Auto Brewery syndrome is also known as gut fermentation syndrome. As the name signifies fungi present in the gut convert carbohydrates into alcohol or ethanol. Since it’s a rare syndrome, researchers are still working on it to gather more understanding. The ethanol or alcohol produced due to fungal fermentation enters the bloodstream and starts creating symptoms that appear in a drunk individual. 

The first case of auto brewery syndrome came into light in the 1950s. It can affect both adults as well as children and gets accompanied with dizziness, fatigue, mood changes, slurred speech, vomiting, nausea, headache, loss of coordination etc.

What causes auto-brewery syndrome?

Gastrointestinal diseases or microbiome imbalances are the underlying conditions due to which there is fermentation in the gut of some individuals. Certain medical conditions increase the chances of developing auto-brewery syndrome like irritable bowel syndrome, bacterial growth in small intestine, obesity, diabetes, Crohn’s disease, low immunity levels, and long term or frequent use of antibiotics leading to fungal overgrowth. People prone to this syndrome generally indulge in high carbohydrate and high sugar diets. 

Treatment of auto-brewery syndrome 

Dietary changes are the best treatment options for the syndrome. Doctors advise to restrict carbohydrate intake. In order to feel fuller, patients are advised to increase protein in their diet. White rice, white bread, pastries, desserts, pasta, sugary beverages are best to be avoided. Antifungals are prescribed by doctors to treat the fungal overgrowth or fungal infections of the gut. Depending upon the severity of the disease, stronger treatment options can be adopted by the doctors. Since it is a very rare condition, treatment under doctor’s supervision should never be avoided.