Does beer help pass kidney stones?
Currently dealing with a kidney stone, and it's quite painful. Someone told me that drinking beer helps to pass them. Is there any truth to this? Willing to try anything safe to get rid of it.
Currently dealing with a kidney stone, and it's quite painful. Someone told me that drinking beer helps to pass them. Is there any truth to this? Willing to try anything safe to get rid of it.
Honestly, this is a very common myth in India, but there is no real medical proof that beer helps. Alcohol actually dehydrates you, which can make kidney stones worse in the long run. It is always best to consult a urologist and follow their treatment plan instead of relying on such hacks.
Buying crates of beer will just waste your money and damage your liver. Better to save that amount and spend it on a proper ultrasound scan and doctor's fee first. Getting an accurate diagnosis of the stone size is much cheaper than treating severe complications later in a private hospital.
I went to a specialist at Manipal Hospital when my husband had a 6mm stone, and the doctor strictly told us not to use beer as a remedy. Beer increases uric acid levels, which can actually cause more stones. Please ask your doctor clearly about safe medications that relax the ureter instead of experimenting.
Actually, the only reason people think beer works is because it makes you urinate frequently, but you can achieve the exact same thing with plain water. I track my water intake on my fitness band and aim for 3.5 liters daily. Just drink plenty of water and tender coconut water to flush it out naturally.
I would suggest staying away from alcohol for health issues. Instead of beer, you can try drinking fresh barley water (jowar/jau ka paani) or fresh lemon juice in warm water daily. These are traditional, safe, vegetarian options that help flush out toxins without any bad side effects.
Get the Zerunio health brief
Evidence-based health, reviewed by clinicians. Free, weekly.
Enter your phone number – we’ll text you a one-time code.