Alcohol and Chronic Kidney Disease

Alcohol and Chronic Kidney Disease: What You Should Know

If you have chronic kidney disease (CKD), it’s important to understand how alcohol can affect your health. While it may seem harmless to enjoy an occasional drink, alcohol can impact your kidneys—and your overall health—in ways you might not expect.

Should I Drink Alcohol If I Have Kidney Disease?

If you don’t drink, don’t start.

Despite popular myths, alcohol does not offer health benefits. If you’ve never been a drinker, there’s no reason to begin now.

Some people should not drink alcohol at all, including:

• Anyone under the legal drinking age
• Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant
• People with liver disease or pancreatitis
• Those taking medications that interact with alcohol
• Anyone in recovery from addiction
• People with uncontrolled diabetes or high blood pressure

If You Choose to Drink: What “Moderation” Means

If your doctor says it’s safe for you to drink alcohol occasionally, moderation is key. The general guideline for adults of legal drinking age is:

• Men: Up to 2 drinks per day
• Women: Up to 1 drink per day

One standard drink equals:

• 12 ounces of beer (5% alcohol) – about 150 calories
• 5 ounces of wine (12% alcohol) – about 120 calories
• 1.5 ounces of spirits (40% alcohol) – about 100 calories

Mixed drinks can have even more calories and sugar—watch out for sodas, juices, and flavored syrups that get added in.

How Alcohol Affects People with CKD

Alcohol doesn’t directly damage the kidneys in small amounts, but it can:

• Raise blood pressure, one of the top causes of kidney disease • Worsen blood sugar control in people with diabetes
• Add extra calories and sugar that make healthy eating harder • Lead to dehydration, which can strain kidney function
• Interact with medications, including those for high blood pressure or diabetes

For people working hard to stick to a kidney-friendly diet, alcohol can be a roadblock to success.

Smart Drinking Tips (If You Choose to Drink)

If your healthcare provider says it's okay to have the occasional drink, these tips can help you stay in control:

• Eat first. A balanced meal before drinking helps prevent low blood sugar, especially if you have diabetes.
• Hydrate between drinks. Drink a full glass of water for every alcoholic beverage.
• Slow down. Sip slowly and enjoy the company, not just the drink. • Pay attention. Notice how you feel before, during, and after drinking. • Watch your portions. Mixed drinks often exceed “one drink” in volume and calories.
• Avoid salty snacks. Alcohol can increase cravings for chips, pretzels, or processed foods—foods that are often high in sodium and phosphorus.

The Bottom Line

Drinking alcohol with CKD is not automatically off-limits—but it’s not risk-free either. Always talk with your provider of Renal Specialists of Houston before including alcohol in your routine. A few small choices can help protect your kidneys and your health for the long run!