What is the normal range of SGPT and SGOT?

SGPT (ALT): 7–56 U/L and SGOT (AST): 8–48 U/L. Ranges may slightly vary depending on the lab.

Is fasting required before a liver enzyme test?

Fasting is not always required. Follow your doctor's or diagnostic lab’s instructions.

Which tests should I take for a complete liver check-up?

A full Liver Function Test (LFT) is ideal. It includes SGPT, SGOT, Bilirubin, ALP, GGT, and proteins like Albumin.

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Published on: May 21, 2025
4 minute read
By: Secondmedic Expert

Liver Enzymes Test Explained – What SGPT/SGOT Mean

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The liver is one of the most important organs in your body. It performs hundreds of functions, including filtering toxins, producing bile, and supporting digestion and metabolism. When your liver is under stress or not functioning properly, certain enzymes in your blood can increase. Two of the most common enzymes tested are SGPT (ALT) and SGOT (AST). In this blog, we will break down what these enzymes mean, why your doctor might suggest this test, and what the results indicate.

What is a Liver Enzymes Test?

A liver enzymes test is a type of blood test used to evaluate the health of your liver. It measures specific proteins (called enzymes) that the liver releases into your blood. When liver cells are damaged, these enzymes leak into your bloodstream. The most commonly tested liver enzymes are:

SGPT (ALT) – Serum Glutamic Pyruvic Transaminase
SGOT (AST) – Serum Glutamic Oxaloacetic Transaminase

Why Do Doctors Recommend a Liver Enzymes Test?

Your doctor may ask for a liver enzymes test if you show symptoms of liver problems or are at risk due to lifestyle or existing health conditions. Some common reasons include:

Fatigue or weakness
Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
Abdominal pain or swelling
Dark urine or pale stools
Alcohol consumption
Hepatitis (A, B, or C)
Obesity or fatty liver
Long-term medication usage
Diabetes or high cholesterol

What is SGPT (ALT)?

SGPT, also known as ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase), is an enzyme mainly found in the liver. It plays a role in converting proteins into energy for liver cells. When liver cells are damaged or inflamed, SGPT leaks into the bloodstream.

Normal SGPT Levels:

For men: 7 to 56 units per liter of blood
For women: 7 to 45 units per liter

What Does High SGPT Mean?

High SGPT levels may indicate:

Liver inflammation (Hepatitis)
Fatty liver disease
Alcohol-related liver damage
Liver infection or injury
Side effects of medications
Obesity-related liver stress

Sometimes, even intense physical activity or certain supplements can temporarily raise SGPT levels.

What is SGOT (AST)?

SGOT, also known as AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase), is an enzyme found not just in the liver, but also in the heart, kidneys, muscles, and brain. So, while it can point to liver damage, it may also indicate problems in other organs.

Normal SGOT Levels:

For men: 8 to 48 units per liter of blood
For women: 8 to 43 units per liter

What Does High SGOT Mean?

High SGOT levels may be due to:

Liver damage or cirrhosis
Heart disease or recent heart attack
Muscle injuries
Pancreatitis
Alcohol abuse
Use of certain drugs or supplements

If both SGPT and SGOT are elevated, it’s more likely to be a liver-related issue.

SGPT vs SGOT – What's the Difference?

Feature	SGPT (ALT)	SGOT (AST)
Location	Mainly in the liver	Liver, heart, kidneys, muscles, brain
Specificity	More liver-specific	Less liver-specific
Indicates	Liver damage	Liver, heart, or muscle damage
Normal Range	7–56 U/L	8–48 U/L

Conclusion: If only SGPT is high, it's more likely to be liver-specific. If both are high, the doctor may run further tests.

Other Liver Tests Often Done Together

To get a full picture of liver health, doctors may also recommend:

ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) – Linked to bile ducts
GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase) – Linked to alcohol use or bile problems
Bilirubin – Indicates liver’s ability to process waste
Albumin and Total Protein – Reflects liver's protein production
PT/INR – Measures blood clotting, another liver function

What to Do if SGPT/SGOT Are High?

If your test results show high liver enzymes, don’t panic. A one-time elevation doesn’t always mean serious disease. Here's what you should do:

1. Follow-Up Testing

Your doctor may repeat the test after a few weeks or recommend imaging (ultrasound/CT scan) to check for liver fat, fibrosis, or tumors.

2. Lifestyle Changes

Avoid alcohol completely
Maintain a healthy diet (low-fat, high-fiber)
Exercise regularly
Control blood sugar and cholesterol
Stay hydrated

3. Review Medications

Some over-the-counter drugs like paracetamol, or supplements like bodybuilding products, can raise liver enzymes.

4. Monitor Regularly

If you have a chronic condition like diabetes, high cholesterol, or obesity, make liver function tests part of your routine health checks.

When to See a Doctor Immediately

Yellow eyes or skin (jaundice)
Severe abdominal pain
Swelling in legs or abdomen
Confusion or mood changes
Dark-colored urine or light-colored stools

These signs may indicate serious liver issues and need immediate attention.

Final Thoughts

The liver is a silent warrior – it works 24/7 and rarely complains until it's seriously damaged. That’s why regular check-ups, especially liver enzyme tests, are essential for early detection and prevention.

Understanding your SGPT and SGOT levels can give you valuable insights into your liver’s health. Whether you’re dealing with symptoms, managing a chronic condition, or just doing a preventive health check, this simple blood test can help you stay one step ahead.

