Bilirubin:

Bilirubin:

Bilirubin is a reddish yellow substance made during the breakdown of red blood cells. Bilirubin is the byproduct of a metabolic procedure called catabolism in which waste products are eliminated. Bilirubin is excreted from urine and in case of excess bilirubin the urine, it looks yellow in color. This indicates high bilirubin levels. High bilirubin levels in the body is caused due to conditions of red blood cells, gallbladder, liver, bile duct obstruction, infant jaundice, and many others. To evaluate high or low levels of bilirubin, a bilirubin blood test or a bilirubin urine test is performed. This test assess the total bilirubin level including the conjugated and the unconjugated bilirubin levels. People with high bilirubin levels generally have yellow staining of the skin and the eyes, dark urine, pale-colored stools, vomiting, and diarrhea. Treatment for high bilirubin depends upon the underlying condition. Since bilirubin is looked upon as a potent antioxidant, its role is important for people with diabetes. Serum bilirubin is inversely correlated with progression of diabetic retinopathy and nephropathy. So, bilirubin has therapeutic potential in diabetes management.