Direct Bilirubin

Routine annual

also conjugated bilirubin

What it isThe fraction of bilirubin that has been processed (conjugated) by the liver and is water-soluble, ready for excretion into bile.

DoesTravels from the liver through bile ducts to the intestine for elimination.

GoodLow direct bilirubin signals patent bile flow and healthy liver clearance.

BadElevated direct bilirubin specifically signals bile duct obstruction, liver cell damage interfering with bile excretion, or rare inherited disorders.

Standard
0.0–0.3 mg/dL.
Optimal
0.0–0.2 mg/dL (lower is good)
Modifiers
Rises with cholestasis, gallstones, drug-induced injury.

How to optimize

Lifestyle
Diet
Supplements
Peptides
Drugs
Treat underlying cause; ursodeoxycholic acid for cholestatic conditions.