Introduction

Elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels in the blood can indicate liver damage or inflammation. ALT is an enzyme that helps break down proteins in the liver, so lower levels signify a healthier liver. Here are 14 steps you can take to help lower your ALT levels and maintain optimal liver health.

1. Limit alcohol consumption: Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can increase ALT levels and cause liver damage. Reduce your intake or eliminate it altogether to protect your liver.

2. Maintain a healthy weight: Losing weight if you are overweight or obese can significantly decrease ALT levels and improve overall liver function.

3. Eat a balanced diet: Consume a well-rounded diet that includes fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats to provide your liver with essential nutrients and support its function.

4. Exercise regularly: Engaging in regular physical activity helps support liver health and can lower ALT levels.

5. Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated is crucial for overall health, including maintaining proper liver function.

6. Avoid medications that harm the liver: Some medications, such as certain pain relievers and statins, can cause elevated ALT levels and contribute to liver damage. Consult your doctor about alternative medications if necessary.

7. Manage underlying medical conditions: Chronic illnesses, like diabetes or hepatitis, can harm the liver and raise ALT levels. Properly managing these conditions will benefit not just your liver but your entire body as well.

8. Monitor and control cholesterol levels: High cholesterol has been linked to increased risk for fatty liver disease – a condition leading to higher ALT blood levels.

9. Consume antioxidants: Foods rich in antioxidants like berries, leafy greens, nuts, and seeds can help protect the liver from cellular damage caused by inflammation or disease.

10. Reduce exposure to environmental toxins: Minimize your contact with harmful chemicals found in pollutants like industrial cleaning products, cigarette smoke, and heavy metals.

11. Get enough sleep: Sleeping is essential for all aspects of health, including liver function. Ensure you get 7-8 hours of restorative sleep each night.

12. Limit processed foods: High-fat, high-sugar processed foods can burden the liver and elevate ALT levels. Decrease your consumption by opting for whole foods instead.

13. Consider natural supplements: Milk thistle, N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), and silymarin are a few natural supplements that may help improve liver function and lower ALT levels.

14. Consult a healthcare professional: If you struggle with persistently high ALT levels or suspect that you have liver issues, seek advice from a healthcare professional for personalized guidance and recommendations.

Conclusion

By adopting these 14 steps in your daily life, you can help lower your ALT levels and promote better liver health. Remember to consult a doctor or healthcare professional for personalized advice and support before starting any new regimen or making significant lifestyle changes.