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Published on: 5/21/2025

How Does Alcohol Consumption Affect Urine Output?

Jason Wilt

Reviewed by Jason Wilt, MD

Sports Medicine

Alcohol can make you pee more because it affects how your body handles fluids.

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Explanation

Alcohol consumption can lead to increased urine output because it affects the body's fluid balance. When you drink alcohol, it can interfere with the hormone that helps your body hold onto water. This hormone is called antidiuretic hormone (ADH). Without enough ADH, your body doesn't hold onto water as well, so you end up peeing more.

Here's how it works:

  • Alcohol blocks ADH: When alcohol is in your system, it can block the release of ADH.
  • Less ADH means more pee: With less ADH, your kidneys don't hold onto water as much, so you make more urine.
  • Dehydration risk: Because you're peeing more, you might get dehydrated if you don't drink enough water.

It's important to remember that staying hydrated is key. If you're drinking alcohol, make sure to also drink water to help keep your body in balance.

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