Written By: IJCP Editorial Team

Published On: 26 Mar, 2024 6:00 PM | Updated On: 10 May, 2024 11:07 AM

Liver Health: How to Reduce SGOT and SGPT Levels

Elevated levels of SGOT and SGPT can be a cause for concern as it is an indication of liver damage or disease, resulting in chronic and fatal outcomes. Lifestyle-related malices and rampant alcoholism are among the significant contributors, and a proactive approach can help avert clinical adversities associated with liver health.

The liver, a vital organ situated in the upper right quadrant of the abdominal cavity, plays a pivotal role in maintaining physiological homeostasis and ensuring overall health. Understanding the liver's multifaceted functions unveils its indispensable role in sustaining bodily integrity and systemic health. It is a well-aware fact that the liver plays a crucial role in maintaining holistic well-being and promoting longevity through various essential functions, including:

• Bile production, a chemical essential for converting fats into energy during the digestive process.

• Albumin synthesis, a blood protein facilitating the transport of hormones, drugs, and fatty acids throughout the body.

• Bilirubin processing, a byproduct of red blood cell breakdown, prevents its accumulation and the onset of jaundice, characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes.

• Metabolizing proteins, carbohydrates, and fats to make them usable by the body.

• Waste Product Removal and detoxification

• Immune Response Control

• Blood Sugar Regulation by supplying glucose when needed and removing excess glucose from the blood.

• Blood Clotting

• Blood Volume Regulation

• Glycogen and Vitamin Storage

Liver Enzymes and Their Role in Liver Function

Liver enzymes, including aspartate transaminase (AST), also known as serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), and alanine transaminase (ALT), also known as serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), play a pivotal role in maintaining the intricate balance of liver function. These enzymes, predominantly synthesized within hepatocytes, participate in critical metabolic processes contributing to overall physiological well-being.

Elevated levels of liver enzymes, specifically SGOT (Serum Glutamic Oxaloacetic Transaminase) and SGPT (Serum Glutamic Pyruvic Transaminase) can indicate liver stress or damage, which could be caused by various factors, including excessive alcohol consumption, viral hepatitis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), or certain medications. SGOT is commonly found in various tissues, whereas SGPT is specific to the liver, making them reliable indicators of hepatic health. Clinically, the assessment of liver enzyme levels through blood tests aids in diagnosing liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or fatty liver disease. Understanding the nuances of liver enzymes is fundamental to comprehending hepatic function and discerning potential medical issues, underscoring their importance in clinical diagnostics and healthcare management.

Ways to Reduce SGOT and SGPT Levels

Lifestyle Adjustments:

• Eliminate or minimize alcohol consumption to mitigate the risk of increased SGPT levels.

• Cease smoking to prevent liver damage and the subsequent elevation of SGPT levels.

• Engage in regular physical activity for at least 30 minutes a day, five times a week, to enhance liver function and facilitate weight loss.

• Avert the risk of liver disease and elevated SGPT levels by adopting a healthy diet and regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight.

• Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep per night to prevent liver damage associated with insufficient sleep.

Dietary Modifications:

• Consume a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats to promote liver function and lower SGPT levels.

• Limit or eliminate sugary drinks and snacks, as well as processed foods, to prevent an increase in SGPT levels.

• Consume Antioxidant-Rich foods like berries, dark leafy greens, nuts, and seeds to protect the liver and lower SGPT levels.

• Limit the consumption of fried foods, fatty meats, and high-fat dairy products to prevent the development of liver disease and elevated SGPT levels.

• Drink 8-10 glasses of water daily to flush toxins from the liver and decrease SGPT levels.

Natural Approaches

• Incorporate herbal teas like dandelion root, chamomile, and green tea into your routine to enhance liver function and reduce SGPT levels.

• Food supplements such as probiotics and prebiotics can help maintain your gut health, which is essential for weight loss and enhanced immunity.

Medical Oversight

• Obesity is often linked to liver diseases. Maintaining a healthy weight helps reduce the risk of liver-related issues.

• Vaccination against hepatitis viruses, especially Hepatitis B and C, is a preventive measure to protect the liver.

• Certain medications can contribute to liver damage. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting new medications; only use them as prescribed.

• Be vigilant for symptoms like fatigue, abdominal pain, or jaundice, and promptly seek medical attention.

• Undergo regular health check-ups, including liver function tests, to help in the early detection of any abnormalities, allowing prompt intervention.

• Take the prescribed medicines to maintain your optimal health and avert clinical adversities.

 Conclusion:

By integrating these tips into your daily routine and collaborating closely with your healthcare provider, you can swiftly reduce SGPT levels, promoting improved liver health. Maintaining optimal SGPT levels is essential to safeguard the liver from potential damage and promote overall health.