You've got your report and one line is marked high. Before you search for a cure, read what each number measures. This guide uses both the names you'll see on Indian lab reports, SGPT and SGOT, and the international ones, ALT and AST. It's part of our guide to supporting your liver naturally.
What does a liver function test measure?
It measures enzymes, proteins and a waste product in your blood. MedlinePlus says these tests can show how well the liver is working or whether it may be damaged, but they usually can't diagnose a specific disease on their own [1].
What is the normal range for each marker?
These are average ranges from Cleveland Clinic [2]. Normal ranges differ by sex, body size and laboratory, so always use the range printed on your own report.
| Marker | Also called | Average normal range | What it tells you |
|---|---|---|---|
| ALT | SGPT | 0 to 45 IU/L | A liver enzyme that rises with liver injury |
| AST | SGOT | 0 to 35 IU/L | An enzyme that rises with liver injury |
| ALP | Alkaline phosphatase | 30 to 120 IU/L | An enzyme that can also reflect bone disease |
| GGT | Gamma GT | 0 to 30 IU/L | A liver enzyme |
| Bilirubin | 2 to 17 micromol/L | A waste product from old red blood cells, mostly removed by the liver | |
| Albumin | 40 to 60 g/L | A protein made by the liver | |
| Total protein | 6.3 to 8.0 g/dL | All blood proteins, including albumin and globulins | |
| Prothrombin time | PT | 10.9 to 12.5 seconds | How long blood takes to clot |
Check the units too. Many reports show bilirubin in mg/dL rather than micromol/L (17 micromol/L is about 1 mg/dL), and albumin in g/dL (40 g/L is 4 g/dL).
What do high SGPT and SGOT mean?
They may mean the liver is under stress or injured. Cleveland Clinic explains that these are the enzymes most commonly released into the blood when the liver is stressed. It also notes that when AST is twice as high as ALT, that points to alcohol-related injury, while equal rises suggest a non-alcohol cause such as infection or other toxins [2].
That's a clue for your doctor, not a diagnosis. MedlinePlus points out that abnormal results don't always mean a liver problem, and that a recent illness can cause temporary changes that are rechecked later [1].
Do you need to fast for an LFT?
Usually yes. MedlinePlus says fasting for about 10 to 12 hours is typically needed. Tell your doctor about every medicine you take, but don't stop any unless you're told to [1].
Who should get an LFT?
Doctors may suggest one if you have symptoms such as nausea, low appetite, tiredness, yellow skin or eyes, belly pain or swelling, dark urine, light stools or frequent itching. They may also suggest one without symptoms if you have a family history of liver disease, alcohol use disorder, obesity or diabetes, take medicines that can harm the liver, or may have been exposed to hepatitis [1].
What should you do about an abnormal result?
- Take the full report to your doctor, and bring a list of your medicines and supplements.
- Expect possible next steps such as a repeat test, imaging or blood tests for specific viruses [2].
- Be honest about alcohol. It changes how the numbers are read, and our guide to alcohol and your liver explains why.
Where do supplements fit?
After the doctor, if at all. No supplement should be your response to an abnormal report, and we don't claim that Saabhi Liver Detox Capsules or any of our products lower liver enzymes. They're a daily wellness supplement, not a treatment. If you've got an abnormal LFT and want to take one, show your doctor the label first, and read milk thistle's side effects and interactions.
Frequently asked questions
Is SGPT the same as ALT?
Yes. SGPT and ALT are two names for the same enzyme, and SGOT and AST are two names for another. Indian lab reports often show both.
Can an LFT diagnose fatty liver?
Not on its own. Liver function tests can point your doctor in the right direction, but you may need imaging or other tests for a diagnosis.
Is a slightly high SGPT serious?
It depends on the rest of your report, your symptoms and your history. Abnormal results don't always mean a liver problem, and some are temporary, so ask your doctor to read it in context.
Sources
- MedlinePlus. Liver Function Tests. Updated December 2023. medlineplus.gov
- Cleveland Clinic. Liver Function Tests. Updated November 2022. clevelandclinic.org
