ALT

What This Marker Means

ALT is a liver enzyme sensitive to liver inflammation and metabolic stress. Unlike AST, ALT is more liver-specific, making it a strong indicator of liver health. Elevated ALT signals liver cell irritation or injury.

How Alcohol Affects This Marker

Alcohol can raise ALT, though typically not as strongly as AST. Repeated heavy drinking may elevate ALT over time. Lower ALT does not rule out alcohol stress if AST is elevated.

How to Discuss With Your Doctor

Ask whether your ALT level indicates liver inflammation. Pair this with AST to discuss alcohol’s specific effect on your liver and whether follow-up labs are needed.