Bile pigments are colored compounds produced during the breakdown of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells. The primary bile pigments are bilirubin and biliverdin, which are formed when the liver processes old or damaged red blood cells. These pigments are important for the digestion and absorption of fats in the intestine. Bile pigments are excreted in bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver. They give bile its characteristic yellow-green color. Elevated levels of bile pigments in the blood can indicate liver dysfunction or other health issues, leading to conditions such as jaundice, where the skin and eyes take on a yellow hue.