My niece has Gilbert's Syndrome.....?

Question

Does anyone know of a good way for her to beat this naturally?

Answer 1

Gilbert's syndrome is a common inherited disorder that affects the processing by the liver of the pigments in the bile called bilirubin. This results in an increase in the level of bilirubin levels in the bloodstream and can lead to a yellowing of the skin and the eyes, that is jaundice. The liver itself is otherwise normal and people with Gilbert's syndrome have a normal life expectancy. It is common and not a dangerous condition in any way. Gilbert’s syndrome is usually detected because of mild jaundice, or because slightly abnormal liver tests are noted when blood tests are performed for unrelated reasons. It is important to make the diagnosis so that the person can be reassured and serious liver disease excluded as a possibility. The diagnosis can often be made on the basis of simple blood tests. All the liver tests should be normal apart from the serum bilirubin, which is increased. Different blood tests may need to be carried out, if there are other symptoms. These will look for other reasons that the levels of bilirubin might be raised, such as other undiagnosed liver diseases. It is only rarely that a liver biopsy is necessary. In some cases more specific tests may be needed to confirm the diagnosis and this should be discussed with your specialist. It is important to understand that Gilbert’s syndrome is not a disease. Alcohol - People with GS seem sensitive to alcohol to differing degrees. The best advice is to be aware that it can cause stress to your liver and see how much or little your body is happy to process. Fatty foods – digestive problems seem common in GS and some people find fatty foods put a lot of stress on their digestive system. Sugary foods and refined carbohydrates – these mess with the bodies energy levels, and if you’re suffering with fatigue then these won’t help balance your energy. Plus sugar can impair your liver’s ability to detoxify. Other suspects include – fluoride, peppermint, vanilla, menthol and the B vitamin niacin (on its own, but ok with other B vitamins) Artificial sweeteners – can cause an increase in the ‘brain-fog’ experience. Protein - Raising the protein proportion of their diet has provided raised energy levels for some GS sufferers. Oily fish may be particularly effective as it could also enhance the removal of the fat-soluble bilirubin from the body. Broccoli, walnuts, blueberries, avocadoes, cabbage, cauliflower, eggs – a combination of natural sulphur compounds and those containing glutathione (the most powerful internal antioxident and liver protector) will aid the breakdown of toxins and chemicals. Supplements of glycine, glutamic acid and cysteine also produce glutathione and thus aid the detoxification in the phase 2 pathways. Taurine plays a major role in good liver function via detoxification. Turmeric has been shown to increase the glutathione and glucuronyl transferease enzymes important for detoxification. Milk Thistle is used by many people with GS, and has been used for hundreds of years as a herbal remedy for liver disorders and depression (which medicinal herbalists often link). Carrots and beetroot are fantastic detox aids. Methionine, an amino acid, activates the phase 2 pathways. Dandelion tea can stimulate liver function. Royal Jelly is taken by some people with GS, who have found it beneficial for their energy levels.


Hope this helps
Matador 89

Answer 2

Gilbert's Syndrome is caused by high bilirubin, which gives you a yellow skin tone. I am not sure of any supplements to detox the liver, perhaps a prescribed medication by your doctor would be your best and safest. As for the sulphur sensitivity, I don't think the two are related.