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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Signs Your Body Is Not Digesting Protein Properly

Protein is one of the most important macronutrients. It builds your muscles, supports your skin and hair, and helps in immune function. But what if your body isn’t breaking it down properly?

Let’s explore the key signs your body is not digesting protein properly, why this happens, and what you can do to fix it naturally.

What Happens During Protein Digestion?

When you eat protein (like eggs, meat, or legumes), your stomach produces hydrochloric acid (HCl) and pepsin to begin digestion. Then, enzymes from your pancreas break proteins down into amino acids, which are absorbed by your small intestine.

If any part of this process is disrupted, your body may fail to get enough amino acids—even if you're eating enough protein.

Common Signs of Poor Protein Digestion

1. Bloating and Gas

If you regularly feel bloated or gassy after protein-rich meals, it may be due to undigested proteins fermenting in your gut. This can also lead to discomfort and smelly flatulence.

Tip: Try smaller meals and add ginger or apple cider vinegar before meals to aid digestion.

2. Muscle Weakness

Even with regular workouts, you may struggle to build or maintain muscle. This could mean you're not absorbing enough amino acids, which are vital for muscle repair and strength.

Tip: Check for zinc or B-vitamin deficiencies, which affect protein metabolism.

3. Hair Loss & Brittle Nails

Protein forms the base of keratin, which keeps your hair and nails strong. Poor digestion can result in thinning hair or slow nail growth.

Tip: Add biotin-rich foods and ensure your protein intake is paired with proper digestion support.

4. Fatigue and Low Energy

Amino acids help make neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. If you’re not absorbing protein properly, you might feel tired, foggy, or depressed.

Tip: Add enzyme-rich foods like pineapple (bromelain) and papaya (papain) to your diet.

5. Foul-Smelling Stool or Undigested Food

Visible food in your stool or very foul-smelling bowel movements are signs that digestion is incomplete. You may also notice loose stools or diarrhea after eating protein.

Tip: Consider getting a stool test to check for fat or protein malabsorption.

Causes of Poor Protein Digestion

Low stomach acid (Hypochlorhydria)
Pancreatic enzyme deficiency
Gut inflammation (IBS, IBD, SIBO)
Liver or gallbladder issues
Aging (natural enzyme decline)
Zinc or B12 deficiency

Relevant Tests You Can Book from SecondMedic

You can check for underlying causes through:

Serum Total Protein Test
Serum Albumin Test
Stool analysis
Vitamin B12 / Zinc profile
Digestive enzyme panel

All these are available through SecondMedic.com, often with home collection via Thyrocare.

How to Improve Protein Digestion Naturally

1. Chew Your Food Thoroughly

Digestion begins in the mouth. Chewing helps enzymes break food down faster in the gut.

2. Eat in a Calm State

Stress affects stomach acid production. Eat slowly, without distractions.

3. Use Natural Digestive Aids

Ginger
Apple cider vinegar
Lemon water
Herbal teas (peppermint, chamomile)

4. Include Digestive Enzymes

Supplements with protease help in breaking down proteins. Look for broad-spectrum enzyme blends.

5. Optimize Gut Health

Add probiotics like yogurt or fermented foods (kimchi, kanji, kefir) to help nutrient absorption.

When to See a Doctor

If symptoms persist despite dietary changes, consult a gastroenterologist. Chronic protein malabsorption can lead to:

Nutrient deficiencies
Immune weakness
Muscle loss
Hair thinning

Early testing and treatment can prevent long-term health complications.

Conclusion

If you're experiencing bloating, fatigue, hair loss, or weak muscles—even with a protein-rich diet—your body might not be digesting protein properly. Identifying and addressing the root cause can improve your digestion, energy levels, and overall health.

Don’t ignore the signs your body is not digesting protein properly. Start by checking your symptoms, improving your diet, and booking the right lab tests through trusted platforms like SecondMedic.

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