Elevated Liver Panel

[portomar1970]

I am struggling with health anxiety right now. My ALT came back at 71, and while the rest of my labs are mostly normal (with liver values on the higher end of normal), I can’t stop worrying about cancer. I have been on a very strict low-carb, low-fat diet for nearly two years, usually under 1,000 calories, eating mostly yogurt, toast with butter, boiled egg whites, and spinach, with occasional cheat days like pizza (mostly 1 or 2 of the pizza slice crusts only.)My liver tests were completely normal 10 months ago, which makes this change feel scary. I’m trying to understand whether this could realistically be diet-related or if I should be concerned about something more serious. Thanks for any experiences or insights.

[Pearly queen]

I have had elevated liver function before, a few times actually. It's not uncommon. I imagine your doctor will repeat the test in a few months.
Have you spoken to them?
It does sound like you are not eating nearly enough but whether that would affect your liver function, I don't know. Try to increase you food intake a little and vary it more. Your might need more protein and fibre. I really wouldn't worry too much about your blood test. It will likely resolve on its own.

[nomorepanic]

Your diet doesn't sound great to be honest. Where's all the fruit and veg?

Liver function varies a lot from one week to another. They will repeat it and take it from there I guess.

I don't think a raised ALT indicates cancer though.

[Button1]

That’s only mild elevation and has a lot of benign explanations. It’s not used as a direct indicator of cancer. If your other readings were normal I’d imagine they’ll retest later. I’d very much look at your diet, that will definitely affect your ALT X