Indirect Bilirubin: A Marker for Liver Function & Blood Health

What is Indirect Bilirubin?Indirect bilirubin is a form of bilirubin, a yellowish pigment produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. It's a substance that results from the body's process of clearing out old red blood cells, which then gets transported to the liver. This type of bilirubin is not water-soluble and travels in the bloodstream bound to albumin until it reaches the liver, where it is converted into direct (or conjugated) bilirubin and excreted in bile.


How it’s related to your healthspanIndirect bilirubin levels are an important indicator of liver function and overall health. Elevated levels of indirect bilirubin can suggest problems such as hemolytic anaemia (where red blood cells are destroyed faster than they can be made), liver diseases, or inherited conditions like Gilbert's syndrome. Chronic high levels of bilirubin can lead to jaundice, characterised by yellowing of the skin and eyes, and can indicate underlying liver dysfunction or bile duct obstruction. ‍How to optimise your Indirect Bilirubin levelsOptimising indirect bilirubin levels involves supporting liver health and ensuring effective red blood cell turnover. Consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains supports liver function. Foods high in antioxidants, such as berries, leafy greens, and nuts, can help protect the liver from damage. Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption is critical, as alcohol can impair liver function and increase bilirubin levels. Staying hydrated assists the liver in processing and excreting bilirubin effectively. If your indirect bilirubin levels are persistently high, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider to identify and address any underlying conditions.‍How to analyse your Indirect Bilirubin levelsUnderstanding your biomarkers can help detect potential health issues early and guide you in making informed health decisions. Personalised recommendations enhance your overall well-being.Take the next step by booking your Mito Health Longevity Health Screening today.‍What your Longevity Health Screening includes ($399):Analysis of 67 biomarkersHealth risk assessmentsPersonalised health recommendationsSecure online dashboard to track results‍
How to book your health screening:Step 1: Register onlineStep 2: Choose your blood draw location: Home or Trapeze Rec Club.Step 3: Receive results online in 7-10 working days. 
Book now‍Why choose Mito Health to analyse your biomarkers?
Convenient home-based blood draws or at our Tanjong Pagar wellness studio: Trapeze Rec Club.Expert analysis by our Longevity Doctor Dr Ryan Ware, who personally vets all the results & diagnosis.Actionable insights. You can act on your results with our personalised recommendations to improve your health today.

Frequently Asked Questions:Is your health screening claimable by insurance or company benefits?Yes, our health screening is recognised by insurance & corporate companies as a health screening panel. You will be issued an official invoice which can be used to file a claim.
What do I need to take note of before my blood test?You’ll be required to fast 8 hours before the blood draw. Plain water is allowed.No strenuous exercise 12 hours prior to the test.
Do I have to fast before the blood test?Yes, you’ll be required to fast 8 hours before your blood draw. Plain water is allowed. Do I have to give my urine & stool samples?Yes, you will be required to provide urine & stool samples. Samples can be collected the same day as your blood draw, as the containers will be sent to you in advance. If you’re not able to produce the samples on the same day, they can be picked up on a separate arranged day. How long does the health screening take?Just 15-20 minutes! We’ll collect your blood sample & key biometrics. Stool & urine samples can be collected on the same day or in a separate arrangement. How often should I do a health screening?Doctors recommend at least twice a year, so you can also measure before & after any health interventions. Our health screening is also complementary to traditional GP & Hospital health screenings if you have already done your health screening for the year. Our test report offers more in-depth insights & tailored health recommendations. You can view examples of the insights on our demo dashboard here. Our panel of biomarkers not only extends your lifespan with early illness detection, but they also provide helpful insights to how you can feel & move better. Learn more about our biomarkers here. Why is health screening important?Long-term health: Regular screenings can help you stay healthy throughout your life. By identifying and addressing potential problems early on, you can reduce your risk of developing more serious health problems down the road.Early treatment is better: Many health conditions are easier and more affordable to treat when caught early. Screenings can help identify these issues before they become more serious and require more extensive treatment.Peace of mind: Knowing your health status through screenings can be a big stress reliever. It allows you to focus on staying healthy and enjoying life.Think of it as an investment in your future health and well-being. It's a chance to take control and stay proactive about your health.

I have more questions, how do I contact you? You can email us at help@mitohealth.com & we'll revert as soon as possible!‍

Indirect bilirubin is a form of bilirubin, a yellowish pigment produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells.‍It's a substance that results from the body's process of clearing out old red blood cells, which then gets transported to the liver.‍This type of bilirubin is not water-soluble and travels in the bloodstream bound to albumin until it reaches the liver, where it is converted into direct (or conjugated) bilirubin and excreted in bile.

Indirect bilirubin levels help assess how effectively the body is processing and managing red blood cell turnover.‍It can provide insight into conditions such as hemolytic anemia, liver function impairments, or inherited metabolic disorders like Gilbert’s syndrome.

Incorporate liver-supportive nutrients and antioxidants, such as vitamins E and C, which may improve liver efficiency. Foods like leafy greens, berries, and whole grains are beneficial. Proper hydration supports liver metabolism and may help the body manage bilirubin more effectively. Ensuring adequate intake of iron, folate, and vitamin B12 helps maintain healthy red blood cells, potentially reducing unnecessary bilirubin production due to hemolysis.

Elevated levels of indirect bilirubin may indicate increased red blood cell breakdown, such as in hemolytic anemia, or inefficient processing by the liver, which can occur in conditions like Gilbert's syndrome.‍Low levels of indirect bilirubin are generally not a health concern and are less commonly significant in clinical settings.