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The holidays can be filled with delicious beverages. From sodas to ciders to alcoholic libations, there are so many options to choose from! But which beverages can fit in a kidney-friendly diet when you have chronic kidney disease?
Alcoholic Holiday Beverages and Chronic Kidney Disease
Studies show that consuming light to moderate alcohol when you have CKD is acceptable. However, if you currently do not drink alcohol, it is not recommended that you start. If you have other health conditions as well as CKD, alcohol can be problematic for you. Overall, it’s important to always check with your doctor and healthcare team before consuming alcohol with CKD.
It’s also important to acknowledge that when you have CKD, alcohol can indirectly affect your kidneys. Alcohol can make your heart rate and blood pressure increase, which can negatively affect your heart and kidney health. Alcohol can also dehydrate you, which can affect your kidneys too. If you are on a fluid-restricted diet for your CKD, remember that alcohol also counts as a fluid.
If you are looking to stay hydrated with CKD throughout the holidays, drinking water is key! Staying hydrated with water, sparkling water, seltzer water, or flavored water can help to keep your kidneys happy and healthy. You can read more about how to stay hydrated with CKD here.
Popular Holiday Drinks for Chronic Kidney Disease - Yay or Nay?
Eggnog
Eggnog without the alcohol can be a nice sweet treat to enjoy after your holiday dinner. If you are adding alcohol to your eggnog, take into consideration how much you are consuming.
Hot Cider/Mulled Cider
Cider can be a great beverage for those cold wintery nights. Remember that cider can be a higher-sugar beverage because it often contains apple cider and sugar. Be mindful of your portion size when enjoying cider. You can also look for hot cider recipes with no added sugar like this one here. If you are enjoying alcoholic mulled cider, take into consideration the quantity.
Hot Chocolate
Hot chocolate can be a great sweet ending to a balanced meal, and it can help to satisfy your chocolate cravings. Try opting for a more plant-based hot chocolate, like one made with non-dairy milk if you are on a protein or potassium-restricted diet. Try my favorite hot chocolate recipe here.
Champagne, Wine, Beer, Liquor
Remember, moderation is key here! Studies show that light to moderate consumption of these alcoholic beverages can fit in a kidney-friendly diet, but portion size is important. If you are not drinking these types of beverages now, it is recommended that you not start drinking.
The Bottom Line of Holiday Beverages for Chronic Kidney Disease
Holiday beverages can fit into a kidney-friendly diet with CKD! Opting for non-alcoholic beverages can help to keep your kidneys more hydrated.
With that being said, alcoholic beverages can still be enjoyed, but it’s recommended that they are consumed in moderation and along with balanced meals. Please check with your doctor and healthcare team before consuming alcoholic beverages.