Final answer:
Alcohol increases urine output by inhibiting the release of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), leading to less water reabsorption in the kidneys and more frequent urination.
Step-by-step explanation:
Drinking alcoholic beverages causes an increase in urine output chiefly because alcohol inhibits antidiuretic hormone (ADH) release. ADH, also known as vasopressin, is the hormone responsible for regulating water retention in the body, and its inhibition leads to a decrease in water reabsorption in the kidneys. Consequently, more water is excreted, increasing urine production. This effect of alcohol on the kidneys means that the collecting ducts become less permeable to water, which prevents water from being reabsorbed and consequentially increases the volume of urine. Moreover, the higher volume of urine leads to the bladder filling up more quickly and results in a more frequent need to urinate, which is a common experience during alcohol consumption.