I receivd my blood work back today from my primary care physician and it showed my TBIL level to be high at 1.4 ( ref range indicates 0.2-1.1 mg/dl. What can I do to lower this number to be in the acceptable range?Can I assume this is related to my kidneys?
Hi, Thanks for writing in. Elevated bilirubin levels are related to liver functioning. Raised creatinine levels are due to kidney problems. The liver has a normal function of detoxification in our body. When the red blood cells get old, they are destroyed in the liver and the hemoglobin pigment is salvaged. Hemoglobin breaks down in to heme pigment which is converted to bile and secreted. When the red cell destruction is higher than more bilirubin is generated and the bilirubin levels are increased. Bilirubin exists as conjugated and conjugated forms. Both together make total bilirubin. Your bilirubin level is marginally increased and not a serious concern. You can try to lower it by eating a more healthy diet with less amount of fat and oil. Alcohol intake should also be monitored. Please do not worry.