20 Surprising Factors That Can Harm Your Kidneys

2. Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol, a socially accepted substance, can have detrimental effects on kidney function. As a depressant, alcohol slows down brain activity, affecting its communication processes. Regular alcohol consumption heightens the risk of high blood pressure and diabetes, both of which can precede kidney disease and ultimately lead to kidney failure. While moderate alcohol intake is generally considered safe for healthy kidneys, individuals with existing kidney problems may experience significant damage.

Excessive alcohol consumption carries other harmful consequences as well. A study published in the Nephrology Dialysis Transplantation Journal discusses the relationship between alcohol and the potential development of chronic kidney disease. Besides kidney damage, excessive alcohol intake also increases the risk of hypertension and stroke.

The National Kidney Foundation advises against consuming more than four alcoholic drinks per day, as it can adversely affect overall health and exacerbate kidney disease. Although further research is needed to fully understand the correlation between high alcohol consumption and kidney disease, it is prudent to limit alcohol intake to protect kidney health.