Does Alcoholism Cause Osteoporosis?

Does Alcoholism Cause Osteoporosis?

It’s a common question: can drinking alcohol lead to osteoporosis?

The short answer is that yes, alcoholism can cause osteoporosis. While moderate drinking (up to two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women) is actually associated with a lower risk of osteoporosis, excessive drinking can have the opposite effect.

Alcoholism can cause osteoporosis for a few different reasons. First, alcoholics are more likely to have deficiencies in key nutrients like vitamin D and calcium that are essential for healthy bones. Second, heavy drinking can lead to increased urination, which causes the body to lose important minerals like calcium.

Finally, alcohol abuse can damage the liver, which is responsible for producing a hormone that helps regulate bone growth. When the liver is damaged, it can’t produce this hormone properly, which can lead to bone loss.

If you’re struggling with alcoholism, get help before it’s too late. Excessive drinking can lead to serious health problems like osteoporosis, so get treatment today.

When you're ready, we're here to listen.

Free & Confidential Alcohol Abuse Hotline

Medically Reviewed By:

Robert Gerchalk

Robert is our health care professional reviewer of this website. He worked for many years in mental health and substance abuse facilities in Florida, as well as in home health (medical and psychiatric), and took care of people with medical and addictions problems at The Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore. He has a nursing and business/technology degrees from The Johns Hopkins University.

Our Mission

Our goal is to raise awareness for alcoholism. As recovering alcoholics ourselves we know how hard it is to find reliable, and free resources to help yourself or a loved one. This website does just that. If you want to talk, getting help for alcoholism is only a phone call away. Our free alcohol abuse hotline is available 24/7.

Recent Posts:

Helpful Information:

Understanding Alcoholism

This guide on understanding alcoholism for families today will help you in your quest to find solutions and get your loved one the help they need.

Questions or Feedback?