Hydration levels can significantly influence AST levels in the body. Proper hydration helps maintain optimal liver function, which may prevent elevated AST levels associated with dehydration and liver stress. Staying well-hydrated supports overall health and liver enzyme balance.

Are there safe limits for AST levels?

Safe limits for AST (aspartate aminotransferase) levels typically range from 10 to 40 units per liter, though this can vary slightly by age, sex, and lab standards. Elevated levels may indicate liver issues and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

What lifestyle changes help lower AST?

Lifestyle changes that help lower AST include adopting a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, maintaining regular exercise, managing stress, avoiding alcohol and processed foods, and ensuring adequate hydration. Regular check-ups and consultations with healthcare professionals are also essential.

Can herbal remedies lower AST effectively?

Herbal remedies can effectively contribute to lowering AST levels in some individuals. Herbs such as milk thistle, dandelion, and turmeric may support liver health and help in enzyme regulation, but it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for tailored advice.

How often should AST levels be tested?

The frequency of testing AST levels depends on individual health conditions and risk factors. Generally, it is advisable to test them at least once a year or more frequently if elevated levels or liver issues are present, as guided by a healthcare professional.

What is considered an optimal AST level?

Optimal AST levels typically range from 10 to 40 units per liter (U/L) in adults. However, ideal levels may vary slightly based on individual health conditions and laboratory standards.

Can alcohol consumption elevate AST levels?

Alcohol consumption can elevate AST levels. Excessive drinking can lead to liver damage, resulting in increased enzyme levels, which indicates liver stress or injury. It's important to monitor alcohol intake for maintaining liver health.

What role does diet play in AST levels?

The role of diet in AST levels is significant. Consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats can help regulate liver function and lower elevated AST levels, while excessive intake of unhealthy fats, sugars, and alcohol can negatively impact liver health.

How can weight loss impact AST levels?

Weight loss can significantly impact AST levels by improving liver function and reducing fat accumulation in the liver. As individuals shed excess weight, they often experience a decrease in AST levels, indicating better liver health.

What medications can raise AST levels?

Certain medications can raise AST levels, including statins, acetaminophen, certain antibiotics, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional if concerned about medication effects on liver enzymes.

Are children at risk for high AST levels?

Children can be at risk for high AST levels due to factors such as infections, metabolic disorders, or liver diseases. Regular checkups are important for monitoring their liver health and addressing any concerns.

What are the long-term effects of high AST?

The long-term effects of high AST levels can lead to significant liver damage, potentially resulting in chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, or liver cancer if left untreated. Regular monitoring and lifestyle changes are crucial for prevention.

How do genetics influence AST levels?

Genetics can significantly influence AST levels by affecting liver enzyme production and metabolism. Genetic variations may predispose individuals to conditions that elevate AST, highlighting the importance of understanding one's hereditary factors in liver health management.

Does exercise improve AST levels?

Exercise can indeed improve AST levels. Regular physical activity helps enhance liver function and can lead to a decrease in elevated AST levels, contributing to overall liver health.

What monitoring is needed for elevated AST?

Monitoring for elevated AST levels involves regular blood tests to track enzyme levels, assessing liver function, and identifying potential underlying conditions. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for tailored monitoring plans and further evaluation.

How do chronic conditions affect AST levels?

Chronic conditions can significantly influence AST levels, often leading to elevations due to ongoing liver stress or damage. Conditions like hepatitis, fatty liver disease, and myocardial infarction may increase AST as the body responds to these health challenges.

High AST Levels: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

Medically Approved by Dr. Edward Salko

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Elevated liver enzymes like AST (aspartate aminotransferase) and ALT (alanine aminotransferase) can indicate liver damage, often caused by external factors. Lowering these enzymes and restoring liver health requires following your doctor’s recommendations, which may include lifestyle changes such as limiting alcohol intake, maintaining a healthy weight, and adopting a balanced diet. Additionally, avoiding exposure to toxins and prioritizing regular exercise can further support liver function and overall well-being.

Below, we’ll tackle all these steps to lower high AST and ALT levels. You’ll also learn about the popular home remedies for managing these elevated liver enzymes.

What Does It Mean When Your AST and ALT Are High?

AST and ALT play a crucial role in metabolizing amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. Damaged or inflamed liver cells trigger the release of AST and ALT into the bloodstream, raising their levels.

There are several possible specific causes of elevated AST and ALT levels, including liver diseases such as hepatitis (including hepatitis for children), fatty liver disease, and cirrhosis. Excessive alcohol consumption, certain medications, obesity, high cholesterol, and viral infections can also cause elevated levels.

Pinpointing the reason behind elevated AST and ALT often requires a combination of medical history review, physical examination, and further investigations. These may include blood tests, imaging scans, and sometimes a liver biopsy. Once the cause is determined, you can take targeted steps to address the underlying issue.

