How to Lower Your ALT Levels
ALT, or alanine aminotransferase, is a liver enzyme that plays a key role in breaking down proteins and converting them into energy for your liver cells.
In a healthy liver, ALT levels are generally low. However, when the liver is damaged, these levels can leak into the bloodstream, resulting in elevated ALT.
It is essential to understand the factors causing elevated ALT and adopt positive changes to your lifestyle to keep these at a healthy level. In this article, we will discuss various ways to lower ALT levels and promote liver health.
Measuring ALT Levels
Alanine aminotransferase levels are usually measured through a simple blood test called a liver function test. Typically, this test is carried out in a healthcare setting by a medical professional.
Blood Sample Analysis
The process involves taking a small blood sample from a vein in your arm using a thin needle. This sample is then sent to a laboratory where specialists evaluate it for various enzymes and proteins, including ALT.
Usually, there’s no specific preparation required for this test, although your doctor might advise you to avoid eating or drinking anything apart from water for a certain period before the test, depending on the specifics of your medical condition.
The Results
Normal ALT levels can vary with age and sex.
Generally, adult males range from 7-56 U/L (units per liter), adult females from 7-29 U/L, and for children, it depends on their growth and age.
Causes of High ALT Levels
Understanding the potential causes of high ALT levels play a crucial role in determining the right treatment course and managing your liver health.
Age
Aging affects the functioning of your organs, including the liver.
As you age, the efficiency and vitality of the liver might reduce, leading to elevated ALT levels.
Alcohol Consumption
High alcohol intake can gradually damage your liver cells. This is because alcohol is metabolized in the liver.
This damage disrupts the normal operation of your liver and can cause high levels of the ALT enzyme, signaling potential liver damage or disease.
Smoking
Regular smoking exposes the body to a mix of toxins or harmful substances, including nicotine, tar, and carbon monoxide. Because of this, it can severely impair the liver’s capability to function efficiently and can lead to increased levels of ALT.
Consequently, long-term or intense periods of smoking can lead to severe liver conditions, including fat accumulation, fibrosis, cirrhosis, or even liver cancer.
Drug Use
Recreational drug usage, specifically those that are processed through the liver or introduce toxins to the body, can strain and damage this vital organ.
In response to this stress and damage, your body may produce higher levels of ALT.
Medications
Medications such as pain relievers, cholesterol-lowering medications, and certain antibiotics can contribute to elevated ALT levels due to their potential impact on the liver.
The liver is responsible for metabolizing and processing drugs, and in some cases, these medications may cause hepatotoxicity or liver inflammation.
Food-Energy Conversion Issues
Insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome can contribute to high ALT levels, indicating potential liver dysfunction.
Insulin resistance reduces the liver’s ability to respond appropriately to insulin, leading to elevated blood sugar levels and increased fat accumulation in the liver, a condition known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
Metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions including abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, and dyslipidemia, is closely linked to NAFLD and can further elevate ALT levels.
Iron Absorption Disorder
Hemochromatosis is a condition where your body absorbs too much iron, causing it to be stored in your organs, including the liver.
This excess can damage the liver and trigger an increase in ALT production.
Virus Infection
Hepatitis is a major cause of elevated levels of ALT. Viral infections like hepatitis B and C can lead to liver inflammation and damage.
It is important to get screened or vaccinated for hepatitis if you are working in a susceptible field. If you suspect hepatitis, consult your healthcare provider.
Fatty Liver Disease
Fatty liver disease includes non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and is associated with obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
This condition, marked by the buildup of excess fat in your liver cells, can impair proper liver function and cause your ALT levels to rise.
Liver Cancer
Liver cancer is a critical health condition that involves the growth of malignant tumors within the liver. These tumors interrupt the liver’s normal functioning as they invade healthy liver tissues and alter their structures and operations.
Due to this disruption, the liver releases more ALT into the bloodstream.
Heart Failure
Heart failure is a complex cardiovascular condition that can indirectly affect liver health. In some instances, heart failure can lead to congestion or a back-up of blood in the liver.
