← Blood tests
Amylase
Routine annualalso —
What it isAmylase is a digestive enzyme produced by the pancreas and salivary glands that breaks down starches into smaller sugars.
DoesInitiates carbohydrate digestion in the mouth and continues in the small intestine.
GoodA mid-range amylase signals normal pancreatic and salivary.
BadSharp elevation flags acute pancreatitis or pancreatic duct injury. Low amylase can suggest chronic pancreatic insufficiency.
- Standard
- 26–125 U/L.
- Optimal
- 40–100 U/L (narrow target)
- Modifiers
- Rises in salivary gland disease, intestinal disease; lipase is more specific for pancreas.
How to optimize
- Lifestyle
- Avoid binge alcohol; resolve gallstones; manage triglycerides.
- Diet
- Avoid heavy alcohol; manage triglycerides.
- Supplements
- —
- Peptides
- —
- Drugs
- Treat underlying cause.
Reference ranges are general adult lab norms; optimal ranges are editorial picks from the longevity literature — not medical advice. Always interpret results with your physician.
within Blood Sugar & Metabolic