Normal ALT levels range from 0 to 44 IU/L, while AST levels must be between 0 to 44 IU/L. Some labs may have slightly different thresholds, so always check their specific reference. Beyond the upper limit, this indicates that the liver enzymes have been released in the bloodstream at an elevated amount. Thus, it requires immediate medical consultation.

Did you know? While commonly referred to as AST, this liver enzyme also goes by the alias “serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase,” or SGOT for short. This is why you’ll find a lab test called AST SGOT blood test. In addition, high AST SGOT and ALT provide insights into your liver health. Another panel blood test that evaluates how well your liver works is the hepatic function panel seven blood test.

How To Lower High AST and ALT Levels

Aside from medications and other treatments your doctor prescribes, lowering elevated AST and ALT levels requires prioritizing a holistic approach. These include lifestyle changes that actively support your liver’s health and reduce elevated enzyme levels. Specifically, they involve the actions below.

Reduce alcohol consumption

Excessive alcohol consumption can damage the liver, leading to elevated ALT and AST levels, as confirmed by research like the study in the Journal of Clinical Medicine. Researchers found that drinking too much alcohol⁽¹⁾, especially hard liquor, can harm your liver and cause high ALT and AST. This damage can lead to liver fibrosis, which is when your liver starts to scar.

The study also found that the more alcohol people drank, the more likely they were to have advanced liver damage. This was true even for people who didn’t show any symptoms.

Reducing your alcohol intake allows the liver to recover and the hepatic cells to undergo repair. However, how long and well you recover depends on the extent of alcohol dependency.

With this in mind, you should first assess other factors that could impede alcohol elimination from your lifestyle. Or better yet, work closely with a professional, especially if you plan to completely give up alcohol, along with other habits that destroy your liver.

Maintain a healthy weight

For individuals with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)⁽²⁾, achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is the primary approach to lower elevated ALT and AST levels and improve overall liver function.

However, when choosing a weight loss intervention method, go for something sustainable. Intensive options⁽³⁾ appear to diminish the goal of improving treatment among patients with NAFLD, according to a study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

Nonetheless, losing 7-10% of your body weight⁽⁴⁾ can help improve NAFLD. In addition, vitamin E and a special compound found in olives might be beneficial, especially for children with NAFLD. Scientists are also looking at new ways to treat NAFLD by targeting tiny molecules in the cells called microRNAs.

Pro tip: Your weight loss journey should include a medical assessment at the get-go to keep better track of your progress. A weight loss profile blood test, for example, allows your primary care provider to determine which type of diet and the rate of physical activity matches your needs and natural composition.

Avoid exposure to toxins

Keep the liver free from toxic chemicals and pollutants, like nicotine and industrial solvents, as they can cause damage to the liver, prompting the elevation of liver enzymes in the blood. Minimize exposure to these toxins by avoiding smoking, using protective gear when handling chemicals, and opting for organic produce to reduce the risk of elevated liver enzymes and potential liver damage.

Cigarette smoking⁽⁵⁾, for instance, adversely impacts NAFLD, as presented in a review published in the Journal of Hepatology. The mechanism of such impact involves various minute effects of nicotine, including the activation of oxidative stress.

Aside from the nicotine of cigarettes, a study from the Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine shows exposure to certain environmental chemicals⁽⁶⁾ might increase the risk of having elevated liver enzymes. Specifically, these chemicals include perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS), perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA), mercury, and phthalates.

Pro tip: Wondering if there is a blood test for smoking? Check out the nicotine and metabolite blood test, ideal for those who keep track of how much nicotine their body has dispelled following cigarette withdrawal.

Manage stress

Chronic stress negatively impacts liver health, potentially elevating AST and ALT levels. Studies suggest that prolonged stress can injure the liver and hinder its ability to function properly, highlighting the importance of stress management in maintaining liver health.

For instance, work-related stress⁽⁷⁾ due to working long hours can alter liver enzyme levels abnormally. This has been shown in a study published in the Annals of Occupational and Environmental Medicine. This is further supported by the fact that when you’re stressed, your body releases a hormone called cortisol. High levels of cortisol⁽⁸⁾, along with other stress factors in our lives, can contribute to liver disease.

Incorporate stress management techniques such as mindful meditation, yoga, or engaging in hobbies to reduce stress levels and support liver function. Likewise, make sure to avoid overworking and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Pro tip: When you’re working, it can be tricky to find ways to destress without frequently thinking about your tasks. Check out our guide on how to deal with stress when you’re busy. Additionally, make sure you’re destressing right by avoiding unhealthy ways of coping with stress.

Consume liver-friendly foods

AST and ALT levels can be lowered by consuming certain foods that promote liver health. These include garlic, turmeric, leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, and berries, which contain specific compounds or antioxidants that support liver function.

