Can patients with impaired liver or kidney function drink whole wheat beer?
Feb 13, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Guang
Introduction
Whole grain beer contains a certain amount of alcohol. Patients with impaired liver function already have compromised detoxification and metabolic capacity in the liver. Consuming alcohol further burdens the liver, causing additional damage to liver cells and potentially worsening the condition. Long-term or excessive alcohol consumption may also lead to severe liver diseases such as cirrhosis and fatty liver disease.
Generally, individuals with impaired liver or kidney function are not advised to drink whole wheat beer. The analysis is as follows:
Whole wheat beer contains a certain amount of alcohol. Patients with impaired liver function already have compromised detoxification and metabolic capabilities in the liver. Consuming alcohol further burdens the liver, potentially worsening liver cell damage and aggravating the condition. Long-term or excessive alcohol consumption may also lead to severe liver diseases such as cirrhosis and fatty liver disease.
The kidneys are the primary organs responsible for alcohol excretion. After entering the body, alcohol is metabolized by the liver into harmful substances such as acetaldehyde, which must be eliminated through the kidneys. For patients with impaired kidney function, consuming alcohol further strains the kidneys and may worsen kidney disease. Additionally, alcohol may cause constriction of kidney blood vessels, affecting renal blood circulation and thereby exacerbating kidney damage.
Patients with impaired liver and kidney function should follow a diet low in protein, salt, and fat, and high in vitamins, avoiding excessive intake of foods and medications harmful to the liver and kidneys. At the same time, maintaining adequate sleep, engaging in moderate exercise, and cultivating a positive mindset can also help improve the condition and promote recovery.
