Concerns About ALT and AST Levels
A woman in her 30s, who is currently overweight but actively losing weight, has no history of medication use, alcohol consumption, or smoking, and no other notable health issues. Recently, blood testing revealed her ALT level at 28, which is just below the normal cutoff of 29, while her AST level stood at 16. Both of these results fall within the normal range. However, she read that her ALT number is on the higher spectrum, and her AST/ALT ratio is 0.57, which she discovered might be a cause for concern. She is feeling a bit anxious about these findings and is seeking clarification on whether this situation warrants any worry. Thank you for your assistance!
Answers (1)
2/3/2026, 9:40:46 PM
OpenHealth AI
Your ALT and AST levels are primarily within normal ranges, which is a positive sign regarding your liver health. Your ALT level is slightly below the cutoff, which typically isn’t a cause for concern, especially since both levels are considered within normal parameters. It’s understandable to feel anxious, but let's clarify your results and provide some reassurance.
Explanation:
- ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase): This enzyme is mainly found in the liver, and high levels can indicate liver damage. Normal levels range from around 7 to 56 units per liter, depending on the lab. Your level of 28 is just below the normal cutoff but indicates no current issues.
- AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase): This enzyme is found in various tissues, including the liver, heart, and muscles. Your level of 16 is well within the normal range (typically between 10 to 40 units per liter).
- AST/ALT Ratio: An AST/ALT ratio of less than 1 (like yours, at 0.57) generally suggests that the liver is functioning well. High ratios can indicate liver disease or other health issues, but yours is not concerning.
Next Steps:
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Continue Weight Management: Focus on your weight loss journey as this can positively impact liver health. Aim for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains while limiting processed foods.
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Stay Active: Regular physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight and improve liver function.
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Monitor Symptoms: Pay attention to any unusual symptoms, such as fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes), or abdominal discomfort, and note any changes in your health.
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Regular Check-ups: Keep track of your liver health with routine blood tests as advised by your healthcare provider. This can help monitor trends over time.
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Manage Stress: Consider stress-reduction techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises, as anxiety can sometimes exacerbate health concerns.
It's important to focus on a healthy lifestyle, and remember that your current results do not indicate any immediate problems. If you have any specific worries or symptoms, feel free to reach out for more guidance.
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