Liver
AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase)
Unit: U/LID: M022
What This Test Measures
Liver and muscle enzyme; less specific than ALT
Conventional vs. Functional Optimal Range
Conventional "Normal"
10-40 U/LYour doctor says you're "fine" anywhere in this range
Functional Optimal
10-26 U/LThis is where you actually feel great
The gap between these ranges is why you feel terrible with "normal" labs. Conventional medicine waits for disease. Functional medicine optimizes for health.
Gabriel's Take
AST is found in liver and muscle. Less liver-specific than ALT. AST/ALT ratio >2 suggests alcoholic liver disease. AST/ALT <1 suggests NAFLD. Gabriel's optimal band is 10-26. Elevated together = liver inflammation.
When This Test Is High
Liver disease, muscle damage, hemolysis
When This Test Is Low
Usually not clinically significant
Related Conditions
Hepatitis, cirrhosis, muscle injury
Recommended Follow-Up
Check ALT, GGT; calculate AST/ALT ratio; if >2 with elevated enzymes, consider alcohol-related liver disease