An increased AST level is usually a sign of liver disease. Liver disease is even more likely when the levels of substances checked by other liver blood tests have also increased. An increased AST level may be due to any of the following:
In order to keep itself fresh, the lettuce gives off carbon dioxide, causing a slight odour. This carbon dioxide is not harmful and the odour should disappear quickly once the salad package is opened.
Pick lettuce directly from the garden when ready to use it. Peel apart the leaves and rinse under cool running water. Avoid cutting with a knife, unless you are getting ready to serve it. Lettuce cut with a knife releases ascorbic acid oxidase. The chemical destroys vitamin C.