Scientists Finally Figured Out How Some People Get Drunk Without Drinking
Have you ever heard of someone getting drunk without drinking any alcohol? It sounds like an urban legend, but it’s a real phenomenon that has puzzled scientists for years. Recently, a team of researchers finally cracked the code, and their findings are fascinating.
What is Auto-Brewery Syndrome?
Auto-Brewery Syndrome (ABS) is a rare condition where the body produces ethanol, the same type of alcohol found in beer and wine, without consuming any alcoholic beverages. This condition is also known as “gut fermentation syndrome” or “endogenous ethanol production.”
| Condition | Description |
|---|---|
| Auto-Brewery Syndrome | A rare condition where the body produces ethanol without consuming any alcoholic beverages. |
| Gut Fermentation Syndrome | A condition where the gut produces ethanol due to an overgrowth of yeast or bacteria. |
| Endogenous Ethanol Production | A condition where the body produces ethanol naturally, without any external sources. |
How Does ABS Work?
When we eat, our body breaks down the carbohydrates into simple sugars, which are then absorbed into the bloodstream. In people with ABS, the sugars are not fully absorbed and instead, they become a food source for yeast or bacteria in the gut. This yeast or bacteria ferments the sugars, producing ethanol as a byproduct.
The ethanol is then absorbed into the bloodstream, causing the person to feel drunk, even if they haven’t consumed any alcohol. This condition can be debilitating, as the person may experience symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, and difficulty walking, without any apparent reason.
What Are the Symptoms of ABS?
The symptoms of ABS can vary from person to person, but they often include:
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
- Difficulty walking or standing
- Slurred speech
- Memory loss or blackout
How Is ABS Diagnosed?
Diagnosing ABS can be challenging, as the symptoms are similar to those of alcohol intoxication. However, a team of researchers from the University of Texas has developed a test that can detect the presence of ethanol in the bloodstream, even if the person hasn’t consumed any alcohol.
How Is ABS Treated?
Treating ABS typically involves a combination of antibiotics and diet changes. The antibiotics help to reduce the overgrowth of yeast or bacteria in the gut, while the diet changes help to reduce the amount of sugar available for fermentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: What causes Auto-Brewery Syndrome?
A: ABS is caused by an overgrowth of yeast or bacteria in the gut, which ferments sugars and produces ethanol. - Q: Is ABS contagious?
A: No, ABS is not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person. - Q: Can ABS be cured?
A: Yes, ABS can be treated and cured with a combination of antibiotics and diet changes. - Q: How common is ABS?
A: ABS is a rare condition, affecting only a small percentage of the population. - Q: Can ABS be prevented?
A: Yes, ABS can be prevented by maintaining a healthy gut microbiome and avoiding excessive sugar consumption. - Q: What are the risks of ABS?
A: The risks of ABS include dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and increased risk of accidents and injuries. - Q: Can ABS be misdiagnosed?
A: Yes, ABS can be misdiagnosed as alcohol intoxication or other conditions, leading to delayed or incorrect treatment. - Q: How long does it take to recover from ABS?
A: The recovery time from ABS can vary, but most people can recover within a few weeks of treatment. - Q: Can ABS recur?
A: Yes, ABS can recur if the underlying cause is not addressed, such as an overgrowth of yeast or bacteria in the gut. - Q: Is ABS a sign of an underlying medical condition?
A: Yes, ABS can be a sign of an underlying medical condition, such as diabetes, Crohn’s disease, or other gut disorders.
Image Credit: Gizmodo
