|  | Conditions Treatments | Metabolism Disorders

The Effect of Ethanol on Bilirubin Metabolism

In humans, 250-400 milligrams of bilirubin is produced daily, mostly in the liver. High levels of bilirubin are seen in liver disease, which is a cause of jaundice. When alcohol is consumed, the liver produces more bilirubin to process the alcohol. Elevated levels can cause liver inflammation and damage.

  1. Bilirubin Metabolism

    • Bilirubin forms in the red blood cells. Red blood cells stay in the body, until they get old and destroyed. Once these old blood cells are destroyed, hemoglobin gets released, and the chemical that remains is called bilirubin. Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment that is found in bile, which is excreted from the liver. Bilirubin can also be seen in the healing process of bruises when the skin surrounding the bruise yellows.

    Ethanol Facts

    • Ethanol, otherwise known as alcohol, is typically consumed by people for recreational purposes. When consumed, alcohol is absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. The liver plays a vital role and filters out unwanted toxic substances from the body. Alcohol is oxidized in the liver, and excessive use of alcohol can result in inflammation of the liver and cause permanent damage. Ethanol can damage all parts of the gastrointestinal system, including the pancreas, liver and stomach.

    Effects on Bilirubin

    • Alcohol consumption increases the amount of bilirubin that is found in the bloodstream. When bilirubin levels rise in the blood, and it is not metabolized appropriately, a person becomes jaundiced. Symptoms of jaundice include yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes. People who have signs of jaundice should not drink alcohol, because it puts added stress on the liver. Continued consumption of alcohol can result in hepatitis, cirrhosis and could even result in death in those with inadequate bilirubin metabolism.

    Preventions

    • To prevent the negative effects of alcohol on bilirubin metabolism, a person should limit his alcohol consumption or avoid alcohol all together. A person who is already suffering from liver disease, and shows signs of jaundice or liver inflammation, should avoid alcohol. If jaundice is present, the sufferer should consult a medical professional immediately, as it is a sign of liver dysfunction and could result in liver failure, or in some cases, death.

Metabolism Disorders - Related Articles