How Does Alcohol Affect Kidneys? Drinking and Kidney Facts

How does alcohol affect kidneys?

The kidneys are vital in maintaining the body’s internal balance and overall health. These bean-shaped organs filter waste products, excess fluids, and toxins from the blood to form urine. 

Additionally, the kidneys help regulate blood pressure, stimulate red blood cell production, and contribute to bone health. Various factors affect their function, including alcohol intake. 

Can drinking cause kidney failure?

Certain foods and beverages affect kidney function. For instance, a high intake of sugary beverages or high-sodium foods may strain the kidneys (1, 2), potentially leading to kidney damage over time. Drinking alcoholic drinks may also negatively impact our kidneys. 

Several studies showed that long-term, heavy alcohol use is associated with kidney failure (3). A study found that chronic drinkers experience partial recovery of their kidney function within just 30 to 49 days of alcohol abstinence. This suggests that prolonged heavy drinking may put significant stress on our kidneys (4). 

Heavy alcohol use can lead to kidney failure (5, 6). This happens when the kidneys lose the ability to properly filter blood and maintain proper fluid and electrolyte balance (7). The condition results in the accumulation of toxins and waste products. In severe cases, dialysis or a kidney transplant is needed for survival (8).

However, the effect of alcohol on kidney function remains inconclusive. In fact, some studies show drinking alcohol has no association with kidney diseases (9). 

It’s worth noting that the harmful effects of alcohol may outweigh the potential benefits. Limiting alcohol intake is important to protect your kidneys and overall health. In addition, consuming enough water is crucial to support proper kidney function.

What are the first signs of kidney damage from alcohol?

In the early stages, kidney damage from alcohol may not be noticeable (10). However, as the condition progresses, certain signs may appear. Some of the first signs of kidney damage from alcohol include (11): 

• More frequent urination, especially during the night
• Weakness
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Swelling in the hands, feet, or face due to fluid retention
• Change in urine (darker and foamy urine or blood in the urine)

It’s essential to be attentive and seek medical help if you observe any such symptoms, especially changes in your urine. 

Long-term effects of alcohol on the kidneys

Long-term alcohol use can have significant and lasting effects on the kidneys. One of the primary long-term effects is the development of alcohol-induced kidney disease (12). This condition is characterized by inflammation and scarring on the kidney (13). 

Chronic alcohol use also interferes with the kidney’s ability to maintain blood pressure (14). High blood pressure damages the blood vessels in the kidneys, reducing their efficiency in filtering blood (15). As a result, kidney function deteriorates over time, increasing the risk of developing chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Alcohol use can also promote the kidney-damaging formation of harmful compounds called reactive oxygen species (ROS). 

These compounds may cause oxidative stress and inflammation that damage kidney structures (16, 17, 18). On top of that, oxidative stress can worsen existing kidney problems. If the condition becomes severe, it will ultimately lead to kidney failure. 

Can kidneys recover from alcohol damage?

Kidney failure and alcohol use are often linked, and it seems there’s no turning back once damage is done. 

However, if the damage is detected early and alcohol consumption is stopped, the kidneys may gradually recover and regain their partial or full function (4, 19). 

In addition to the severity of the damage, the kidney’s ability to recover depends on the duration and intensity of alcohol consumption and the individual’s overall health. 

Although the kidneys have a regenerative capacity, there are limits to their recovery. Extended and severe conditions, such as CKD or kidney failure, might be irreversible. Treatment options such as dialysis or kidney transplantation may become necessary (20).

The best approach to protecting kidney health from alcohol-related harm is prevention. Essentially, limiting alcohol consumption is key to reducing the risk of kidney damage. Besides that, adopting a healthy lifestyle like staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and exercising regularly can help support overall kidney function.

Is beer good for your kidneys? If yes, why?

While some might argue that moderate beer consumption could offer certain benefits, it’s important to consider the broader picture. 

Despite claims of potential advantages from moderate consumption, beer can have negative health implications. In fact, its caloric content can contribute to weight gain, a risk factor for kidney disease (21, 22). 

Furthermore, certain compounds found in beer, such as d-amino acids (DAAs), might contribute to elevated uric acid levels in the blood, which can negatively affect kidney function (23). 

Higher uric acid levels increase the risk of gout, a painful condition characterized by inflammation and joint swelling. 

So, the potential kidney health risks associated with beer consumption need careful consideration. It’s always better to avoid drinking any kind of alcohol. 

Red wine and kidney disease: What you should know

Red wine might offer potential health benefits, especially for the heart and kidneys, when you consume it in moderation. Some studies even suggest that red wine may contain health-supporting compounds like resveratrol and antioxidants (24, 25). 

However, the World Heart Federation (WHF) has clarified that no alcohol, including wine, benefits heart health (26). They emphasize that alcohol is linked to health risks regardless of the amount consumed. The previous belief that moderate red wine is beneficial has been debunked. In fact, it has been shown to provide no health benefits (26, 27). 

Therefore, while some might claim that red wine protects the kidneys and overall health, recent research findings suggest this claim needs careful reconsideration. It’s important to note that refraining from alcohol is preferable for overall health and well-being.

Can drinking cause kidney cancer? Risks and preventions

The relationship between alcohol and kidney cancer remains unclear. This is due to various factors that influence the risk of kidney cancer, including the amount and duration of alcohol use, individual responses, and other lifestyle factors. 

Moreover, even if alcohol may help prevent kidney cancer, it can increase the risk of developing other cancers. In particular, studies have shown that alcohol can contribute to liver, breast, and colorectal cancers (28).

There are some measures we can take to prevent kidney cancer. One is limiting alcohol use to moderate amounts. 

According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, moderate drinking is defined as no more than one drink per day for women and no more than two drinks per day for men (29). 

However, The Lancet published a large-scale study that concluded that consumption of alcohol should be no more than 100 grams of alcohol per week (30), much lower than many countries’ current recommendations. Maintaining a healthy diet and engaging in physical activities can reduce the risk of kidney cancer (31, 32). Staying hydrated also helps your kidneys function optimally.