A Closer Look at What Supplements Can Lower AST Levels

October 13, 2025 •

3 min read

According to one study, herbal dietary supplements are responsible for 20% of liver injuries in the United States, highlighting the critical importance of caution when exploring what supplements can lower AST levels. While some natural compounds show promise in supporting liver health, others can be harmful, and it is vital to consult a healthcare professional before beginning any new regimen.

Quick Summary

Several dietary supplements, including milk thistle, turmeric, and omega-3s, have shown potential in reducing elevated aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels, often alongside lifestyle changes. Research indicates their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may support liver function and lower liver enzyme markers. Caution is necessary, as risks exist.

Key Points

Milk Thistle (Silymarin): A well-researched herb, milk thistle may help protect and regenerate liver cells, reducing elevated AST and improving liver function in those with liver disease.
Turmeric (Curcumin): The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of curcumin show potential for lowering liver enzyme markers like AST, particularly in people with fatty liver disease.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish oil, these anti-inflammatory fats can reduce liver fat accumulation and support overall liver health.
Lifestyle Changes are Crucial: The most effective ways to lower AST include limiting alcohol consumption, managing weight through diet and exercise, and consuming coffee or green tea.
Consult a Doctor Before Use: Supplements are not FDA-regulated like drugs and some can be harmful, so always discuss any new supplement regimen with a healthcare provider, especially if you have an existing liver condition.
High-Dose Vitamins Can Be Harmful: Certain vitamins, particularly fat-soluble ones like A and E, can be toxic to the liver in high doses and should be used with caution.
Focus on Underlying Causes: Supplements should complement, not replace, addressing the root cause of elevated AST, such as obesity, excessive alcohol use, or a medication's side effects.

Understanding AST and Its Role in Liver Health

Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), also known as SGOT, is an enzyme primarily found in the liver, heart, and muscles. When cells in these organs are damaged, they release AST into the bloodstream, causing levels to rise. While elevated AST can indicate a variety of issues, it is often used as a marker for liver damage or disease. Before considering supplements, it is crucial to understand that treating the underlying cause, and not just the symptom, is the primary goal. Lifestyle changes, such as reducing alcohol intake, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating a balanced diet, are fundamental to addressing elevated AST.

The Need for Caution with Liver Supplements

Dietary supplements are not regulated by the FDA with the same stringency as prescription medications. This means products may not contain the advertised ingredients or dosages, and some herbal supplements carry a risk of causing liver damage. Always seek guidance from a doctor before starting any supplement, especially if you have pre-existing liver disease.

Potentially Beneficial Supplements for Lowering AST Levels

Certain supplements have been studied for their potential to support liver health and manage elevated AST. While research is ongoing and results can be mixed, some show more promise than others.

Milk Thistle (Silymarin)

Milk thistle is a well-known herbal remedy often used for liver, kidney, and gallbladder issues. Its active compound, silymarin, is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. Studies suggest it may protect and regenerate liver cells and could improve liver enzymes in some individuals with liver conditions, though research on AST specifically is mixed.

Turmeric (Curcumin)

Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Research suggests high doses may help reduce elevated liver enzymes, including AST, particularly in individuals with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3s, found in fatty fish, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. They may help reduce fat accumulation in the liver, which is beneficial for fatty liver disease, and research supports their potential to improve liver fat and triglyceride levels in those with NAFLD.

Choline

This essential nutrient is important for transporting fat away from the liver. Adequate choline intake may help prevent fat buildup in the liver and reduce the risk of NAFLD.

N-acetylcysteine (NAC)

NAC is an antioxidant often used as an antidote for acetaminophen overdose. It helps increase glutathione levels, protecting liver cells. While its role in overdose is established, further research is needed on its effectiveness as a general liver supplement.

Comparing Popular Liver-Supporting Supplements


Supplement	Active Compound	Key Benefit	Evidence Level	Important Considerations
Milk Thistle	Silymarin	Protects and regenerates liver cells.	Mixed, but promising for NAFLD and cirrhosis.	Generally safe, but can cause mild side effects like upset stomach.
Turmeric	Curcumin	Reduces inflammation and oxidative stress.	Shows potential in reducing elevated liver enzymes, especially with NAFLD.	High doses can cause stomach upset and interact with blood-thinners.
Omega-3s	Fatty Acids	Reduces fat accumulation and inflammation.	Strong evidence for improving liver fat in NAFLD.	Must be balanced with omega-6 intake.
Choline	Choline	Aids in fat transport from the liver.	Supports fat metabolism and reduces risk of NAFLD.	Best obtained through diet, as supplement evidence is less clear.
NAC	N-acetylcysteine	Boosts glutathione and protects cells.	Effective for acetaminophen overdose, but everyday use for liver health needs more study.	Can cause nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Other Factors Influencing AST Levels

Beyond supplements, several lifestyle factors can influence AST levels and overall liver health. Limiting alcohol, managing weight, and regular exercise are crucial. Moderate coffee and green tea consumption may also be beneficial. It's also important to be aware of medications and high doses of certain vitamins that can be liver-toxic.

Conclusion: A Holistic Approach is Best

While certain supplements, like milk thistle and turmeric, may offer support for liver health and AST levels, they should not replace addressing the root cause of elevated enzymes. A comprehensive approach involving lifestyle modifications such as reducing alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, and a balanced diet is most effective. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your individual health needs. For information on drug-induced liver injury, the NIDDK's LiverTox resource is available.

Frequently Asked Questions

AST stands for aspartate aminotransferase, an enzyme primarily found in the liver, heart, and muscles. Elevated AST levels usually indicate that there has been damage to one of these organs, causing the enzyme to leak into the bloodstream.

Supplements are not regulated by the FDA like prescription drugs, and some have been shown to cause liver injury. While some supplements show potential for liver support, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional before taking any, especially if you have a pre-existing liver condition.

Milk thistle's active component, silymarin, acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. It is thought to protect liver cells from toxins, assist in their regeneration, and may help lower liver enzyme levels in people with conditions like NAFLD.

Research has shown that curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce liver damage markers like AST and ALT, particularly in individuals with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

Yes, risks exist, particularly due to the lack of regulation for supplements. High doses of some supplements, like turmeric or vitamin E, can cause side effects and interfere with medications. Always verify safety with a doctor.

Effective lifestyle changes include limiting or stopping excessive alcohol intake, maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise, and managing related conditions like diabetes. Drinking coffee or green tea in moderation has also been linked to liver health benefits.

Omega-3s can reduce inflammation and the accumulation of fat in the liver. This is particularly beneficial for people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), where excess fat can lead to elevated AST levels.