Liver

ALAT

Alanine Aminotransferase (ALAT / ALT) is a liver enzyme that helps process amino acids and detoxify the body.

What it is

Alanine Aminotransferase (ALAT / ALT) is a liver enzyme that helps process amino acids and detoxify the body. High ALT levels indicate liver inflammation, fatty liver disease, or medication toxicity. Low ALT levels are rare but may be linked to malnutrition or muscle loss. Monitoring ALT helps assess liver function, ensuring early detection of liver damage and guiding dietary and lifestyle choices to support optimal liver health and metabolic function.

What affects your levels

High ALT is often caused by liver disease, alcohol overuse, obesity, metabolic syndrome, or viral infections like hepatitis. Certain medications, high sugar intake, and excessive processed foods may also contribute. Low ALT may result from vitamin B6 deficiency, malnutrition, or aging. Addressing underlying lifestyle and dietary factors helps regulate ALT levels, preventing liver damage and supporting detoxification processes.

Signs and symptoms

High ALT levels often cause no symptoms until liver damage progresses, leading to fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, and jaundice. Low ALT is rarely problematic but may indicate nutrient deficiencies. Regular liver enzyme monitoring, a balanced diet, and reduced alcohol intake help maintain optimal liver function, ensuring metabolic health and toxin elimination.

Foods that help

For liver health, cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and Brussels sprouts support detoxification. Antioxidant-rich foods such as berries, green tea, and turmeric reduce liver inflammation. Omega-3-rich sources like salmon and walnuts protect liver function. Fiber-rich foods like whole grains and legumes support healthy digestion. A diet emphasizing anti-inflammatory foods helps maintain stable ALT levels and supports liver repair and overall metabolic health.

Foods to limit

Excess alcohol, processed meats, fried foods, and high-fructose corn syrup can elevate ALT and damage the liver. Artificial additives, trans fats, and excessive refined carbohydrates contribute to inflammation. Reducing these foods while increasing whole, unprocessed foods helps restore liver function, preventing fatty liver disease and supporting overall detoxification.

Educational information only — not a diagnosis. Every Pheno result is interpreted in context and reviewed by a physician.

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