Hypothyroidism, nutritional deficiencies and insulin resistance are causes of low levels of alkaline phosphatase in the blood. The only way to diagnose it is through a laboratory test.
last update: December 4, 2024
Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme present in the body that participates in various metabolic processes.Found in almost all fabricsBut it is more concentrated in the liver, bones, placenta and intestine.
To measure it you need to do a blood test
Blood alkaline phosphatase ranges between 20 and 140 international units per liter (IU/L) in adults.. Having it below 20 means the levels are low. However, this normal range depends on the laboratory performing the test, so some institutes consider normal between 44 and 147 IU/L, while others propose between 30 and 120 IU/L.
There are no specific symptoms of low-grade atrial fibrillation. The only way to diagnose it is with a blood test, and below, we explain the most common causes of this condition.
1. Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism may be one of the causes of low alkaline phosphatase levels. This disease is characterized by a decrease in the production of thyroid hormones.which influences bone metabolism and liver function. The slower metabolism in these organs causes reduction of the enzyme.
Some symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, weight gain, sensitivity to cold, and dry skin. If the diagnosis is confirmed, treatment consists of the management of levothyroxine, a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone T4. Once hormone levels have normalized, correct FA levels are restored.
2. Nutrient deficiency
Among the nutrients whose deficiency is associated with a decrease in the enzyme are the following:
- Zinc: its lack affects several enzymes and not just alkaline phosphatase.
- Vitamin C: crucial for bone health and collagen metabolism.
- Magnesium: It is indeed a mineral that participates in various metabolic processes.
- Vitamin B6: involved in amino acid metabolism and neurotransmitter production.
- Folic acid: essential for DNA synthesis and cell division, which are very active processes in the liver and bones.
If you are experiencing specific deficiencies in any of these nutrients, you may consider taking vitamin supplements, always under medical supervision. Furthermore, it will be useful to follow a complementary diet to strengthen the missing micronutrients:
3. Pernicious anemia
Pernicious anemia is a condition caused by the body’s inability to absorb enough vitamin B12.Without adequate amounts of nutrients, red blood cell production is impaired. Furthermore,the same vitamin plays a crucial role in bone metabolismwhich ends up changing the concentration of alkaline phosphatase in the blood.
The treatment of pernicious anemia consists of the administration of intramuscular injections of vitamin B12. Injectables are preferred over the oral form, as intestinal absorption is impaired in these patients.
4. Hepatic steatosis
Also called fatty liver, it consists of the excessive accumulation of fat in the liver cells. This disease has no symptoms in the early stages, but can progress to cirrhosis.
Fat accumulation in the liver affects liver function. Alkaline phosphatase levels may be low, due to the difficulty the organ has in completing its metabolism. in contrast, in advanced stages of steatosis, it is more common to observe increases in enzymes.
Treatment involves a balanced, low-calorie diet that limits the consumption of saturated fats and simple sugars. Moderate physical activity is also recommended. Even though there are no drugs for treatment, therapies are being studied.
5.Crohn’s disease
Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Even though it is indeed typically associated with elevated FA levels during episodes of inflammation, there are some circumstances where the opposite is true. For example, when complications appear due to liver damage.
patients may also experience malnutrition and absorption problems.due to inflammation. This contributes to the nutritional deficiencies we’ve talked about before.
The treatment is complex. Anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aminosalicylates, are often combined with immunomodulators and biologic therapies.
6.Insulin resistance
Insulin resistance is a condition in which the body’s cells do not respond adequately to insulin. The direct result is a high blood sugar level.
Often,This situation is accompanied by a state of chronic inflammation throughout the body..Therefore, liver involvement and, in some patients, fatty liver or hepatic steatosis usually occurs. This helps to lower alkaline phosphatase.
Hypophosphatasia or HPP is a rare metabolic diseasecharacterized by a deficiency of alkaline phosphatase activity.It’s a genetic problem, caused by mutations in the gene called ALPL.
People with HPP suffer from:
- Repetitive fractures.
- Skeletal deformities.
- Premature tooth loss and severe tooth decay.
- Respiratory complications due to thoracic malformations.
The treatment is very complex. Enzyme replacement therapy is used with a substance that replaces the missing activity of alkaline phosphatase.
Combined hormonal contraceptives may affect alkaline phosphatase levels. This is because they can alter metabolism in the liver.
The effect is more pronounced in women who already have low levels of the enzyme due to othre conditions. Also in those taking drugs associated with low atrial fibrillation, such as amoxicillin, clindamycin, tricyclic antidepressants and metformin.
In cases where contraceptives detect very low levels of alkaline phosphatase, you may need to change the type of method you use. It will also be necessary to consider alternatives that have less hormone content or only progestins.
CML is a type of cancer that affects hematopoietic stem cells in the bone marrow. It causes abnormal production of white blood cellswhich, secondarily, modifies the concentrations of alkaline phosphatase.
This decrease in FA in patients with chronic myelogenous leukemia is an critically important indicator of general condition and response to treatment. Doctors analyze this value to know whether there is a good or bad prognosis for the disease.
In any case, you can practice habits that rebalance the liver’s metabolism, such as the following:
- Eat protein foods, such as lean meats, fish, eggs, legumes and dairy products.
- Give priority to fruit and vegetables, rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Do regular exercise, both aerobic and strength.
- Stay hydrated during the day.
The use of dietary supplements should only be reserved for medically diagnosed deficiency. In this case, a healthcare professional will prescribe the appropriate one for your situation.
Who should know about alkaline phosphatase?
The blood test to measure alkaline phosphatase is not a routine test. Doctors request it when there is a strong suspicion of a metabolic, hormonal, bone or liver problem.
It is important to remember that there are no specific symptoms of low-grade atrial fibrillation. Therefore, it will only be investigated in some patients and in the context of a health problem that justifies it.
Even though not a disease itself, its deficiency is an indicator of poor prognosis for chronic myelogenous leukemia, a sign of incipient hepatic steatosis and a screening element for some types of cancer. Thus, Only a specialist can interpret the results and propose an appropriate approach.
How does a balanced diet impact the health of patients with low alkaline phosphatase levels?
Py is one of the approaches being explored for managing hypophosphatasia (HPP), but it is indeed still an evolving field. Patients often require multidisciplinary care, including orthopedic interventions for fractures and dental care to address severe tooth decay.
Conclusion
Understanding the various conditions that can lead to low alkaline phosphatase levels is crucial, as is recognizing the importance of certain nutrients like zinc, magnesium, and vitamins B6 and B12 for maintaining overall health. If you suspect any deficiencies or related health issues, consulting a healthcare professional is essential for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.
Additionally, a balanced diet rich in the mentioned nutrients can contribute to better health outcomes and help prevent conditions like pernicious anemia, hepatic steatosis, Crohn’s disease, insulin resistance, and hypophosphatasia. Regular monitoring and lifestyle adjustments may also play critically important roles in managing these health issues.
