What Is SGPT in Liver Test? | Understanding SGPT Levels

Imagine going for a routine health check-up, and your doctor hands you a report filled with numbers—one of them being SGPT (ALT). You might wonder, What is SGPT, and why does it matter?

Your liver is one of the most hardworking organs in your body. It processes nutrients, filters toxins, and keeps your body functioning smoothly. But how do you know if your liver is healthy? That’s where the Liver function test comes in, and one key marker in these tests is the SGPT Test, also known as ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase).

What is SGPT in the Liver Test?

SGPT (Serum Glutamate Pyruvate Transaminase), now commonly referred to as ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase), is an enzyme primarily found in liver cells. When your liver is functioning normally, small amounts of SGPT (ALT) are present in your bloodstream. However, when liver cells are damaged due to illness, alcohol, medications, or lifestyle factors, SGPT (ALT) levels rise.

Doctors use the SGPT level / ALT level to assess liver health and detect possible liver conditions like fatty liver, hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver infections. While a slightly elevated SGPT level may not be a cause for immediate concern, significantly high levels often indicate an underlying liver issue.

Normal SGPT Levels & When to Be Concerned

Wondering what a healthy ALT level looks like? Here’s a general reference:

• Men: 10 - 40 U/L
• Women: 7 - 35 U/L
• Children: 8 - 32 U/L

Note: These values may vary slightly based on the laboratory and testing method.

When Should You Worry?

If your SGPT Test levels are moderately or significantly high, it could be a sign of:

• Liver inflammation (Hepatitis A, B, or C)
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
• Alcohol-related liver damage
• Side effects of medications
• Obesity-related liver strain

High SGPT levels do not always indicate a disease, but they do signal that your liver might need some attention. If your report shows elevated ALT, it’s best to consult a doctor and get further tests.

Causes of Elevated SGPT Levels

Several factors can contribute to high ALT levels, including:

• Liver diseases: Hepatitis, fatty liver, cirrhosis
• Excessive alcohol consumption: Damages liver cells
• Obesity & diabetes: Increase fat accumulation in the liver
• Medications: Some painkillers, antibiotics, and cholesterol-lowering drugs
• Poor diet: High-fat, processed foods put stress on the liver

How to Maintain Healthy SGPT Levels?

Keeping your liver healthy is easier than you think. Here are a few lifestyle changes that help:

• Eat a liver-friendly diet: Include leafy greens, fresh fruits, and lean proteins.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water helps flush toxins.
• Exercise regularly: Helps maintain a healthy weight and reduce fat buildup in the liver.
• Avoid excessive alcohol: Alcohol is one of the biggest culprits behind liver damage.
• Get regular Liver Tests: Early detection helps prevent serious liver conditions.

Why Getting a Liver Test on Time is Crucial

Many liver diseases are silent killers, they show no symptoms until significant damage has occurred. This is why taking a Liver function test on time is critical.

With timely detection, liver diseases can be managed or even reversed. Don’t wait for symptoms—if you have risk factors like obesity, alcohol consumption, or family history, get tested regularly.

How Orange Health Labs Makes This Easy

Worried about scheduling a lab visit? Orange Health Labs brings the lab to your home!

• At-home sample collection: A phlebotomist collects your sample at your convenience within 60 mins of booking.
• Accurate & fast results: Get reports in 6 hours.
• Doctor consultation: Easily discuss your results with a medical expert.
• No waiting, no hassle: Book your blood test online and get tested from the comfort of your home.

Take charge of your liver health today.

Published Date: 2025-02-18