When the heart cannot pump blood efficiently, it increases pressure in the blood vessels of the liver, causing a strain on the organ and potential damage. As a result, the liver may respond by releasing more ALT into the bloodstream.
Symptoms and Side-Effects of Elevated ALT Levels
High levels of ALT in your bloodstream primarily signify potential liver damage but are not harmful in themselves. However, the underlying conditions leading to elevated ALT can have serious implications.
Fatigue
Elevated ALT levels, usually as a result of liver disease, can cause your body to tire easily.
The liver is responsible for processing nutrients for energy, and when it’s not functioning optimally, the result can be chronic tiredness.
Abdominal Pain
This discomfort arises because your liver, when damaged or unhealthy, tends to swell or even become inflamed.
Such swelling or inflammation within your liver can put pressure on nearby organs and tissues, leading to a bloated, uncomfortable or even painful feeling in your abdominal region. Therefore, any persistent discomfort or pain should be seen as a potential warning sign warranting medical attention.
Yellowing of Skin
When your ALT levels are high due to an issue with your liver, your liver might have difficulty processing bilirubin, a waste product of the liver usually excreted into the bile.
As a result, the elevated bilirubin could result in jaundice, which causes your skin and eyes to take on a yellowish hue.
Brain Fogging
In severe cases of liver disease, toxins can build up in your brain due to the liver’s inability to properly filter the blood.
This condition, known as hepatic encephalopathy, can cause cognitive problems like memory loss, confusion, or poor concentration.
Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms associated with liver dysfunction and the accompanying elevated ALT levels.
When the liver is compromised, it may struggle to process toxins and/or infections effectively, leading to gastrointestinal issues like nausea and vomiting.
Loss of Appetite
A loss of appetite is another symptom that can accompany liver issues and elevated levels of ALT.
The liver plays a vital role in digestion and metabolism, and when compromised, it can impact the body’s ability to process nutrients and regulate appetite.
Reduced Nutrient Absorption
As a result of liver disease or damage, evidenced by high levels of ALT, your body might not adequately absorb and utilize nutrients from food.
Over time, this malabsorption can lead to malnutrition and weight loss or other more serious health issues.
Lifestyle Changes to Lower Your ALT levels
Keeping your liver healthy is vital for maintaining overall good health, as it plays a crucial role in processing nutrients and filtering toxins. When test results show elevated ALT levels, implying liver stress or damage, it’s a wake-up call to reevaluate your current lifestyle habits or consult your doctor about possible underlying issues.
Here are some changes you can make to your lifestyle:
Eat a Balanced Diet
A balanced, nutritious diet is essential in maintaining liver health.
Consuming ample fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats supports the liver’s functions and prevents damage, thereby minimizing causative factors and helping lower your ALT levels.
Limit Processed Foods
These types of foods often contain high levels of sodium, sugars, and unhealthy fats, which can stress your liver and lead to higher levels of ALT.
By reducing your intake of processed foods, you are contributing to the health of your liver.
Avoid Raw or Undercooked Seafood
Certain raw seafood can carry a risk of harboring Hepatitis A virus, which can cause liver inflammation and increase levels of ALT.
By cooking seafood thoroughly or avoiding it altogether, you’re reducing potential exposure to viruses that may cause liver disease.
Get Regular Exercise
Regular exercise is crucial for overall health, which can lower the production of ALT.
Aim for at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise, or a combination of both.
Reduce Alcohol Intake
Alcohol can damage liver cells, leading to inflammation and scarring and resulting in elevated levels of the alanine aminotransferase enzyme.
By moderating or eliminating alcohol intake, you lessen the risk of damaging your liver.
Quit Smoking
Cigarette smoke contains a multitude of toxins that can negatively impact liver function.
Quitting smoking reduces the exposure of your liver to these toxins, promoting a healthier liver and potentially lowering your ALT.
Minimize Toxins and Increase Water Intake
Minimizing exposure to toxins and staying adequately hydrated are crucial lifestyle changes to lower elevated ALT levels. Toxins from alcohol, processed foods, and environmental sources can strain the liver, contributing to ALT elevation.
