DEAR DR. GOTT: My doctor has told me that I have elevated bilirubin but he has never been overly concerned about it because it has been a factor that shows up every time I have lab work. I turned 65 in January and wonder if this condition will be a problem as I get older. Is it congenital? Can diet make a difference? I am trying to stick to an anti-inflammatory diet and I avoid flour and sugar as much as I can. I also avoid dairy products because they cause gas and mucous problems. I have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, fibrositis and IBS, all of which seem to run in my family and cause me to lose sleep. Any advice?

DEAR READER: Bilirubin is a yellowish bile pigment. It is formed when the liver breaks down old red blood cells. Elevated levels of bilirubin can cause jaundice, a condition most often associated with newborns.
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