Studies show that Calcium-D-glucarate may help fight Gilbert’s Syndrome symptoms. Here I unpack what it is and what it could do for people with Gilbert’s Syndrome.
What is Calcium-D-glucarate?
Calcium-D-glucarate is naturally found in fruits and vegetables. It’s a combination of calcium with glucaric acid, and is similar to glucaric acid which is found in the body. It is commonly used as a dietary supplement due to its potential health benefits.
What does Calcium-D-glucarate do and why does it help fight Gilbert’s Syndrome symptoms?
Some studies show that Calcium-D-glucarate may have a positive effect on liver health and bile metabolism. It is believed that Calcium-D-glucarate may improve the detoxification process in the liver by increasing the excretion of certain toxins. Importantly for people with Gilbert’s Syndrome this includes bilirubin.
How does Calcium-D-glucarate help fight Gilbert’s Syndrome symptoms?
It’s thought that Calcium-D-glucarate stops an enzyme called beta-glucuronidase. This enzyme is responsible for breaking the bond between glucuronic acid and toxins. This lets them be reabsorbed into the body instead of being eliminated. This means that by stopping beta-glucuronidase from working as well, Calcium-D-glucarate may help prevent the reabsorption of bilirubin and other toxins.
Here’s what happens in your body in medical terms:
Beta-glucuronidase is an enzyme that plays a role in the breakdown of bilirubin in the intestines. It acts by deconjugating bilirubin, converting it back into its unconjugated form, which is less water-soluble. Normally, bilirubin that has been conjugated by UGT1A1 in the liver is excreted into the intestines, where it is further metabolised and eliminated from the body. However, in individuals with Gilbert’s syndrome, the reduced UGT1A1 activity leads to impaired bilirubin conjugation. The presence of beta-glucuronidase in the intestines can cause an increased release of unconjugated bilirubin.
The increased activity of beta-glucuronidase can contribute to higher levels of unconjugated bilirubin. This makes the symptoms of Gilbert’s syndrome worse.
Here’s what this means in ordinary words-
Calcium-D-glucurate gets in the way of chemicals that increase bilirubin and so you can deal with it more easily, if you have Gilbert’s Syndrome.
Be cautious!
It is always important to note that the available research on Calcium-D-glucarate’s effect on bilirubin is limited. More studies are needed to establish how well it works in reducing Gilbert’s Syndrome symptoms.
Is it the right supplement for you?
Don’t forget – everyone responds differently to supplements too. You might have other conditions that mean that Calcium-D-glucarate isn’t right for you. It does other things, such as affect estrogen levels and some suggest its use for hormone related conditions :https://drbrighten.com/benefits-of-calcium-d-glucarate/. Make sure you check with your Doctor before taking it as it could affect other medications.
You can increase your levels of the glucaric acid element by eating more apples, oranges, broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage.
You can also decrease the beta-glucuronidase that may be worsening your symptoms by eating a healthy low fat diet, that includes plenty of fresh fruit and veg. Reducing smoking, alcohol and sugar may also help. Want to find out more about how your diet can help you live a happier life with Gilbert’s Syndrome? Check out this post https://gilbertssyndrome.org.uk/the-liver-diet/ You can find out more about food and nutrition to help with Gilbert’s Syndrome in the Posts ‘diet’ category here https://gilbertssyndrome.org.uk/category/diet/
If you decide you want to get a supplement, try this one. It has good reviews, although badged as for women due to its impact on hormones – you don’t have to be a woman to take it of course.
Want more help?
You can work with me as a health coach to support you in managing your Gilbert’s Syndrome symptoms and improving your wellbeing. Find out more here https://wellandgoodlife.co.uk/
You can also take the Gilbert’s Syndrome Essentials course which gives you all the basics on Gilbert’s Syndrome and how to manage the top symptoms. Find out more here https://wellandgoodlife.co.uk/uncategorized/essentials-of-gilberts-syndrome-course/
So, it sounds like Calcium-D-glucarate just might have a positive impact on bilirubin levels by potentially enhancing the liver’s detoxification processes. However, further research is needed to fully understand its effects, and it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for personalised advice if you plan to take a supplement.
You can find out more here
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-136/calcium-d-glucarate
