Using AUDIT Scores to Identify Synbiotic Supplement Effect in High-Risk Alcoholics

Abstract

Chronic alcohol drinking results in increased intestinal permeability leading to translocation of gut-derived bacterial products. Elevated levels of these products in plasma can induce neuroinflammation probably linking to alcohol’s effects on brain function. Prior literature suggests that administration synbiotic may provide intestinal microbial balance and improve gut health. It may show the capacity to ameliorate brain functions in chronic alcohol drinkers. Twenty-one male patients with Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) score of 8 or above were administered with synbiotic preparation containing seven probiotics species and three prebiotics once a day before bedtime for eight weeks. There were significantly improved total AUDIT scores (p = 0.001), and the data showed significant decreases in scores of the frequency of consuming and blackouts problems from alcohol drinking (p = 0.011 and 0.014, respectively). No other differences were observed between trials (p > 0.05). These findings suggested that synbiotic consumption could improve the alcohol consumption and addiction levels. The synbiotic may help to prevent and treat alcoholic illnesses. Further investigations for the synbiotic supplement effect on the gut–brain axis lessening the degree of alcohol-induced neuroinflammation in high-risk alcoholics should be studied.