What effect does sport have on my disease and what kind of sport can I do?
In general, people with Meulengracht’s disease are not physically impaired in any way and can practice any sport that suits them. Unfortunately, sport and physical activity do not contribute to a decrease in blood bilirubin levels. However, regular exercise can have a positive effect on the symptoms caused by Meulengracht’s disease.
In particular, rapid fatigue and persistent exhaustion can be easily managed with endurance training, such as running, cycling or swimming. However, it is important that patients make sure that they consume sufficient carbohydrates and calories before and after the run, as otherwise the nausea and yellowing of the skin can be aggravated by fasting. Excessive sport and heavy physical activity in particular can also worsen the symptoms of Meulengracht’s disease.
The protein myoglobin is found in the muscles, which serves as an oxygen reservoir and is similar to hemoglobin in the blood. Myoglobin is broken down in the liver via biliverdin in a similar way to hemoglobin, so the concentration of bilirubin increases due to the increased breakdown of muscle cells during exercise. In case of problems or a worsening of symptoms due to sport, it is best to discuss with your doctor which sport is best suited for you and how it can have a positive effect on the disease and the associated symptoms.
What influence does alcohol have on the disease?
Alcohol is broken down in the liver by the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase. The consumption of alcohol damages the liver tissue and further restricts the function of the liver. As a result, the concentrations of indirect (conjugated) and direct (non-conjugated) bilirubin in the blood increase. Alcohol significantly increases bilirubin levels in Meulengracht’s disease and patients should therefore strictly avoid alcoholic beverages.
Homeopathy
There are also alternative medical and homeopathic methods to relieve the symptoms of Meulengracht’s disease.A special Chinese tea made from various herbs, the Yin Zhi Huang tea, can help the liver to excrete excess bilirubin more efficiently. A number of homeopathic remedies, such as Carduus marianus, Crotalus and Chionanthus virginica, have a supportive effect against jaundice. A homeopathic or naturopathic physician can respond individually to the patient’s symptoms and create a suitable homeopathic treatment plan.
