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What is bilirubin?

Bilirubin is a yellowish substance produced during the breakdown of old or damaged red blood cells in the liver. It plays a crucial role in the body’s waste removal process and can serve as an indicator of liver function and overall health.

Why is bilirubin important?

SiPhox Health includes bilirubin in our Cardiometabolic+ Panel to help monitor and manage testosterone levels. Unconjugated (water-insoluble) bilirubin is bound to albumin, a protein that transports it from the bloodstream to the liver. The liver is responsible for processing unconjugated bilirubin into conjugated (water soluble) bilirubin, which is excreted into bile before leaving the body through urine and feces. The levels of bilirubin in the blood are an important indicator of liver function and health.

High levels of bilirubin can indicate liver dysfunction or diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or bile duct obstruction. High levels of bilirubin in the blood can lead to jaundice, a condition characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes. Jaundice can occur in newborns with immature liver function, in adults with liver disease, or in conditions that lead to an increased breakdown of red blood cells.

Measuring bilirubin levels is a common part of liver function tests. These tests can help diagnose and monitor liver diseases and conditions that affect bile ducts or the breakdown of red blood cells.

How can I better understand my bilirubin levels?

Bilirubin levels are typically reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) of blood. SiPhox Health measures total bilirubin which includes both conjugated and unconjugated forms.

The reference ranges for bilirubin are:

When interpreting bilirubin results, higher than normal levels may indicate liver dysfunction, bile duct obstruction, hemolytic anemia, or other underlying health conditions. Elevated bilirubin levels, however, may be benign (harmless). According to a YouTube video by Dr. S. Miles, about 10% of the population may have Gilbert’s syndrome which is a benign elevation in bilirubin. Some studies even indicate that elevated bilirubin may have cardioprotective effects which could be due to its anti-oxidative properties.

Lower than normal bilirubin levels are less common but may suggest certain medications, genetic disorders, or conditions affecting red blood cell production. Additional testing may be required to confirm the diagnosis. Cleveland Clinic states that low levels of bilirubin generally aren’t a cause for concern.

How can I maintain optimal bilirubin levels?

If you need to maintain or adjust your bilirubin levels, consider the following strategies:

Dietary Changes: Eating a balanced diet with fiber, meat, dairy, and healthy fats can help in maintaining healthy bilirubin levels. Additionally, avoiding saturated fats, sugars, and high-calorie meals can help to regulate bilirubin levels.

Lifestyle Changes: To maintain healthy bilirubin levels, try maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and limiting alcohol consumption.

Where can I learn more?

DISCLAIMER: IF YOU ARE CONCERNED WITH ANY OF YOUR RESULTS, PLEASE CONSULT WITH YOUR PHYSICIAN.