A drinking and driving incident in Belgium has left the police, the court, lawyers and even Netizens puzzled. A man was caught drinking and driving. However, on closely examining the case, he hadn’t consumed any alcohol. he was totally sober. It was then discovered that he suffered from auto-brewery syndrome (ABS). Read on to learn more about this rare health condition.
Belgian Man Caught For Drinking & Driving Despite Not Consuming A Drop Of Alcohol
According to a report by CNN, Anse Ghesquiere stated to Reuters that her client, a Belgian man once again had an unfortunate coincidence. She stated that the man worked at a brewery. He was caught by the police for drinking and driving. Later when three doctors independently examined him they confirmed he suffered from ABS.
When the issue was taken to court, the judge emphasised that the defendant (unnamed) did not experience any symptoms of intoxication. The Bruges police court which acquitted the man hasn’t replied to the media yet. Anse Ghesquiere stated her client suffers from auto-brewery syndrome where his body produces alcohol. Lisa Florin, a clinical biologist stated to The Guardian that while the bodies of people with ABS produce the same alcohol as those found in alcoholic drinks, they usually feel less effects.
He Suffers From Auto-Brewery Syndrome
Also, people aren’t born with ABS. This syndrome happens when they suffer from an intestine-related condition. Patients may have symptoms similar to alcohol intoxication like stumbling, loss of motor functions, dizziness, belching and slurred speech. This man’s body creates ethanol after he consumes sugary or starchy food. So, treatment includes reducing carbohydrates in one’s diet and also ingesting antifungal medication.
This is not the first time the man was convicted of drinking and driving. As per ABC News, he was convicted in 2019 of the same and was given a fine. His license was suspended despite his sincere protests to the police that he hadn’t consumed any alcohol.
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Well, now that you know about this rare condition, did this pique your interest?
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