3 Ways To Lower Ammonia Levels In The Body

High ammonia levels are a common symptom of advanced liver disease, known as cirrhosis, Reye’s syndrome, and severe cases of hepatitis. If you have one of these diseases, it is likely that you will need to work on reducing your ammonia levels.

Normal ammonia levels range from 15 to 45 µ/dL (11 to 32 µmol/L). [4] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source Ammonia levels temporarily rise after exercise, especially strenuous and long-lasting exercise like long-distance running. [5] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Because of this, you should avoid exercise of all kinds as well as smoking before the test. [6] X Trustworthy Source University of Rochester Medical Center Leading academic medical center in the U. S. focused on clinical care and research Go to source

Follow your doctor’s instructions for timing and dosage amount for ammonia removal. Typically, 2–3 tablespoons (30–45 mL) of Lactulose are taken 3 to 4 times a day. [8] X Research source Lactulose is a liquid typically taken by mouth. However, if you have extremely high levels of ammonia and are hospitalized, it may be administered with an enema directly into the digestive system. Lactulose is the only medication used to lower ammonia levels in the body. However, it is sold under a variety of brand names, including Duphalac, Enulose, Generlac, Constulose, and Kristalose. [9] X Research source

Be sure to hydrate regularly when taking Lactulose. The medication will pull a lot of water out of your body, so you should replace that liquid in order to avoid dehydration. If your side effects are severe and impacting your quality of life, tell your doctor. This could signal that you need your dosage adjusted.

For example, try to eat a serving of yogurt every day. Yogurt is very high in probiotics and it can help your digestion, as well as your overall health. [12] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source

Eating a vegetarian diet also provides more dietary fiber and amino acids, which both help balance your ammonia levels.

For example, if you have liver disease and you are experiencing abnormal brain function, it’s a good idea to limit your protein intake as you recover.

Those with liver disease tend to have lower levels of zinc. Since zinc is an important part of normal ammonia disposal, supplementing zinc can help someone with high levels of ammonia get rid of it. [17] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source

Having your doctor approve your exact multivitamin and dosage will minimize the chance of you taking something that could have a negative impact on your liver function and ammonia levels. For instance, vitamin A in very high doses has been known to cause liver toxicity. [18] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source

Glutamine supplementation can be dangerous in people with liver failure. It’s important to discuss any supplements with your doctor before taking them. [20] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source