AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase)
AST is an enzyme found in liver, muscle, and heart. Elevated AST can signal liver damage, but it also rises after intense exercise or muscle injury.
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What AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) measures
AST is an enzyme present in the liver but also in muscle, heart, and red blood cells. Doctors typically interpret AST alongside ALT — a high AST/ALT ratio (above 2) can suggest alcoholic liver damage, while AST alone may simply reflect muscle activity.
Normal ranges
Reference ranges may vary slightly by lab. Always use the range provided on your specific test report.
What affects your ast (aspartate aminotransferase) level
- Liver disease (similar causes as ALT)
- Alcohol use (often raises AST more than ALT)
- Intense exercise or muscle injury
- Heart conditions (less common)
- Hemolysis (red blood cell breakdown)
- Certain medications
Foods that may help
Coffee
Lowers liver enzymes including AST in observational studies
Leafy greens
Antioxidants support liver detox pathways
Olive oil and avocado
Mediterranean fats reduce liver inflammation
Fatty fish
Omega-3s reduce liver fat
Beets, carrots, citrus
Liver-supportive antioxidants and bitter compounds
When to see your doctor
Persistent AST elevation, especially with an AST/ALT ratio above 2, warrants evaluation for alcohol-related liver disease. Any value above 3× upper limit needs prompt workup — including viral hepatitis screening and abdominal imaging.
Related biomarkers
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Educational content only · Not medical advice