The alkaline phosphatase is a protein with enzymatic properties. It plays a fundamental role in metabolism since it is responsible for “phosphorylation,” an essential part of the metabolism of proteins, amino acids, so-called nucleotides, and alkaloids. It is found concentrated and produced basically in the bile ducts, bones, and liver, and its alteration can be quickly evidenced by utilizing a simple measurement of blood levels.
Two alterations of alkaline phosphatase can occur: it rises more than average or falls below its normal levels. In this FastlyHealarticle, we will explain the causes of low alkaline phosphatase or hypophosphatasia, the symptoms that can occur when it decreases, and how to increase it.
Table of Contents
Alkaline phosphatase: average values
The normal levels of alkaline phosphatase depend on the age group and sex. This is how the following values are accepted as normal:
- Men: 40 to 140 U / L
- Women: 40 to 140 U / L
- Children : 60 to 300 U / L
In any case, levels below 20 U / L are considered critically low.
Low alkaline phosphatase: causes
Several causes can lead to low levels of alkaline phosphatase, among which we can consider:
Prolonged fasting and malnutrition
Diets deficient in protein or low in calories are a common cause of low alkaline phosphatase.
Similarly, diseases that condition low protein absorption (celiac disease or others) will lead to a decrease in alkaline phosphatase levels.
Scurvy (severe vitamin C deficiency), which is invariably accompanied by hypophosphatasia, should also be considered in this line.
Genetic disorders
Congenital hypophosphatasia is a rare genetic disorder in which a mutation in the gene for alkaline phosphatase, which produces low levels thereof, occurs.
Wilson’s disease is another rare genetic disorder in which large amounts of copper accumulate, which finally leads to a decrease in alkaline phosphatase levels, occurs.
Hypothyroidism
In the case of abnormally low thyroid function, there is also a decrease in alkaline phosphatase levels.
Hypophosphatasia is a common finding in patients with congenital hypothyroidism (cretinism).
Severe anemia
Severe anemia, especially those caused by vitamin B12 deficiency, also has deficient levels of this enzyme.
Zinc or magnesium deficiencies
Zinc or magnesium iron deficiency also leads to decreased alkaline phosphatase production and consequent symptoms.
Medicines
Oral contraceptives, prednisone (a corticosteroid), and tamoxifen (an anti-estrogen) can lead to transient low alkaline phosphatase.
Resistance exercises
The performance of resistance exercises in people not used to them can cause a temporary decrease in alkaline phosphatase and its symptoms.
Chronic myeloid LeukemiaLeukemia
The chronic myeloid LeukemiaLeukemia characteristically presents with abnormally low levels of alkaline phosphatase.
Low alkaline phosphatase: symptoms
The symptoms associated with low alkaline phosphatase levels are nonspecific and can be attributed to many other causes. Among them, we find:
- Unjustified fatigue and tiredness.
- Respiratory distress is not associated with disorders of the respiratory system.
- Accentuated weight loss.
- Poor tolerance to low temperatures.
- Severe constipation
- Tachycardia without apparent justification.
These symptoms should be compared with the previously mentioned causes to rule out hypophosphatasia.
How to raise low alkaline phosphatase
To raise the low alkaline phosphatase to its normal levels, the specific cause that has caused its decline must be addressed:
- In the case of malnutrition or prolonged fasting, the indicated correction is the adequacy of the protein-calorie intake according to sex, age, weight, and height. If this is confirmed, the suspension of the vegetarian habit (which is an important cause) is included here.
- Correcting anemia through an adequate supply of vitamin B12 will consequently correct alkaline phosphatase levels.
- The deficiencies of zinc and magnesium can be corrected with the intake of shellfish, oysters, clams, dairy, chicken, turkey, and beef or lamb, which are rich in both.
- Drug hypophosphatasias are suppressed by suspending the drug (s) involved in their genesis.
- The suspension of resistance exercise routines will allow the normalization of alkaline phosphatase values in cases of decline due to this cause.
- In the cases of specific pathologies (Wilson’s disease, LeukemiaLeukemia, and others), their adequate control will allow the restoration of normal phosphatase.
Additionally, regardless of the cause of low alkaline phosphatase, vegetable oils (coconut oil, corn oil, etc.) and foods with high phosphorus content (lentils, nuts, and eggs, among others) in the diet will contribute to preventing its development.
This article is merely informative. At FastlyHeal .com, we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor if you present any condition or discomfort.
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I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.