how does alcohol affect the kidneys

This section collects any data citations, data availability statements, or supplementary materials included in this article. Draw the initial manuscript, and all authors reviewed and approved the final manuscript. In general, the proximal part of the small intestine is the main site for alcohol absorption.

Limitations of Existing Studies

Hepatorenal syndrome, which is secondary to alcoholic hepatitis 65, and acute kidney injury, secondary to rhabdomyolysis, also cannot be ignored 46. Another noteworthy problem is alcohol consumption in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). In recent years, CKD has become one of the most serious global public health problems. Recent studies estimated that CKD affects about 119.5 million people worldwide 10,11.

How Alcohol Affects Your Kidney Health

how does alcohol affect the kidneys

Although most of the alcohol is metabolized in the liver, the kidneys are equally important in the metabolism and excretion alcohol and kidneys of ethyl alcohol. Some enzymes that are necessary for ethanol metabolism, such as alcohol dehydrogenase, CYP2E1, and CYP24A1, have been found in the kidneys 22,23. Furthermore, approximately 10% of ingested ethanol is excreted by the kidneys in its original form 21. Therefore, excessive alcohol consumption places a major strain on the normal metabolic processes of the kidneys. Chronic kidney disease occurs when the kidneys are damaged and unable to function correctly.

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how does alcohol affect the kidneys

Acute kidney failure or acute kidney injury is rare but it can occur with binge drinking, and usually can be corrected. Permanent damage to your kidneys happens with regular heavy drinking over time. The amount of time that it takes for kidneys to become damaged depends on genetics, the amount of alcohol consumed, Twelve-step program and many other factors. Binge drinking (usually more than four to five drinks within two hours) can raise a person’s blood alcohol to dangerous levels.

how does alcohol affect the kidneys

How Ecstasy Can Affect the Renal and Urinary System

how does alcohol affect the kidneys

Besides that, adopting a healthy lifestyle like staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and exercising regularly can help support overall kidney function. The kidneys are one of several ways the body controls blood pressure. As pressure rises, the kidneys can reduce blood pressure by removing some of the blood’s volume. The kidneys are very sensitive to pressure changes, and big swings in blood pressure or prolonged high blood pressure can damage them. Alcohol causes an initial dip in blood pressure that quickly elevates, leading to high blood pressure =https://ecosoberhouse.com/ for several hours after drinking. Binge drinking can cause severe increases in blood pressure, while heavy drinking over time causes chronically high blood pressure.

  • Ethanol administration in rats showed particular alterations in the renal antioxidant system and glutathione status 4,5.
  • IgA deposits may accumulate in the kidney, leading to glomerulopathy.
  • Excessive consumption of several beverages can be harmful to the kidneys.
  • In addition to causing dehydration, alcohol increases blood pressure by causing blood vessels to constrict.

Additionally, the drinking pattern, integral dose of alcohol consumption, differences in alcohol beverages, and various concomitant factors should be considered, as they have a significant influence on the effects of alcohol consumption. Physically, the kidneys have several enzymes with antioxidant capacities, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase, which can balance various oxidative processes. Several studies have demonstrated that alcohol consumption increases ROS generation, which contributes to lipid peroxidation and damages antioxidant capacity 34,35.

  • Logistic regression analysis for decreased estimated glomerular filtration rate (75 events / 150 participants).
  • They respond to high blood pressure by removing fluid from the blood, which decreases its volume and the pressure it causes.
  • It can have detrimental health impacts even when consumed at low levels.

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