Fatty fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids⁽⁹⁾ is also ideal for supplementation as it provides extra protection to the liver, especially among those with chronic liver disease. Tuna and salmon are two of the most common commercial fish you can include in your diet. These are also versatile in that you can prepare them in many ways.

Increase fiber intake

Consume other fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, especially those rich in soluble fiber. Dietary fiber⁽¹⁰⁾ has been associated with liver protection and lowers the risk for NAFLD. Naturally, this allows AST and ALT to remain within the normal range.

In addition to adding healthy foods to your diet, if possible, avoid processed foods, too much red meat, and sugary drinks, as they can cause your liver to overwork itself. Plan your meals accordingly and work with a nutritionist or doctor to ensure your diet is in your favor.

Stay hydrated

Adequate water intake is essential for liver health, as water plays a vital role in the detoxification process. Insufficient hydration can hinder the liver’s ability to efficiently eliminate waste and toxins, potentially leading to elevated liver enzymes and impaired function. Prioritizing proper hydration supports optimal liver performance and overall health.

Do not ignore your regular checkups

Regular follow-up checkups play a significant role in managing and lowering high AST and ALT levels. These checkups allow healthcare professionals to monitor your liver health, assess the effectiveness of any ongoing treatments, and make necessary adjustments to your care plan.

A collaborative approach between you and your doctor fosters a sense of accountability and empowers you to participate actively in your care, increasing the likelihood of successful outcomes and long-term well-being.

Natural Remedies for Lowering AST and ALT Levels

In addition to lifestyle modifications, exploring natural remedies that support liver function may help reduce ALT and AST levels. However, it’s important to consult your doctor before incorporating any organic supplements to ensure safety and maximize potential benefits while minimizing any risks.

Milk thistle

The herb milk thistle is known for its liver-protective properties, specifically reducing liver inflammation and supporting detoxification. However, make sure to consult with your doctor first for the appropriate dosage and form of milk thistle before adding milk thistle to your grocery list.

Dandelion root

Dandelion root, a traditional liver tonic, encourages healthy bile flow, assisting the body’s natural detoxification processes. You can typically find dandelion root in the form of a tea or a supplement.

Green tea

Green tea is dubbed as the healthiest drink in the world. It is rich in antioxidants that can help protect the liver from inflammation and damage. Consider drinking two to three cups of green tea daily to support liver health.

Coffee

Coffee has shown promising potential in supporting liver health and potentially lowering AST and ALT levels⁽¹¹⁾. This is likely due to its rich antioxidant content, which helps protect liver cells from damage, and its anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce liver inflammation.

Licorice root

Licorice root contains a compound called glycyrrhizin, which possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help protect the liver from damage. Studies suggest that glycyrrhizin may help improve liver function⁽¹²⁾ and reduce elevated liver enzymes like AST and ALT in individuals with certain liver conditions, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Turmeric

Turmeric, a vibrant yellow spice commonly used in cooking, contains a powerful compound called curcumin. Curcumin boasts potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties⁽¹³⁾ that may help protect the liver from damage. However, it’s important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the efficacy and optimal dosage of turmeric for liver health.

Artichoke

Artichokes contain compounds that can enhance liver function and promote healthy bile flow, which aids in digestion and detoxification. You can enjoy artichokes steamed, roasted, or in supplement form to potentially support your liver health.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I worry about AST and ALT?

Elevated liver enzymes, even mildly elevated or without accompanying symptoms, warrant further consultation with a healthcare professional. This is especially true if AST and ALT levels are twice the upper limit of the normal range. Consistent elevation may indicate underlying liver issues requiring further investigation and management to prevent potential long-term complications.

What is the treatment for high AST and ALT levels?

Naturally, the treatment for elevated AST and ALT levels all depends on the cause of the imbalance. With this, your doctor may require further liver function testing. Nonetheless, you can follow through with the lifestyle improvement actions mentioned above to supplement the medication prescribed by your doctor, regardless of the primary underlying condition.

Can you recover from high AST and ALT?

patient receiving bad news she is desperate and crying doctor support and comforting her patient with sympathy

Yes, you can recover from high ALT and AST, but the rate of recovery and duration will depend on the cause. There are cases wherein the elevated levels of these liver enzymes are temporary. Hence, with proper medication and lifestyle adjustment, you can expect to return to normalcy between two to four weeks.

However, if the condition’s underlying cause is a serious liver injury or something related, you may have to follow a particular course of treatment that will influence your recovery from elevated AST and AL.

The Bottom Line

Lowering high ALT and AST requires a combination of conscious lifestyle changes and professional direction from your healthcare provider. Before employing the steps and tips we outlined above, consult your doctor first so you can keep a good balance of natural and professional treatment. In addition, maintain activities and daily choices that improve your liver health.

Sources

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