Gilbert’s Syndrome: A Common but Overlooked Liver Condition
Although Gilbert’s Syndrome is relatively common, many people have never heard of it. Also known as familial hyperbilirubinaemia, Gilbert’s Syndrome (GS) is a genetic liver disorder that affects the body’s ability to detoxify certain substances effectively.
What is Gilbert’s Syndrome?
Gilbert’s Syndrome impacts a liver detoxification process called glucuronidation. About 10% of the global population is estimated to have GS. In those with GS, the activity and expression of certain enzymes—particularly the UGT1A1 enzyme—are reduced. This leads to a 30% decrease in the body’s ability to process and eliminate bilirubin, a waste product formed when the body breaks down red blood cells.
Instead of being effectively cleared, bilirubin builds up in the bloodstream. Specifically, it’s the unconjugated bilirubin (UCB) that tends to remain elevated. A consistently raised level of UCB—particularly above 15 µmol/L across multiple blood tests—may indicate Gilbert’s Syndrome.
Isn’t Gilbert’s Syndrome Considered Benign?
The general medical view is that GS is a benign condition that doesn’t require treatment. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case for everyone. Many people with GS experience symptoms—they’ve just never had those symptoms connected to the condition.
Common Symptoms of Gilbert’s Syndrome
Digestive Symptoms:
Nausea
Abdominal pain
Diarrhoea
Bloating
Fatty stools
Mental and Emotional Wellbeing:
Anxiety
Depression
Mood swings
Hormonal Symptoms:
Irregular cycles
Oestrogen excess
Other Symptoms:
Fatigue
Dizziness
Flu-like symptoms
What Makes Gilbert’s Syndrome Symptoms Worse?
Certain factors can increase bilirubin levels and worsen symptoms, including:
Fasting
Stress
Constipation
Vigorous exercise
Certain medications: paracetamol, aspirin, NSAIDs, benzodiazepines
The Surprising Upside of Gilbert’s Syndrome
It’s not all bad news. Elevated bilirubin has been shown to have powerful antioxidant effects. People with GS may experience:
Slower ageing and DNA protection
Improved blood sugar control in diabetes
Lower risk of cardiovascular disease
Decreased mortality in hereditary haemochromatosis
Reduced risk of lung and colon cancer
So while the symptoms can be frustrating, there’s a protective aspect to GS that’s well worth acknowledging!
Supporting Your Body with Gilbert’s Syndrome
To reduce symptoms and support your body’s natural detox pathways, here are some practical strategies:
1. Prioritise a High-Fibre Diet
Aim for at least 35g fibre per day to support liver detoxification, hormone clearance, and gut health.
Try a daily fibre blend: 1 tbsp each of freshly ground chia, flaxseed, and psyllium husk.
Tip: Pre-grind and freeze your seed blend to save time and preserve freshness.
Add 2 kiwi fruits daily to reduce constipation. They’re rich in fibre and contain small amounts of melatonin—great for sleep!
2. Encourage Bile Flow
Drink lemon juice in warm water three times a day to gently stimulate bile.
Add foods like parsley, Granny Smith apples, and extra virgin olive oil.
A herbal liver support blend from your naturopath can also be very helpful.
3. Don’t Fear Healthy Fats
Low-fat diets can increase bilirubin levels.
Include healthy fats like avocado, nuts, seeds, oily fish, and olive oil to support bile flow and detoxification.
4. Skip the Alcohol
Alcohol places extra strain on the liver.
In GS, where detoxification is already compromised, alcohol can worsen symptoms and increase bilirubin levels.
Should You Take Supplements for Gilbert’s Syndrome?
Yes—but please don’t self-prescribe.
While supplementation can be incredibly helpful, I strongly recommend working with a qualified naturopath who can assess your individual case. Self-prescribing—even with natural products—can be ineffective or, in some cases, harmful.
In clinic, I may use combinations of:
Liver-supportive herbs: St Mary’s Thistle, Globe Artichoke, Dandelion Root, Rosemary
Prebiotics: Inulin, PHGG, GOS
Gut repair nutrients: Zinc (for tight junctions), quercetin, broccoli seed extract
Hormone detoxifiers: Calcium-D-Glucarate, DIM (for excess oestrogen)
Probiotics: Strain-specific formulations to support gut–liver health
Every person’s presentation of Gilbert’s Syndrome is different, and your treatment plan should reflect that.
Final Thoughts
Gilbert’s Syndrome is more than just “benign”—for many, it’s a key piece of the puzzle behind unexplained symptoms. The good news? With the right support, you can significantly reduce symptoms and improve your overall wellbeing.
If this resonates with you, I’d love to help you uncover what’s driving your symptoms and create a tailored plan to support your liver, gut, and hormones.
AUTHOR: Talitha
I specialise in gut health (IBS, IBD, microbiome testing), women's health (preconception, fertility, hormone balance), and mental health (depression, stress, anxiety). I am a degree- qualified naturopath who LOVES helping people transform their health stories!!
