Gilbert's syndrome, also known as constitutional hepatic dysfunction, is an inherited liver disease in which your body cannot properly process bilirubin, a yellowish-brown pigment that is produced when your liver breaks down old or worn-out red blood cells. If too much bilirubin builds up in your body, it makes your skin have a yellow color, a condition called jaundice. Dietary modifications may help prevent symptoms of Gilbert's syndrome.
Balanced Diet
Fasting or eating a very low calorie diet can trigger Gilbert's syndrome symptoms, according to MedlinePlus. Eat regular balanced meals every day and avoid fasting or skipping meals. Your meals should contain plenty of fruits and vegetables, according to MayoClinic.com Fruits and vegetables contain vitamins and minerals that help your body stay healthy.
Fluids
Dehydration can also trigger Gilbert's syndrome symptoms, according to MayoClinic.com. Dehydration is a condition in which there is too little fluid in your body. Drink six to eight glasses of water every day to hydrate your body. Limit excess intake of caffeinated beverages such as coffee, tea and colas. Large amounts of caffeinated beverages have a diuretic effect and cause your body to lose more fluids, which can lead to dehydration.
Alcohol
Avoid alcohol if you have Gilbert's syndrome and other forms of liver disease. Alcohol can damage or destroy liver cells. Your liver metabolizes alcohol so that it can be removed from your body. Your liver cells can become damaged if you drink more alcohol than it can process. Damaged liver cells are unable to process bilirubin, which leads to elevated bilirubin levels.
Syndrome of Gilbert's Syndrome
Gilbert's syndrome rarely causes symptoms. When symptoms occur, you may experience weakness, fatigue, upper right abdominal pain, loss of appetite, yellowing of your skin and the whites of your eyes and darkening of urine. according to Mayo Clinic. Consult your doctor if you notice these symptoms. Other conditions that interfere with liver functions can also cause the same symptoms. Your doctor will help determine the cause of the symptoms.
