Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT)

Why is GGT important for your Healthspan?

‍GGT levels are an indicator of liver health and bile duct function, which are important for maintaining Healthspan. Persistently elevated GGT can signal ongoing liver stress, inflammation, or oxidative imbalance, even sometimes correlating with aspects of metabolic syndrome. Unaddressed issues affecting the liver can impact its vital roles in detoxification, nutrient processing, and overall metabolic regulation, potentially affecting long-term vitality and disease risk. Monitoring GGT provides insights into liver well-being and guides strategies to support this essential organ.

‍What is GGT?

Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) is an enzyme widely distributed throughout the body but is present in highest concentrations in the liver, bile ducts, and kidneys. Its main function involves the transfer of amino acids across cell membranes and is also crucial for the synthesis and breakdown of glutathione, one of the body's primary antioxidants. When liver cells or bile ducts are damaged or stressed, GGT can leak into the bloodstream, causing its levels to rise. This enzyme is particularly sensitive to conditions affecting the bile ducts, such as blockages, and is also known to be elevated by alcohol consumption and certain medications. Therefore, GGT is often measured alongside other liver enzymes like ALT and AST to help identify the specific nature of any liver-related concerns.

‍How do we take action?

If GGT levels are found to be elevated, one should consult with a healthcare provider to investigate the underlying cause. Common reasons include alcohol consumption, certain medications, or various liver and bile duct conditions. Strategies often involve reducing alcohol intake, reviewing medications with a doctor, and adopting a balanced diet and regular exercise to support overall liver health and metabolic function. Further diagnostic tests may be needed to pinpoint specific liver or bile duct issues. Regular monitoring of GGT can help track the effectiveness of interventions and support liver health for a long Healthspan.

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‍Additional Sources

1. Koenig, G., & Seneff, S. (2015). Gamma-Glutamyltransferase: A Predictive Biomarker of Cellular Antioxidant Inadequacy and Disease Risk. Disease markers, 2015, 818570. https://doi.org/10.1155/2015/818570

2. Bulusu, S., & Sharma, M. (2016). What does serum γ-glutamyltransferase tell us as a cardiometabolic risk marker?. Annals of clinical biochemistry, 53(Pt 3), 312–332. https://doi.org/10.1177/0004563215597010

3. Koenig, G., & Seneff, S. (2015). Gamma-Glutamyltransferase: A Predictive Biomarker of Cellular Antioxidant Inadequacy and Disease Risk. Disease markers, 2015, 818570. https://doi.org/10.1155/2015/818570

4. Targher G. (2010). Elevated serum gamma-glutamyltransferase activity is associated with increased risk of mortality, incident type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular events, chronic kidney disease and cancer - a narrative review. Clinical chemistry and laboratory medicine, 48(2), 147–157. https://doi.org/10.1515/CCLM.2010.031

5. Turgut, O., Yilmaz, A., Yalta, K., Karadas, F., & Birhan Yilmaz, M. (2006). gamma-Glutamyltransferase is a promising biomarker for cardiovascular risk. Medical hypotheses, 67(5), 1060–1064. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mehy.2006.04.010

6. Park, W. Y., Koh, E. S., Kim, S. H., Kim, Y. O., Jin, D. C., Song, H. C., Choi, E. J., Kim, Y. L., Kim, Y. S., Kang, S. W., Kim, N. H., Yang, C. W., & Kim, Y. K. (2015). Serum Gamma-Glutamyltransferase Levels Predict Clinical Outcomes in Hemodialysis Patients. PloS one, 10(9), e0138159. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0138159

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