As you must already be aware, the liver is one of our vital organs, which plays a huge role in digestion. Bilirubin which is a break down product that is present in the blood is eliminated naturally, maintaining a safe level. These levels are a good indicator of liver function, as the moment the liver can not cope with the work load bilirubin levels begin to rise. Bilirubin is a yellowish brownish liquid and yellowing is therefore characteristic of jaundice, which is in itself a symptom of liver damage.
Tests for bilirubin levels have two readings, normal ranges for total bilirubin levels being from 0.3 to 1.8millgrams per deciliter, while direct bilirubin levels vary between 0 to 0.3 milligrams per deciliter. Since you havent specified, I would guess that your reading of 1.3mg/dl is from a reading of the direct bilirubin levels, in which case this is a very high reading, and you should take immediate action to control the situation. On the other hand, if you have no visible or clearly discernible symptoms then it is possible that you have been erroneously reading total bilirubin values, in which case your levels are perfectly normal.
The good thing is that whether or not your bilirubin levels are high, the natural treatments that are useful and can help cope with and overcome the problem would also help under normal circumstances. They can help cleanse and detoxify your system.
- You first need to switch to a simple liquid diet, which should only comprise of water, and vegetable and fruit juices. Keep in mind that these should be fresh fruits and vegetables, not processed or ready made juices, with synthetic flavors and preservatives added in.
- After a day or two you can introduce foods like broths and soups as well. Make sure that you do not consume any oily or fatty foods.
- Spicy food, pickles, and non vegetarian foods should also be avoided.
- Make sure that any foods or drinks that you consume are hygienically prepared as your immunity would also be low.
- Alcohol and tobacco have to be abstained from completely. This is not much of an option and must be treated very seriously. Continued usage while suffering from jaundice can be fatal.
Most treatments focus on alleviating the symptoms, while adequate rest is also essential. Try and drink fresh sugarcane juice and a mixture of Indian lilac or neem juice extracted from the leaves, along with honey.
answered by G M