COMPENDIUM ON FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE - Flipbook - Page 240
Note: Anyone with a significantly increased total ALP level should
have an ALPICO enzyme study performed.
Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT)
GGT is a key enzyme involved in the transport and metabolism of
glutathione, the liver’s main antioxidant. Elevated GGT can
indicate glutathione depletion and increased oxidative stress,
often due to toxic burden or chronic exposure. It’s one of the
earliest markers to rise in liver or bile duct dysfunction and helps
assess the liver’s antioxidant capacity.
In the presence of metals like iron and copper, high GGT can
contribute to oxidative stress by promoting the release of free iron,
leading to further cellular damage. This is especially concerning
when a parasitic infection is suspected, as parasites feed on iron,
potentially worsening both the infection and oxidative burden.
For this reason, assessing GGT alongside an iron panel is helpful
when evaluating toxic load, oxidative stress, or metabolic risk.
Elevated GGT is also associated with a higher risk of diabetes,
particularly in obese individuals.
Range
Units
Conventional
1.0 - 70 IU/L
Optimal / Functional
0 - 30 IU/L
Alarm
> 90 IU/L
When to run this test:
● To identify gallbladder, common bile duct, or pancreatic
issues
● To monitor alcoholism
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