Why Monitoring Liver Enzymes Is Crucial for Long-Term Health
Liver enzymes play a vital role in maintaining our overall health and well-being. These enzymes, produced by the liver, are crucial for various metabolic processes, and fluctuations in their levels can indicate potential health issues. In this article, we will delve into what liver enzymes are, how they function within our bodies, and their significance in diagnosing liver health.
What Are Liver Enzymes?
Liver enzymes are proteins that facilitate biochemical reactions in the liver. They help in various processes, including detoxification, metabolism of nutrients, and the synthesis of essential proteins. The two main types of liver enzymes that we often hear about are:
- Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT): Primarily found in the liver, ALT plays a key role in amino acid metabolism. Elevated levels of ALT can indicate liver damage.
- Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST): Found in the liver, heart, and muscles, AST is also involved in amino acid metabolism. It can be elevated due to liver damage but may also rise from other conditions affecting the heart or muscles.
In addition to ALT and AST, there are other important liver enzymes, such as:
- Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP): Involved in breaking down proteins and associated with bile production. High levels can indicate bile duct obstruction.
- Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT): Often elevated in cases of bile duct problems or alcohol abuse.
