Bilirubin is a yellowish substance produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells in the body. When old or damaged red blood cells are broken down, hemoglobin—a molecule that carries oxygen in the blood—is converted into bilirubin. This substance is transported to the liver, where it is processed and excreted into the bile, which is a fluid that aids in digestion. Bilirubin can be measured in the blood and is also responsible for the yellow color in bruises and urine.
Bilirubin is transported to the liver, where it undergoes processing and is eventually excreted into bile. Bile, containing bilirubin, helps in the digestion of fats in the small intestine. Additionally, bilirubin, when in appropriate levels, acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals. However, elevated levels of bilirubin can indicate underlying health issues and may lead to jaundice, a condition characterized by a yellowing of the skin and eyes.
When bilirubin levels are not optimal, whether too low or too high, this can have varying effects on the body.
Low levels might not typically cause symptoms, but very low levels can potentially affect the body's ability to scavenge free radicals, leading to decreased antioxidant protection.
On the other hand, high levels, beyond the normal range, can lead to jaundice, potentially affecting the skin, eyes, and causing other symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and in severe cases, complications such as neurological issues or damage to the liver and gallbladder. Maintaining bilirubin within the optimal range is crucial for its antioxidant function and to avoid adverse health effects.
Bilirubin is a yellowish substance produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells in the body. When old or damaged red blood cells are broken down, hemoglobin—a molecule that carries oxygen in the blood—is converted into bilirubin. This substance is transported to the liver, where it is processed and excreted into the bile, which is a fluid that aids in digestion. Bilirubin can be measured in the blood and is also responsible for the yellow color in bruises and urine.
Bilirubin is transported to the liver, where it undergoes processing and is eventually excreted into bile. Bile, containing bilirubin, helps in the digestion of fats in the small intestine. Additionally, bilirubin, when in appropriate levels, acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals. However, elevated levels of bilirubin can indicate underlying health issues and may lead to jaundice, a condition characterized by a yellowing of the skin and eyes.
When bilirubin levels are not optimal, whether too low or too high, this can have varying effects on the body.
Low levels might not typically cause symptoms, but very low levels can potentially affect the body's ability to scavenge free radicals, leading to decreased antioxidant protection.
On the other hand, high levels, beyond the normal range, can lead to jaundice, potentially affecting the skin, eyes, and causing other symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and in severe cases, complications such as neurological issues or damage to the liver and gallbladder. Maintaining bilirubin within the optimal range is crucial for its antioxidant function and to avoid adverse health effects.
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/17845-bilirubin
https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/bilirubin-test
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