Eating bread daily can be bad for gut health, it could lead to rare condition called auto-brewery syndrome

Bread is a staple in Indian breakfasts, but a wellness expert’s warning about refined carbs and a rare gut condition has reignited debate on digestion, moderation, and personalised nutrition. (Pic credit: Pexels)

• Wellness expert warns bread may affect gut health for some people
• Auto-Brewery Syndrome is rare but linked to gut imbalance and high carb intake
• Experts advise moderation and choosing whole-grain or fermented foods

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Bread continues to be a breakfast favourite in many Indian homes — from buttered toast to jam sandwiches and omelettes. But a recent Instagram post by wellness expert Dr Mickey Mehta has sparked new discussions about its long-term effects on gut health, with a rare medical condition called Auto-Brewery Syndrome (ABS) taking center stage in the debate.

In his video, Dr Mehta asked people to think twice about eating bread, cautioning that regular consumption of refined carbs could harm digestion and gut balance. “If you can’t do without bread every morning, at least try to reduce,” he said, suggesting the inclusion of Isabgol (psyllium husk) at night and in the morning to support digestion.

He also highlighted how deeply bread has become embedded in daily diets. “When I ask people what they had for breakfast, the answer is almost always tea and bread, omelette and bread, jam and bread — sometimes even poha with bread,” he noted, pointing to widespread reliance on the food across households.

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Social Media Reacts

The post got mixed responses online. Some users agreed with the message, pointing out that switching to traditional grains had made their health better. “Real sourdough made from whole flours is healthy,” one user commented, while another said replacing bread with jowar and ragi rotis made a noticeable difference.

Also Read: What happens to your body when you eat a bread-omelette every day and how to make it healthier

Others, however, questioned the claims. Several pointed out that bread is a staple food across many cultures worldwide. “Half the world eats bread,” one user wrote, while another added, “I’ve eaten bread daily and I’m 80 years old with no gut issues.” Many emphasised that dietary tolerance varies from person to person.

What Is Auto-Brewery Syndrome?

Medical websites like WebMD say Auto-Brewery Syndrome, which people also call gut fermentation syndrome, doesn't happen often. It's when your gut turns carbs into ethanol because the tiny living things in there are out of balance. This can make you seem drunk even if you haven't had any alcohol.

The condition involves microorganisms like Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Candida albicans, but others might play a part too. Doctors point out that ABS doesn't come from just one organism. Instead, it happens when the whole mix of tiny gut dwellers gets messed up.

How Common Is It?

ABS has a reputation for being scarce. As of 2021, fewer than 100 cases have been recorded. Yet, specialists think it might occur more often than reported due to limited awareness and symptoms that overlap with other conditions.

Some things might make you more likely to get it. These include eating lots of carbs, having diabetes, drinking alcohol often, taking antibiotics for a long time, having surgery on your digestive system, Crohn's disease, a fatty liver, and your genes. Research also hints that people with ABS often have unhealthy guts and react badly to more foods.

Moderation Over Elimination

Health experts warn against jumping to big conclusions from rare conditions. While bread - the refined kinds - might not be the best choice for everyone, those with sensitive stomachs or metabolic issues, it doesn't put the average person at risk.

Also Read: Ortho surgeon calls this the most dangerous carbohydrate in the world (no, it’s not bread or sugar)

Nutritionists often say it's best to eat in moderation, pick whole-grain or fermented foods, and stick to a well-rounded diet full of fibre, protein, and many different nutrients. Any unexplained symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, or signs resembling intoxication should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

As people talk more about gut health, experts point out that nutrition needs to be tailored to each person — what's good for one might not work for another.

FAQs on Auto-Brewery Syndrome

1. What are the symptoms of Auto-Brewery Syndrome?

Symptoms include dizziness, confusion, mood changes, and signs of intoxication without alcohol consumption.

2. How is Auto-Brewery Syndrome diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves medical history, blood alcohol tests, and monitoring carbohydrate intake and symptoms.

3. Can Auto-Brewery Syndrome be treated?

Treatment may include dietary changes, antifungal medications, and probiotics to restore gut balance.

4. Is Auto-Brewery Syndrome hereditary?

Genetics may play a role, but it is more commonly associated with other risk factors like diet and gut health.

5. Can lifestyle changes help manage Auto-Brewery Syndrome?

Yes, adopting a low-carb diet, avoiding alcohol, and improving gut health can help manage symptoms.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.