5 of the Best Alcohols to Drink for People with Kidney Disease

When it comes to kidney disease keeping track of what you drink is essential to your health. Proper hydration is vital especially for those with kidney disease. It’s generally known that alcohol can harm the kidneys. However not all alcoholic beverages are equal in this respect. Some are better for kidney disease than others. Here are five types of alcohol that people with kidney disease can drink safely:

1. Red Wine
Red wine is rich in resveratrol an antioxidant that might improve the kidney function of those with chronic kidney disease. In moderation red wine can also decrease your risk of heart disease stroke both of which can be more prevalent in those with kidney disease.

2. Vodka
Vodka when mixed in moderation such as with seltzer or other non-sugar non-caffeinated beverages is a good option for people with kidney disease. Vodka is one of the purest types of alcohol which means it contains minimal congeners chemicals that can cause headaches queasiness other symptoms in some individuals.

3. Gin
Gin is low in congeners mixes well with non-sugar non-caffeinated drinks such as diet tonic water making it a good choice for individuals with kidney disease. Some gins are infused with antioxidants like juniper berries which can help to boost liver kidney function.

4. Beer
Beer may have diuretic properties but drinking it in moderation has been associated with decreased risk of kidney disease in some studies. However beer should be consumed in moderation with a cautious eye on its alcohol content. Drinking beer may lead to increased calorie intake weight gain both of which are risk factors for kidney disease.

5. Tequila
Finally tequila is relatively low in congeners making it a great option for kidney disease sufferers. However like with all alcoholic beverages moderation is essential when consuming tequila.

Conclusion
All alcohol should be drunk in moderation but for people with kidney disease selecting the correct type of alcohol is crucial. Red wine vodka gin beer tequila can all be consumed in moderation without adversely affecting kidney function. Enjoy responsibly always consult with your doctor to ensure your current kidney health is appropriate for the consumption of alcohol.

What is Kidney Disease?

Kidney disease is a condition that affects not only the kidneys but also the body’s ability to rid itself of waste products. The kidneys function to remove waste excess fluid from the body control electrolyte balance regulate blood pressure. When the kidneys aren’t working correctly waste fluid buildup in the body can cause many health problems. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a long-term condition that progresses over time impairing kidney function.

Why Is Alcohol Bad for Kidneys?

Alcohol is a diuretic which means that it causes the kidneys to produce more urine. Alcohol also dehydrates the body which can put strain on the kidneys’ ability to filter waste products. Additionally excess alcohol consumption can cause harm to the liver liver problems can impair kidney function.

What Are the Health Benefits of Drinking Alcohol?

Moderate alcohol consumption can reduce the risk of heart disease stroke improve insulin sensitivity increase good cholesterol (HDL) levels. Additionally some studies have shown that moderate alcohol consumption can decrease the risk of chronic kidney disease.

What Is Moderate Alcohol Consumption?

Moderate alcohol consumption is one drink per day for women two drinks per day for men where a drink is a 12-ounce beer 5-ounce glass of wine or 1.5-ounce shot of liquor. It’s important to note that binge drinking consuming a large amount of alcohol in a single sitting can place one at greater risk of health problems including kidney damage.