This Is How Your Body May Be Brewing Its Own Alcohol And Making You Drunk

A few days ago, a DUI (driving under the influence) case against a New York woman was overturned by a US court, because even though she had been extremely drunk while driving, she hadn’t consumed any significant amounts of alcohol in the hours before.

How, might you ask, is that possible? And why, would, you also may add, is a woman who obviously hired a brilliant lawyer who negotiated legal gimmicks any concern of yours? The answer to both those questions is a condition known as the auto brewery syndrome or gut fermentation syndrome.

The woman’s lawyer argued (and medical information states) that the syndrome causes an excessive production of yeast, triggered by regular food. This yeast ferments in the small intestines, producing body-made alcohol that is then absorbed into the blood stream and makes the individual drunk.

While it may seem like a great condition to have for a person who loves the feeling of being intoxicated, we’re sure we don’t need to tell you the condition is extremely dangerous. Side effects of the condition include the side effects of drinking; hangovers, headaches, nausea, irritation and chronic fatigue. Because of its unpredictability, an individual suffering from the syndrome may also have trouble in the workplace or social settings.

Because the condition is relatively rare, most cases go undetected for a long time. If it sounds familiar, we suggest you pay a visit to your doctor. Otherwise, store the information about the condition in your repertoire of little known alcohol facts.