Understand your values of Total Bilirubin (mg/dl)

What is Total Bilirubin and its Measure Units?

Total Bilirubin is a yellowish substance found in bile, a fluid made by the liver. It forms after red blood cells break down and is eventually excreted out of your body. When you have a blood test, the "Total Bilirubin" level is measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Understanding your Total Bilirubin levels is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring certain health conditions, especially those related to liver function. When analyzing your blood tests, keep an eye on this substance using its unit of measurement: mg/dl.

Which is Its Function in Our Bodies?

Total Bilirubin plays a role in the body's process of renewing red blood cells. When these cells complete their lifecycle, they break down, and bilirubin is produced as a by-product. Most of it travels to the liver, where it’s chemically altered and then passed into the intestines. From there, it’s eliminated from the body through stool. This is why bilirubin is responsible for the yellow-brown color of feces. Besides being an indicator of how well the liver is functioning, bilirubin also contributes to understanding the condition of red blood cells and overall metabolic balance. Essentially, it’s a marker for the efficiency of the liver's clearing functions.

What Happens if We Have Values Out of Normal?

When Total Bilirubin levels are out of the normal range, it often signals potential health issues. If the levels are too high, it could indicate liver diseases such as hepatitis or cirrhosis, bile duct obstruction, or other conditions like hemolytic anemia where red blood cells are broken down too quickly. Symptoms like jaundice, where the skin and eyes turn yellow, may appear. On the other hand, low bilirubin levels are rare but could suggest certain health issues that need medical attention. Regular monitoring is key, as understanding these values helps in the early detection and treatment of underlying health problems.

Which Are Its Optimum Values and What Should We Do to Improve Our Values of This Substance?

The normal range for Total Bilirubin in adults is typically between 0.1 to 1.2 mg/dL. To maintain these optimum levels, it’s crucial to support liver health through a balanced diet, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption. Nutrients like antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables, as well as staying hydrated, can help in keeping bilirubin levels within the healthy range. Additionally, ensure any medications are approved by a healthcare professional, as some might affect liver function.

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