AST
AST (aspartate aminotransferase) is an enzyme found in the liver, but also in muscles and the heart. It's read together with ALT to understand what's going on in the liver.
Your reading
This app uses 8–40 U/L. Because muscles contain a lot of AST, it often rises after intense exercise, which is common in athletes. The ratio of AST to ALT gives doctors extra clues, for example about alcohol-related liver strain.
What may help
- —Skipping hard workouts for a few days before the test
- —Limiting alcohol
- —The same steps that protect the liver generally: healthy weight, less sugar
When to talk to a doctor
If AST stays high on a repeat test taken after a few rest days, especially if ALT is high too.
Common questions
What is AST?
AST (aspartate aminotransferase) is an enzyme found in the liver, but also in muscles and the heart. It's read together with ALT to understand what's going on in the liver.
What is a normal AST level?
Daygo uses 8–40 U/L as the reference range. This app uses 8–40 U/L. Because muscles contain a lot of AST, it often rises after intense exercise, which is common in athletes. The ratio of AST to ALT gives doctors extra clues, for example about alcohol-related liver strain.
How can I improve my AST?
Skipping hard workouts for a few days before the test. Limiting alcohol. The same steps that protect the liver generally: healthy weight, less sugar.
When should I see a doctor about AST?
If AST stays high on a repeat test taken after a few rest days, especially if ALT is high too.
Source: MedlinePlus (NIH). Reference ranges are standard adult intervals — your own lab may report a different range for your age, sex, or method. This isn't medical advice; always go by the range on your actual results and talk to a clinician about anything that concerns you.