ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase)
ALT is a liver enzyme that leaks into the blood when liver cells are stressed or damaged. Mild elevations are common and often relate to fatty liver, alcohol, or medications.
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What ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) measures
ALT is an enzyme found mostly inside liver cells. Damaged or stressed liver cells release ALT into the bloodstream, so elevated ALT is one of the most sensitive markers of liver injury. Mild elevations are common and don't always indicate serious disease.
Normal ranges
Reference ranges may vary slightly by lab. Always use the range provided on your specific test report.
What affects your alt (alanine aminotransferase) level
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (most common cause of mild elevation)
- Alcohol intake
- Certain medications (acetaminophen, statins, antibiotics)
- Viral hepatitis (A, B, C)
- Obesity and metabolic syndrome
- Intense exercise (transient rise)
Foods that may help
Coffee (2–3 cups/day)
Repeatedly shown to lower ALT and reduce fatty liver
Leafy greens (spinach, kale)
Support glutathione, the liver's detox antioxidant
Olive oil
Reduces liver fat in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Fatty fish
Omega-3s reduce liver fat and inflammation
Beets and artichokes
Traditional liver-supportive foods rich in antioxidants
When to see your doctor
ALT elevated 2–3× upper limit warrants follow-up testing. Persistent elevations or values above 3× upper limit usually require a full liver workup — viral hepatitis screening, ultrasound, and review of medications and alcohol use.
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Educational content only · Not medical advice