When you think of metabolism, you might picture how quickly your body burns calories or processes carbs. But behind the scenes, your liver plays a major role in regulating blood sugar, storing energy, and managing fat. That’s why liver enzyme levels in your lab report may offer important clues about your overall metabolic health.

🧪 What Are Liver Enzymes?

Liver enzymes are proteins that help your liver function properly. When liver cells are damaged or inflamed, these enzymes can leak into your bloodstream, raising your lab values.

The two most commonly tested liver enzymes are:

• ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase): Often the first enzyme to rise when liver function is stressed

• AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase): Another marker of liver stress, though it is also found in other organs

Doctors often compare ALT and AST levels together to assess how your liver is functioning.

🔍 Why Are They Relevant to Metabolism?

If your ALT or AST is elevated, it may point to one of several metabolic issues:

1. Insulin Resistance or Type 2 Diabetes

High blood sugar over time can damage liver cells. Studies show that people with elevated liver enzymes are more likely to have insulin resistance, even if their blood sugar looks normal on the surface.

2. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

This condition occurs when fat builds up in the liver. It’s strongly tied to obesity, high triglycerides, and insulin resistance. Early NAFLD often has no symptoms, but liver enzymes may be elevated long before any damage is felt.

3. Medication or Supplement Effects

Some medications and even over-the-counter supplements can stress the liver. That’s why it’s important to always review your labs with a provider who knows your full medication history.

4. Alcohol Consumption

Regular alcohol intake, even in moderate amounts, can raise liver enzymes and contribute to inflammation or fat buildup in the liver. Alcohol-related liver stress can compound insulin resistance and make blood sugar harder to control.

⚠️ What Counts as Elevated?

Normal ranges can vary by lab, but generally:

• ALT: 0 to 44 units per liter (U/L)

• AST: 0 to 40 units per liter (U/L)

Even mildly elevated levels may deserve attention, especially if you have other signs of metabolic dysfunction like weight gain, high cholesterol, or elevated A1c. A single high value doesn’t always mean there’s a problem, but patterns over time can be telling.

🧭 What You Can Do if Your Liver Enzymes Are High

• Get tested regularly: Routine labs including a CMP (comprehensive metabolic panel) can catch elevations early

• Cut back on added sugars and refined carbs: These are strongly tied to liver fat buildup

• Limit or avoid alcohol and avoid unnecessary supplements: Especially those not reviewed by your healthcare team

• Increase movement and strength training: Exercise helps reduce liver fat and improve insulin sensitivity

• Ask about additional tests: Imaging or advanced labs may be needed to assess liver fat or fibrosis

• Treat underlying insulin resistance: This is often the root issue for liver strain in people with diabetes or prediabetes

📅 Ready to Get Clarity on Your Metabolic Health?

Reach7 offers on-site lab testing, including liver enzyme panels, A1c, insulin levels, and more. Members receive personalized result reviews and clear action plans to support healthier liver and metabolic function.

Book your visit today and take the first step toward understanding your numbers and improving your long-term health.