Gamma-GT are enzymes involved in the body’s chemical reactions. They are mainly found in the liver’s cell membranes, as indicated by this study.
They help transfer amino acids between cells and detoxify the body. They play an essential role in the antioxidant defense mechanisms, notably in glutathione recycling.
They are markers of liver function: they make it possible to notice if there is a problem with the liver. When too much is found in the bloodstream, it’s a warning sign. Measured by a blood test, a normal gamma-GT level, in international units of activity per liter, is considered to be between:
- 15 and 45 UI/L for men
- 10 and 35 UI/L for women
If your level is too high and there are no apparent pathological causes, I recommend putting these various tips and habits in place to reduce these liver enzymes as quickly as possible.
Also read | A pharmacist’s advice on choosing a dietary supplement for the liver
1. Limit your alcohol consumption
Occasional excessive alcohol consumption does not cause an increase in GGT levels. However, if it becomes chronic, your liver could be affected.
Are you in this situation ? Limit your alcohol consumption, surround yourself with people who drink in moderation, avoid party venues, and find activities that will keep you from thinking about alcohol.
A healthcare professional can also support you to help you reduce your daily alcohol intake.
2. Adopt a balanced diet
A poor diet high in fats and refined sugars contributes to the poor liver health as well as an increased risk of obesity. This is notably suggested by this study.
To avoid excess weight and a decline in your liver function, make sure to maintain a balanced diet. I recommend including unprocessed foods, plenty of vegetables, poultry and eggs on your weekly menu.
Lemon juice, thanks to its diuretic properties, is also a good ally for your liver.
As for sweets, ultra-processed foods, cured meats and red meat: they should be eaten in moderation (no need to ban them altogether).
3. Incorporate choleretic and cholagogue plants into your routine
A choleretic product promotes bile production while a cholegogue helps with its elimination. Moreover, a good biliary function promotes waste elimination and fat absorption, thereby supporting liver function.
The black radish root or dandelion root extract would help maintain good biliary function. The same is true of artichoke, as shown by this study.
So don’t hesitate to add them to your routine, as an infusion or as a dietary supplement, for example.
4. Start exercising
Because obesity is one of the causes that can damage your liver, I recommend regular physical activity.
According to this study, exercising would reduce liver fat and contribute to good liver health. So don’t miss out: it’s good for your health and your mood.
Choose an activity you enjoy, for more consistency: running, swimming, strength training or team sports — there’s something for everyone.
5. Avoid self-medication
Some medications can cause an increase in gamma-GT and negatively impact your biliary function. They can even, in rare cases, cause drug-induced cirrhosis.
If your gamma-GT level is too high, avoid self-medication and contact a healthcare professional. They can review your case with you, find the cause of this increase in liver enzymes, and, if necessary, adjust your medication.
How long does it take to lower gamma-GT levels?
It is difficult to give an exact answer to this question. The decrease in your gamma-GT levels depends on the cause of their increase, your physical activity, weight, diet and alcohol consumption, and other individual factors.
For alcohol-related increases, it would take about 25 days after the last drink to see your gamma-GT level decrease by half.
