What foods should patients with high aspartate aminotransferase (AST) avoid?
Apr 10, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Jin Zhongkui
Introduction
Individuals with elevated aspartate aminotransferase (AST) should avoid eating chili peppers, as these foods are highly irritating and may inhibit liver cell repair after entering the body, thereby worsening disease control. Fatty meats should also be avoided because their high fat content increases the liver's workload, which is unfavorable for reducing AST levels. Additionally, salted fish and other preserved foods should not be consumed, as they contain large amounts of salt that can exacerbate liver damage.
Generally, patients with elevated aspartate aminotransferase (AST) should avoid spicy and irritating foods, greasy foods, and preserved foods. Specific explanations are as follows:
1. Spicy and irritating foods
Foods such as chili peppers, raw garlic, and alcohol contain strong irritants. After entering the body, they may inhibit liver cell regeneration and repair, which is unfavorable for controlling the condition.
2. Greasy foods
Foods such as fatty meat, pork lard, and French fries are high in fat. Once consumed, they increase the metabolic burden on the liver and may lead to elevated blood lipids, making it harder to reduce AST levels.
3. Preserved foods
Foods such as salted fish, cured duck, and bacon contain large amounts of salt. The nitrites in these foods can be converted into nitrosamines under the action of protein decomposition, potentially worsening liver damage.
In addition, high-sugar foods should also be avoided. Besides paying attention to diet, patients with elevated AST should undergo relevant medical examinations at a hospital and follow a doctor's instructions for targeted treatment.
