St. Patrick’s Day is coming up and that can mean good times with corned beef, cabbage and possibly booze.  Before you imbibe, here are a few facts about alcohol consumption and kidney disease.

• Alcohol causes changes in the function of the kidneys and makes them less able to filter the blood.
• Alcohol also affects the ability to regulate fluid and electrolytes in the body. When alcohol dehydrates (dries out) the body, the drying effect can affect the normal function of cells and organs, including the kidneys.
• Too much alcohol can also affect your blood pressure. People who drink too much are more likely to have high blood pressure. And medications for high blood pressure can be affected by alcohol.
• More than two drinks a day can increase your chance of developing high blood pressure.
• Drinking alcohol in these amounts is a risk factor for developing a sign of kidney disease, protein in the urine (albuminuria).

You can still celebrate St. Patty’s Day with the traditional food!  Check out this recipe for corned beef and cabbage!  “Uncorn” your beef by using fresh ingredients instead of a flavor packet.  Sláinte!

Source: National Kidney Foundation & NxStage