A Belgian man charged with drunk driving was recently acquitted after it was found that he suffers from a rare medical condition known as Auto-Brewery Syndrome (ABS). In this condition, the body produces alcohol without even drinking a drop of alcohol. It sounds almost fictional and may even sound appealing to some, but it is a serious condition that can take a huge toll on a person’s health.
To understand more about this disease, the Onlymyhealth team spoke to Dr Uday Sanglodkar, Senior Consultant, Hepatologist and Clinical Lead, Liver and Transplant ICU, Gleneagles Hospitals, Parel.
What Is Auto-Brewery Syndrome?
Auto Brewery Syndrome (ABS) is also known as gut fermentation syndrome, said Dr Uday, adding that it “is a rare disease in which gut microbiota goes haywire and causes high levels of alcohol in the body.”
A study published in ACG Case Reports Journal defines ABS as a condition where the digestive system produces excessive amounts of ethanol (alcohol) due to an overgrowth of yeast or fungi, typically in the gut. This can lead to a person feeling intoxicated without consuming alcohol externally.
He explained, “There are two types of bacteria in the gut, namely Candida and Saccharomyces. These bacteria break down dietary sugar and carbohydrates in the body. In the case of auto-brewery syndrome, these bacteria ferment sugar and carbohydrates into alcohol.” This means that people suffering from ABS will get as drunk as much carbohydrate or sugar they consume.
Symptoms of Auto-Brewery Syndrome
Dr Uday said, “Symptoms of auto-brewery syndrome mimic those of alcohol intoxication to such a level that even their breath stinks of alcohol.” He stated that ABS usually starts in middle age to old age. The symptoms of ABS can vary from person to person but often include:
- Feeling intoxicated or drunk without consuming alcohol.
- Fluctuating blood alcohol levels despite abstaining from alcohol.
- Slurred speech.
- Fatigue, brain fog, or confusion.
- Digestive issues such as bloating, gas, or diarrhoea.
- Mood swings or changes in behaviour.
What Causes Auto-Brewery Syndrome?
Dr Uday said, “The exact cause of ABS is not known.” As per a study led by Panola College and Stony Brook University Hospital, auto-brewery syndrome is not congenital but can develop in individuals with pre-existing intestinal issues. Several factors can contribute to the development of ABS:
- Yeast Overgrowth: Candida or other yeast species can proliferate in the gut, fermenting carbohydrates into alcohol.
- Antibiotic Use: Prolonged antibiotic use can disrupt the balance of gut flora, leading to yeast overgrowth.
- Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes can create an environment conducive to yeast growth.
- High Carbohydrate Diet: Excessive consumption of carbohydrates can provide yeast with the fuel they need to thrive.
- Gastrointestinal Disorders: Conditions like Crohn's disease or leaky gut syndrome may increase the risk of ABS.
The case of the Belgian man acquitted of drunk driving due to Auto-Brewery Syndrome sheds light on the complexities of this rare medical condition. It underscores the importance of understanding ABS and its impact on individuals' lives, highlighting the need for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management strategies.