Call to Action

Worried about your liver health? Book a full liver function test online today and get your results from the comfort of your home. Know your SGPT and SGOT levels now – because your health can’t wait.

Liver Enzymes Test Explained – What SGPT/SGOT Mean – Book Now on SecondMedic.com!

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Read FAQs

A. It helps diagnose liver diseases, monitor liver health, and assess the impact of medications, alcohol, or infections on the liver.

A. SGPT (ALT): 7–56 U/L SGOT (AST): 8–48 U/L Ranges may vary slightly based on labs.

A. Elevated levels may indicate liver inflammation, fatty liver, hepatitis, alcohol-related damage, or side effects from medications.

A. Fasting is not always required, but it's best to follow your doctor’s or lab’s instructions.

A. A Liver Function Test (LFT), which includes SGPT, SGOT, Bilirubin, ALP, GGT, Albumin, and Total Protein, is recommended.

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Excessive Spice Consumption and Stomach Health: What You Need to Know

Spices are an essential part of Indian cooking. From turmeric and cumin to red chili powder and garam masala, spices add color, flavor, and aroma to our meals. Many spices even offer health benefits when used in moderation. However, like everything in life, too much of a good thing can turn harmful.

In this blog, we will discuss the impact of excessive spice consumption on stomach health, the symptoms of spice-induced digestive problems, and how to keep your gut happy and healthy.

Why Do We Love Spicy Food?

Spicy food is popular not just for its taste but also for how it makes us feel. Eating spicy food releases endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, which give a slight “high.” It can also make us feel warm, especially during cold or rainy days. Spices like chili contain capsaicin, which is responsible for the heat. While capsaicin offers some health benefits like boosting metabolism and reducing inflammation, too much of it can irritate the stomach lining.

How Excessive Spices Affect Stomach Health

Let’s look at how too much spice can harm your digestive system:

1. Acidity and Heartburn

One of the most common side effects of spicy food is acidity. Excess spices stimulate acid production in the stomach. When this acid moves upward into the food pipe (esophagus), it causes heartburn and discomfort. Over time, it can lead to conditions like acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

2. Gastric Ulcers

Capsaicin may irritate the stomach lining when consumed in large quantities. This can lead to the development of small sores known as gastric ulcers. Symptoms include sharp abdominal pain, bloating, and nausea. In some severe cases, ulcers can bleed and require medical attention.

3. Digestive Disturbances

Overconsumption of spicy food can disturb the normal digestion process. People may experience gas, bloating, diarrhea, or constipation. This happens because spicy food speeds up the movement of food through the gut, leaving less time for proper absorption.

4. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Triggers

For those already suffering from IBS, spices can be a major trigger. Even a small amount of chili can lead to cramping, urgency, and bowel discomfort. Doctors often advise IBS patients to limit or avoid spicy foods altogether.

5. Loss of Appetite or Taste

Too much spice can numb your taste buds temporarily, making food less enjoyable. Frequent irritation of the stomach lining may also lead to nausea, vomiting, and a reduced appetite over time.

Signs That You’re Overdoing the Spice

Here are some signs that indicate your stomach is not handling the spice well:

Burning sensation in the chest or throat
Frequent burping or belching
Stomach pain after meals
Loose motions or irregular bowel movements
Sour taste in mouth, especially when lying down
Loss of appetite
Constant bloating or gas

Tips to Protect Your Stomach While Enjoying Spices

If you love spicy food but want to avoid stomach issues, follow these simple tips:

1. Balance Your Meal

Add yogurt, milk, or ghee to balance spicy dishes. Dairy helps neutralize the heat and soothes the stomach lining.

2. Cook With Digestive-Friendly Spices

Not all spices are harmful. Use cumin, fennel, and turmeric for flavor and digestion support. Avoid overusing red chili powder or black pepper.

3. Hydrate Well

Drink enough water throughout the day. It helps flush out excess acid and keeps the digestive system smooth.

4. Eat Mindfully

Don’t rush meals. Chew slowly and eat in a calm environment. Avoid lying down immediately after eating.

5. Know Your Tolerance

Each body reacts differently to spices. Understand your limit and reduce spice levels if you start noticing discomfort.

Best Tests to Monitor Your Stomach Health

If you frequently face digestive problems, it’s best to get tested. Here are some suitable tests from www.secondmedic.com powered by Thyrocare:

Complete Health Check-Up
For an overall view of your body functions including liver and stomach health.
H. Pylori Antibody Test
Checks for bacterial infection that causes ulcers.
Liver Function Test (LFT)
To monitor the impact of diet and spice on liver-related digestive enzymes.
Stool Routine & Microscopy
Helpful in detecting infections or digestive issues.
Vitamin B12 & D Tests
Spicy diets sometimes interfere with nutrient absorption.

Conclusion

Spices bring life to our food, but balance is key. While they offer health perks in small amounts, overindulgence can take a toll on your digestive system. By being mindful of what and how much you eat, you can enjoy flavorful meals without putting your stomach at risk.

If you're experiencing discomfort, it's time to listen to your gut and take a break from the heat. Take charge of your digestive health today and consult a doctor or get tested if needed.

Start your wellness journey by understanding the link between Excessive Spice Consumption and Stomach Health—because your stomach deserves better!

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