10 Best Foods to Support Your Alkaline Phosphatase Levels

Liver diseases like cirrhosis, acute liver failure, and liver cancer account for over 3 million deaths globally per year. In India, too, liver disease is spreading like an epidemic, and one in five adults is getting affected. 

Do you know why this is so?

One of the major causes of liver disease viruses is alcohol use and obesity. If you notice the symptoms of itchy skin, dark urine, pale stool, constant tiredness, nausea or vomiting, or loss of appetite, consult your doctor. Your doctor might recommend the liver function test to assess the symptoms.

The test results cover various parameters; your doctor will predict your condition. One such parameter is called alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels. This essential enzyme is key to bone health, digestion, and removal of waste. 

But don't worry; you're not stuck relying solely on medications. There are many ways you can regulate your ALP levels. Here are some of the best food options that can help support healthy enzyme levels. 

You can choose from a variety of options, including leafy green to fatty fish; this blog will help you know how to nourish your body and support your ALP for optimal health. So, get ready to experience the vibrant energy of balanced enzyme function!

10 Best food options to Manage your ALP Levels

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is a vital enzyme in our bones, liver, kidneys, intestines, and placenta. 

The normal range of alkaline phosphatase is 20 to 140U/L. However, diet plays an important role in maintaining liver health. There are a variety of food options available that aid in improving your liver enzymes, protecting fat building, and decreasing inflammation and oxidative stress. As you might know, the liver processes proteins, cholesterol, and bile and stores vitamins, minerals, and carbohydrates. Here are some of the best foods that can contribute to healthy ALP levels, along with any health benefits:

• Leafy green vegetables

Did you know that spinach and other green leafy veggies can aid in fighting fatty liver disease?

Studies show that spinach lowered the risk of NAFLD, possibly due to the nitrate and distinct polyphenols in the leafy green.

Leafy green vegetables like kale, spinach, collard greens, and Swiss chard are rich in essential nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, magnesium, and folate. They are also a good source of zinc, which plays a role in ALP production. 

How does it work?

Take a balanced diet that contains leafy greens.

• Cruciferous Vegetables

Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They're also a good source of sulforaphane and support healthy liver function, which can indirectly influence ALP levels.

• Coffee

Are you a coffee lover?

Did you know coffee is one of the best beverages promoting liver health? 

Really?

Yes, many studies show that drinking coffee protects you from liver diseases, liver damage, permanent liver damage, and chronic liver disease.

Research has shown that people who drink 3 cups of coffee daily have a low risk of chronic liver disease.

How does it work?

Coffee is rich in the antioxidant glutathione. These antioxidants neutralize harmful free radicals and reduce the damage to liver cells.

• Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes are acidic and are excellent sources of vitamin C. Surprisingly, they are the best source of alkaline foods and powerful antioxidants that support overall health. 

In addition, Vitamin C is also involved in collagen production and promotes healthy ALP levels. Lemons, sweet lime, and oranges work as detoxifying agents that relieve heartburn and acidity.

How does it work?

Vitamin C supports collagen production, which is important for bone health and may indirectly influence ALP levels.

• Nuts

Nuts contain healthy fats and are rich in antioxidants and vitamin E. Nuts like cashews, Brazil nuts, and pine nuts are good sources of zinc. Also, nuts like almonds, walnuts, and pistachios are rich in healthy fats. These fats aid in nutrient absorption and also help to utilize all the building blocks it needs for enzyme production, including ALP. Also, nuts reduce the risk of NAFLD. 

• Fatty Fish

Fatty fish contain omega-3 fatty acids and have various health benefits. Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of heart disease. Salmon, tuna, sardines, and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and contribute to regulating ALP levels. 

• Olive oil

Olive oil is a healthy fat because of its many health benefits. It has a positive impact on heart and metabolic health. A diet rich in olive oil reduces the risk of fatty liver in older adults.

How does it work?

Fat accumulation is the first stage of liver disease. Take olive oil to improve liver health and promote overall health.

• Whole Grains for Fiber and More

Whole grains like oats, brown rice, quinoa, and whole-wheat bread contain fiber, vitamins, minerals, and complex carbohydrates. Fiber helps regulate digestion and nutrient absorption, indirectly influencing overall health and potentially ALP levels.

How does it work?

Maintaining a healthy digestive system is crucial for overall well-being, which can indirectly contribute to healthy ALP levels.

• Legumes for Plant-Based Protein

Pulses and legumes are good plant-based protein sources and are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. 

To support your ALP levels, take a diet rich in beans, lentils, and chickpeas. They're also a good source of zinc, which, as mentioned earlier, plays a role in ALP production.

How does it work?

Legumes provide zinc, a cofactor for ALP, and contribute to a healthy diet, which can indirectly influence ALP levels.

• Beetroot Juice

Studies have shown that beetroot is a good source of nitrates and antioxidants called betalains. This property helps to reduce the oxidative damage and inflammation of the liver. In addition, this improves the blood flow to the liver and supports its overall function and ALP levels. 

How does it work?

Take freshly made beetroot juice to improve your liver health. Just ensure it is low in added sugars and preservatives. 

Takeaway

Maintaining healthy alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels is crucial for optimal liver health. 

You are maintaining a healthy weight, managing existing health conditions, and taking prescribed medications. In addition, the above are some of the best food options that will improve your alkaline phosphatase levels. However, don't forget to keep yourself hydrated. It is essential to maintain body functioning, including digestion, nutrient absorption, and waste removal. In addition, if you feel any symptoms related to abnormal liver function, consult your doctor and take routine LFT and ALP tests to determine the status of your health condition. Make mindful choices, prioritize a balanced diet, and consult your doctor for personalized advice.!