What is auto-brewery syndrome?

SPEAKER_1 (0:00)

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What is Auto Brewery Syndrome? Thanks for asking.

Imagine being drunk without having drunk a single drop of alcohol. It seems completely implausible, and yet for some, it's a reality. Southwest Media shared the story of a motorist who appeared in court in Bruges in 2022 after being found to have too much alcohol in his blood twice in the same year. The man, in his 40s, was eventually acquitted, proving that the tests were not the result of a night of drinking but rather of Auto Brewery Syndrome. What is it? Auto Brewery Syndrome, also known as Intestinal Fermentation Syndrome, is when your body turns into a mini brewery. Professor Alvarez, co-author of an analysis published on the subject in December 2020, says it's when carbs ferment into ethanol right inside of your gut thanks to yeast. Normally, our gut yeast can't brew enough booze to affect us, but for those with Auto Brewery Syndrome, it's a different story. They've got an overabundance of yeast, and when too much sugar is consumed, it ferments into alcohol, leading to drunkenness. And what are the consequences?

It's like having a never-ending hangover. Headaches, exhaustion, tummy trouble, nausea, and a telltale, boozy breath. But over time, the consequences can be very serious, leading to psoriasis, hypertension, cancer or hepatitis. In essence, Auto Brewery Syndrome can turn lives upside down, as it's tough proving to people that you don't have a secret drinking problem. It can result in strained relationships, problems at work, and can even lead to erratic behaviour or even aggression. Can it be treated?

There are ways of limiting its effects. People suffering from Auto Brewery Syndrome should try to avoid carbohydrate-rich foods as much as possible. It's also possible to take antifungal medication to regulate the presence of yeast in the microbiota. Some patients may also require addiction treatment, as they may develop a dependency on the ethanol produced by their bodies. It should be noted that cases of Auto Brewery Syndrome are very rare, affecting only a handful of people worldwide. There you have it.

Now you know what Auto Brewery Syndrome is. In under three minutes, we answer your questions and help you understand the true meaning behind the trends, concepts and acronyms that are making headlines. Listen along and you really will know for sure.

SPEAKER_3 (3:22)

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