SGPT & SGOT are the enzymes produced normally by the liver & we can assess the fitness of your liver through the SGPT or SGOT values. High SGPT, concomitantly SGOT values are usually an indication of liver cell injury. SGPT means Serum Glutamic Pyruvic Transaminase or Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is more of indicator of liver inflammation (cirrhosis & hepatitis). SGOT is Serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase or Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), indicator of heart & skeletal muscle functioning also.
Liver filters the blood in the body & breaks down poisonous substances, such as alcohol, chemicals, or drugs. The liver also produces bile, which helps digest fats & carries away waste.
Normal levels of SGPT are 7-56 units/liter and serum & SGOT level is 5-40 units/liter. Very high levels (>75 times upper reference limit) suggest ischemic or toxic injury to the liver.
Glutamate Pyruvate Transaminase is an enzyme found in heart cells, kidney, muscles & liver. SGPT rises dramatically in acute liver damage. Elevated liver biochemical test levels may be found in up to 50% of patients with fatty liver (steatosis) & are present in 80% of patient with advanced non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
If your SGOT values are high, that means one of the organs or muscles containing the enzyme could be damaged; like pancreatitis, heart damage; possibly from a heart attack, muscle injuries, kidney disease, liver damage from toxins such as excess of alcohol, acute hepatitis, gallbladder disease etc. Your doctor may order follow-up tests to rule out another diagnosis.
When liver enzymes are higher, you should avoid alcohol, junk foods, added sugar like candy, cookies, sodas, fruit juices, fried foods, salt, white bread, rice, pasta, red meat etc.
If the liver is healthy then our body is healthy too. Liver helps in many of body functions also helping to flush out toxins by boosting the metabolism. One should take care of the liver by maintaining a healthy lifestyle or following healthy habits. Nutritious organic vegetables and fruits which are high in antioxidants, such as papaya, kiwi, pomegranate, carrot, spinach etc. are good for the liver. Yoga is a very effective tool to keep your liver toned.