Doctor's Assessment Included
Every result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.
ALT: Normal Values and What a High ALT Means
ALT is a liver enzyme that active individuals should monitor regularly. Intense training, high-protein diets, and performance supplements can all influence liver enzyme levels, making ALT an important marker for physical health management.
Reference Ranges
Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.
What It Measures
ALT is an enzyme found predominantly in liver cells. When liver cells are damaged or inflamed, ALT is released into the bloodstream, causing levels to rise.
This test measures the concentration of ALT in your blood. Because ALT is more specific to the liver than other enzymes like AST, it is considered one of the most reliable markers of liver health.
Why It Matters
ALT levels provide important insight into liver function. Elevated levels may indicate conditions such as hepatitis, fatty liver disease, or medication-related liver damage.
Early detection of elevated ALT can help identify liver problems before symptoms develop, allowing for timely intervention and lifestyle modifications.
When to Test
Testing may be recommended as part of routine health screening, when liver disease is suspected, or when taking medications that may affect the liver.
Regular monitoring may also be appropriate for individuals who consume alcohol regularly, have a history of liver disease, or are managing conditions such as obesity or diabetes.
Symptoms
Low Levels
High Levels
Abdominal pain or discomfort, particularly in the upper right area
Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)
Dark urine
Nausea or loss of appetite
Recommendations
Male
Normal ALT indicates healthy liver function. Maintain a balanced diet and moderate alcohol consumption.
Elevated ALT may indicate liver cell damage. Consider reducing alcohol intake, reviewing medications, and consulting your healthcare provider for liver evaluation.
Female
Normal ALT indicates healthy liver function. Maintain a balanced diet and moderate alcohol consumption.
Elevated ALT may indicate liver cell damage. Consider reducing alcohol intake, reviewing medications, and consulting your healthcare provider for liver evaluation.
Lifestyle Tips
Limit alcohol consumption, as excessive intake is a common cause of elevated ALT levels. Maintain a healthy weight through balanced nutrition and regular exercise, as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is increasingly common.
Review all medications and supplements with your healthcare provider, as some may affect liver function. Stay well hydrated and include liver-supportive foods such as leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, and foods rich in antioxidants.