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LDH, or lactate dehydrogenase, is an enzyme involved in anaerobic metabolism. It is present in almost all tissues of the body, but high concentrations are found in muscle, liver, and kidney. LDH is a nonspecific marker of tissue turnover, a normal metabolic process. (source)
Low serum LDH levels can be influenced by physiological factors such as decreased cellular turnover and reduced tissue damage, as LDH is primarily released from damaged cells. Nutritionally, inadequate intake of nutrients essential for cellular metabolism can also contribute to lower LDH levels. (source, source)
Limit consumption of fatty fish: Excessive omega-3 fatty acid intake has been shown to lower LDH concentrations. (source) Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation by decreasing muscle damage and oxidative stress within the body, which then decreases the release of LDH. Limiting excessive consumption of omega-3 fatty acids will help regulate LDH levels in the body. (source) Recommendation: Monitor and limit excess intake of fatty fish, like salmon, mackerel, and sardines.
Exercise at a high intensity: High intensity exercise is associated with increased LDH levels. (source) High intensity exercise can cause microscopic muscle tears, leading to the release of LDH from these damaged muscle cells into the bloodstream, thereby increasing LDH. (source, source) Recommendation: Follow a structured program ensuring at least 75 minutes of 75% Max Heart Rate or greater weekly.
High serum LDH levels can often stem from physiological factors affecting the health of various organs, including the liver, heart, muscles, and kidneys, as LDH is found in many body tissues. Factors such as intense physical exertion leading to muscle damage or insufficient hydration can also contribute to elevated LDH levels. (source, source)
Prioritize fatty fish: Consumption of omega-3 fatty acids has been shown to lower LDH concentrations. (source) Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation by decreasing muscle damage and oxidative stress within the body, which then decreases the release of LDH. (source) Recommendation: Eat at least two servings of fatty fish a week.
One serving examples: Salmon (3 oz), Herring (3 oz), Bluefin Tuna (3 oz), Anchovies (3 oz), Mackerel (3 oz)
Active recovery: High intensity exercise is associated with increased LDH levels. (source) High intensity exercise can cause microscopic muscle tears, leading to the release of LDH from these damaged muscle cells into the bloodstream. (source, source) Active recovery techniques increase blood flow to working muscles and minimize the release of LDH from damaged tissue. (source) Recommendation: Prioritize techniques to enhance recovery capacity, such as low intensity movement and mobility, at least twice a week.
Supplement with fish oil: Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation has been shown to lower LDH concentrations. (source) Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation by decreasing muscle damage and oxidative stress within the body, which then decreases the release of LDH. (source) Recommendation: Supplement with at least 3 g of fish oil daily.