Hydration supports liver function, aiding in the efficient processing and elimination of toxins, promoting overall liver health.
Adjust Medications
Reviewing medication is a crucial step in lowering elevated ALT levels. Some medications may contribute to liver enzyme elevation, necessitating consultation with a healthcare professional.
Adjusting or discontinuing certain drugs under medical guidance can help restore normal ALT levels and ensure overall liver health. Regular medication reviews are essential for individuals seeking to manage and reduce ALT levels effectively.
Manage Long-Term Stress
Effectively managing stress is integral to lowering elevated ALT levels. Chronic stress can impact liver health, contributing to enzyme elevation.
Adopting stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or yoga can positively influence ALT levels and promote overall well-being.
Herbal and Over-the-Counter Medications
It’s crucial to remember that maintaining a healthy lifestyle, with proper diet and exercise, is vital for liver health before considering additional remedies.
It is recommended that you consult your healthcare professional before incorporating any herbal supplement into your routine, as individual responses can vary.
Vitamin E
This powerful antioxidant can help reduce inflammation and damage in your liver, which in turn may lower the amount of ALT in your bloodstream.
It can be beneficial for those with conditions like fatty liver disease, but it’s crucial to consult your doctor for safe dosages.
Vitamin C
This vitamin is known for its antioxidant properties. It can help combat oxidative stress in the liver, protecting liver cells and potentially reducing elevated ALT levels.
It’s available as a dietary supplement but can also be found in a variety of fruits and vegetables.
Licorice Root
Traditionally used in herbal medicine, licorice root might help protect liver cells from damage and improve liver health.
Some studies suggest it can help reduce levels of ALT in individuals with liver diseases like hepatitis, but it should be used under medical supervision due to potential side effects.
Selenium
This essential trace element can support overall liver health.
It has antioxidant properties and helps in detoxification processes, potentially reducing damage to liver cells and, thus, helping to maintain healthy ALT levels.
Milk Thistle
This herbal supplement is widely used for its potential ability to protect the liver.
Its active ingredient, silymarin, is thought to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce liver inflammation and ultimately lower your ALT levels.
N-Acetylcysteine
N-acetylcysteine (NAC) has shown promise in supporting liver health and potentially lowering ALT levels.
This antioxidant is believed to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation and support detoxification processes in the liver.
Alpha-Lipoic Acid
Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is an antioxidant that plays a role in energy metabolism and has anti-inflammatory properties. Some studies suggest that ALA may have hepatoprotective effects, helping to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the liver.
This antioxidant activity could contribute to lowering ALT levels, as the hepatoprotective properties take effect.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are ALT levels measured?
Alanine aminotransferase levels are usually measured through a liver function test. This entails drawing a small blood sample from a vein in your arm.
This sample is then analyzed by laboratory specialists for various enzymes and proteins.
What can cause high ALT levels?
High levels of this enzyme can be caused by various factors, including aging, high alcohol consumption, smoking, drug use, and certain medical prescriptions.
Certain medical conditions affecting the liver such as hepatitis, fatty liver disease, hemochromatosis, liver cancer, and heart failure, can all cause damage to the liver, leading to elevated ALT levels.
What are the effects of having high ALT?
High ALT levels primarily signify potential liver damage, possibly resulting in fatigue, abdominal pain, jaundice, and cognitive effects, as well as digestion issues.
These symptoms are due to underlying conditions affecting the liver.
How can I lower my ALT through lifestyle changes?
You can lower your ALT levels by eating a balanced diet, limiting processed foods, exercising regularly, reducing alcohol intake, quitting smoking, and avoiding raw or undercooked seafood.
These practices contribute to overall liver health and can help reduce ALT levels.
Are there herbal or over-the-counter medications to lower ALT levels?
Yes, supplements like Vitamin E, Vitamin C, Selenium, Milk Thistle, and Licorice Root potentially contribute to lowering ALT levels.
However, as with all supplements and medications, they should always be taken as instructed by your healthcare provider.
