Your ALAT level is one of the most important liver enzymes measured in a blood test. ALAT (alanine aminotransferase) is found primarily in liver cells. When liver cells are damaged, ALAT leaks into your bloodstream.
Normal values
Men: below 45 U/L. Women: below 35 U/L. Some guidelines use lower thresholds for better early detection.
Causes of elevated ALAT
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (most common in the Netherlands), excessive alcohol, medications (statins, paracetamol), viral hepatitis and intense exercise. Less common: autoimmune hepatitis, haemochromatosis, coeliac disease.
How high is too high?
1-2x upper limit: mild. 2-5x: moderate, warrants investigation. 5-10x: significant liver damage. Above 10x: severe, requires immediate medical assessment.
What to do
Limit alcohol, work towards a healthy weight (5-10% loss significantly improves fatty liver), review medications with your doctor, and consider repeat testing after 4-6 weeks.
Frequently asked questions
Can I have elevated ALAT without symptoms?
Yes, this is common. The liver has no nerve endings, so early damage typically causes no pain. This makes blood testing valuable as screening.
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