Our liver works tirelessly — detoxifying our blood, aiding digestion, and storing energy. Yet, we often notice its distress only when a test reveals elevated enzyme levels like SGOT and SGPT. These two acronyms, common in medical reports, are not just numbers — they are early indicators of liver health and can offer critical clues about what’s happening inside your body.

The Science Behind SGOT and SGPT

SGOT (Serum Glutamic-Oxaloacetic Transaminase)

Also known as AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase), SGOT is an enzyme found in multiple organs — especially the liver, heart, muscles, and kidneys. When these organs are injured, SGOT leaks into the bloodstream, causing a rise in its levels.

Normal range:
10 to 40 U/L (units per liter)

Elevated SGOT can occur due to:

• Liver inflammation or hepatitis
• Muscle injury or heavy exercise
• Heart attack or cardiac muscle stress
• Fatty liver disease

SGPT (Serum Glutamic-Pyruvic Transaminase)

Also known as ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase), SGPT is an enzyme that’s more specific to the liver. It plays a vital role in converting food into energy for liver cells.
When the liver is damaged, SGPT levels rise significantly — making it one of the most sensitive markers for liver function.

Normal range:
7 to 56 U/L

Elevated SGPT commonly indicates:

• Liver cell injury (due to alcohol, fatty liver, or viral hepatitis)
• Medication side effects (painkillers, antibiotics, statins)
• Obesity and insulin resistance
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)

SGOT vs SGPT — What the Ratio Tells You

Doctors often look at the SGOT/SGPT ratio to understand the type and cause of liver injury.

• SGOT/SGPT ratio < 1 → Suggests fatty liver or mild inflammation
• SGOT/SGPT ratio > 2 → Often seen in alcohol-induced liver disease
• Both > 500 U/L → May indicate acute hepatitis or severe injury

This ratio helps differentiate between temporary stress and chronic liver conditions.

What Causes High SGOT and SGPT Levels?

Common Reasons:

1. Alcohol use – One of the leading causes of elevated liver enzymes.
2. Fatty liver (NAFLD/NASH) – Strongly linked to obesity, diabetes, and poor diet.
3. Viral hepatitis (A, B, or C) – Infectious inflammation of the liver.
4. Medication or supplements – Overuse of paracetamol, herbal supplements, or steroids.
5. Autoimmune disorders – When the immune system attacks liver cells.
6. Muscle injury or strenuous exercise – Temporarily increases SGOT levels.

What Should You Do If Your Levels Are High?

1. Repeat the test after 2–3 weeks — sometimes mild elevations resolve naturally.
2. Avoid alcohol completely for at least one month.
3. Eat a liver-friendly diet:
   • Include green leafy vegetables, turmeric, garlic, and beetroot.
   • Avoid fried, processed, and high-sugar foods.
4. Hydrate adequately — drink 2.5–3 liters of water daily.
5. Exercise regularly — 30 minutes of moderate activity helps reduce fat accumulation in the liver.
6. Consult a physician for further testing — ultrasound or viral screening if levels remain high.

Can You Reverse Elevated SGOT and SGPT?

Yes — in many cases, lifestyle changes and proper medical care can normalize enzyme levels within weeks.
The liver has a remarkable ability to heal itself if given the right environment — through balanced nutrition, rest, and toxin avoidance.

When to Worry

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Abdominal swelling or pain
• Persistent fatigue, nausea, or loss of appetite
• Dark urine or pale stool

These could indicate significant liver damage requiring urgent care.

In Summary

Your liver silently supports hundreds of body functions every minute — from detoxifying your system to balancing metabolism.
If your SGOT or SGPT levels are high, don’t panic. Take it as a warning bell, not a verdict.
A mindful diet, regular movement, and periodic testing can ensure your liver stays healthy — and so do you.

References :
1. Evaluation of Elevated Liver Enzymes
2. Abnormal liver enzymes: A review for clinicians
3.Liver Function Tests