What exactly is Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST)?

Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) is an enzyme, a type of protein found inside cells throughout your body. It plays a role in metabolism, helping to process amino acids. AST is particularly abundant in organs like the liver, heart, and muscles. When cells in these organs are damaged, they release AST into the bloodstream, which is why an elevated Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) 118 U/L can be a marker for cellular injury.

What might cause an Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) 118 U/L level?

An Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) 118 U/L level suggests that cells containing this enzyme may have experienced some form of stress or damage. Common factors contributing to this include certain medical conditions affecting the liver or muscles, some medications, and even intense physical activity. It's important to discuss this result with a healthcare professional to explore potential causes relevant to your individual health.

What should I do if my Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) is 118 U/L?

If your Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) is 118 U/L, the most important step is to consult with your healthcare provider. This result needs to be interpreted in the context of your complete medical history, other lab tests, and any symptoms you might be experiencing. Your doctor can help determine the potential cause of this elevation and recommend any necessary follow-up tests or lifestyle adjustments. Do not attempt to self-diagnose or self-treat based on this single result.

Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) 118 U/L: Is That High?

Name: Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) 118 U/L — Is It High? What to Do
Creator: Ernestas K.
Published: 2026-03-22

Bottom line: Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) 118 U/L — see your doctor to discuss this result.

Written by

Ernestas K.

Clinical research writer specializing in human health, biology, and preventive medicine.

Reviewed against ALF, NIH, Mayo Clinic, AGA guidelines · Last reviewed March 22, 2026

YOUR RESULT

118 U/L

Elevated

In This Article

Is Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) 118 U/L Low, Normal, or High?
Hidden Risk of Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) 118 U/L
What Does Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) 118 U/L Mean?
Lifestyle Changes for Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) 118
Diet Changes for Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) 118
Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) 118 in Men, Women, Elderly, and Kids
Medicine Effects on Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) 118
When to Retest Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) 118 U/L
Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) 118 FAQ
When to See a Doctor About Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) 118

Is Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) 118 U/L Low, Normal, or High?

Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) 118 U/L might be considered higher than typical for many individuals. When your body produces an AST level of 118 U/L, it suggests that this marker falls outside the common reference range found in many lab reports. This particular value is generally viewed as an elevated reading, indicating it is not within what is usually considered a normal level. Exploring what this elevation means can offer valuable insights into your overall well-being and cellular health.

Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) Range	Values
Very Low	Below 5 U/L
Normal	5 - 40 U/L
Mildly Elevated	41 - 80 U/L
Elevated	81 - 200 U/L
Very High	201+ U/L

Your AST 118 means different things depending on your other markers

AST + ALT

The AST/ALT ratio above 2:1 suggests alcoholic liver disease. Near 1:1 points to non-alcoholic fatty liver. Which is yours?

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AST + ALP

AST and ALP together distinguish between liver cell damage and cholestatic disease, which have completely different treatments.

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AST + Creatine Kinase

If your CK is also high, your elevated AST might be from muscle damage, not liver damage at all.

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Hidden Risk of Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) 118 U/L

Understanding a reading like Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) 118 U/L is often the first step in uncovering potential underlying health considerations. This enzyme, found in various body tissues, typically appears in higher amounts in your bloodstream when cells are damaged. Therefore, an elevated Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) 118 U/L can sometimes hint at issues that might not be immediately obvious, prompting a deeper look into certain areas of your health. It serves as a signal, encouraging further conversations with a healthcare professional to understand the full picture and to address any concerns proactively.

What Does a Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) Level of 118 U/L Mean?

When we talk about Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) 118 U/L, we are referring to the measurement of a specific enzyme within your body. Enzymes are proteins that help speed up chemical reactions, crucial for many bodily functions. AST is particularly abundant in the liver, heart muscle, skeletal muscles, kidneys, brain, and red blood cells. Normally, these enzymes reside primarily within cells. When cells are damaged, they release their contents, including AST, into the bloodstream. Therefore, an Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) 118 U/L reading often suggests that some cells have been injured, releasing this enzyme into circulation. This doesn't pinpoint the exact location of the damage but indicates that something might be causing cellular stress or injury in one of the areas where AST is found. It acts as a general health marker, guiding healthcare providers in their assessment of your internal well-being and potential areas needing attention. Interpreting an Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) 118 U/L result requires considering your overall health, other lab results, and any symptoms you might be experiencing.

Reading about one marker can be misleading.

Your blood test has multiple results that affect each other. AST 118 alone doesn't tell you the full picture. Your other markers do.

Check all my markers

or upload your full lab report

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Lifestyle Changes for Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) 118 U/L

Making certain lifestyle adjustments can play a supportive role in overall health, which indirectly might influence enzyme levels like Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) 118 U/L. Focusing on practices that promote general well-being can help maintain cellular integrity and function throughout the body. Regular physical activity, for instance, in moderation, supports muscle health and can enhance circulation, contributing to better organ function. However, very intense or new strenuous exercise can temporarily elevate AST levels due to muscle breakdown, so balance is key. Adequate sleep is another cornerstone of health, allowing the body to repair and rejuvenate cells. Chronic sleep deprivation can put stress on various systems, potentially impacting enzyme readings. Managing stress through techniques like mindfulness, meditation, or spending time in nature can also have a positive ripple effect on physical health. High stress levels can influence inflammatory processes in the body, which might subtly affect organ health over time. Reducing exposure to environmental toxins and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption are crucial, as these factors are known to directly impact liver health, a primary source of Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST). Embracing these thoughtful lifestyle choices contributes to a foundation of health, which is always beneficial, regardless of specific lab numbers. It's about nurturing your body's resilience and supporting its natural balance in the long term.