What AST tells you
Liver enzyme and protein markers that reflect aspects of liver activity. They are interpreted together, and in context, by a clinician.
Which Honed panels include AST
AST is measured in the Essential Panel and Performance Panel. Every sample is collected at a pathology collection centre and processed at a NATA-accredited laboratory against RCPA reference ranges, with personalised plain-English commentary in your secure online report.
Why AST matters
Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) is an enzyme found in liver, muscle, heart, and red blood cells. It is used clinically as a marker of hepatic (liver) injury or inflammation, but is also elevated by muscle damage, hemolysis, or cardiac injury. In athletes, AST can be elevated after intense training due to muscle breakdown (rhabdomyolysis risk with extreme exertion). AST is best interpreted alongside ALT and other liver markers.
The range explained
Low levels
Low AST is not clinically significant.
Normal range
Reference range: 10–35 U/L. This represents normal liver and muscle enzyme levels.
High levels
Elevated AST (above 35 U/L) can indicate liver injury, muscle damage, or hemolysis. In athletes, mild elevation post-training is normal; sustained elevation warrants evaluation.
What affects AST
- Training: Intense training acutely elevates AST due to muscle breakdown. This normalizes within 48–72 hours with recovery.
- Nutrition: Adequate protein and micronutrients support muscle health. Alcohol elevates AST.
- Sleep: Sleep supports muscle recovery and hepatic function.
- Stress: Chronic stress can affect liver function and AST levels.
When to retest
Every 12 weeks for athletes; every 12 months for general health. Interpret post-training AST elevation in context of training intensity.
Why athletes care
Athletes expect mild AST elevation after intense training as part of the acute phase response; sustained elevation indicates insufficient recovery or potential muscle damage.
Related liver markers
FAQ
What does the AST blood test measure?
Aspartate aminotransferase, an enzyme found in liver and muscle. The relationship between AST and ALT is one thing clinicians consider when interpreting results.
Which Honed Health panels include AST?
AST is included in the Essential and Performance panels.
What unit is AST measured in?
AST is reported in U/L, measured at NATA-accredited laboratories against RCPA reference ranges, with personalised plain-English commentary in your secure report.