A Belgian man has been cleared of drunk-driving charges due to his diagnosis of auto-brewery syndrome (ABS), a highly uncommon condition in which the body naturally generates alcohol.
On Monday, Anse Ghesquiere stated that her client, who worked at a brewery, was confirmed to have auto-brewery syndrome (ABS) by three independent doctors. The Belgian media reported that the judge, in the verdict, highlighted that the defendant, who was not identified to local legal practices, did not display signs of intoxication.
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According to Lisa Florin, a clinical biologist at the Belgian hospital AZ Sint-Lucas, individuals with auto-brewery syndrome (ABS) produce the same type of alcohol found in alcoholic beverages, but typically experience reduced effects. ABS is not a condition people are born with, but can develop when they already have an existing intestinal issue. Symptoms may include slurred speech, stumbling, impaired motor skills, dizziness, and belching, resembling those of alcohol intoxication.
The cause of auto-brewery syndrome is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to an overgrowth of yeast in the digestive system. When yeast in the gut ferment sugars and carbohydrates, they produce ethanol, which is the type of alcohol found in beer, wine, and spirits. This excess ethanol is then absorbed into the bloodstream and can cause symptoms of intoxication.
One of the challenges of diagnosing auto-brewery syndrome is that the symptoms can mimic other medical conditions, such as liver disease or diabetes. However, there are specific tests that can be done to confirm the presence of elevated blood alcohol levels in individuals suspected of having the condition.
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Treatment for auto-brewery syndrome typically involves a combination of dietary changes and medication. Patients are often advised to follow a low-carbohydrate diet to reduce the amount of fermentable substances in the gut. Additionally, antifungal medications may be prescribed to help control the overgrowth of yeast in the digestive system.
Living with auto-brewery syndrome can be challenging, as it can impact a person’s ability to function normally in their daily life. For example, individuals with the condition may struggle to hold down a job or maintain relationships due to the unpredictable nature of their symptoms. They may also face stigma and disbelief from others who do not understand the complexities of the condition.
The post Belgian Man Who Lives With Rare Condition Cleared Of Drunk Driving Charges Because His Body Produces Alcohol On Its Own appeared first on Hollywood Unlocked .
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