Alcoholism and Taste Preferences

Baylee Leonhardt & Kristina Lewandowski

Introduction
Alcoholism or alcohol dependence is a condition in which
the individual has lost control over his/her drinking or is
unable to refrain from drinking at all. Years of binge
drinking and other factors can lead to a more disordered
alcohol pattern such as alcoholism. These factors include
a mixture of environmental, genetic and nutrition. A
recently new finding shows that higher sugar preferences
can also be a factor in the development of alcoholism.
The reason for this is because of the similar mechanisms
in the brain that are effected when both alcohol and
sugar are consumed.

Genetic Influences

Summary

Altered dopamine receptors as well as genes that affect personality

characteristics are common traits that are seen in alcoholics.
Studies have shown that these genes effect the development of
alcoholism in families with a history of alcohol dependence. (2)

Recently, a connection between alcohol intake and dietary

preferences has been seen. More specifically, high sugared
diets are preferred by those suffering with alcohol addiction.
The reasoning to this is the connection between the
dopamine D2 gene and its A1 allele. These genes help
regulate the bodys normal reward system. The functioning of
these genes are found to be imbalanced in alcoholics as well
as individuals who have a high sugar craving. These
individuals are genetically predisposed to these conditions.
Both a high sugar diet and high consumption of alcohol can
lead to life-threatening circumstances.

Individuals with a family history of alcoholism, but do not suffer

from alcohol addiction, have higher levels of dopamine 2
receptors.
Those that inherited lower levels of this gene are involved with
substance abuse problems.
Similar genes have shown a relationship between higher sugar
intake. With a high sugar diet, dopamine levels respond similarly
to those that suffer from alcohol addiction. (3)

1 drink equals:

Individuals with a positive family history of alcoholism have a

three times higher risk of preferring sweeter solutions in food.

12 oz.
beer

5 oz.
wine

Clinical Application
Prevention of alcoholism includes behavioral, social, and
nutritional aspects.
Get counseling from a dietitian about healthier food
choices and lowering sugar and alcohol consumption

1.5 oz.
liquor

Intake of vitamin C and protein to aid in hormone and

brain function (7)

Link Between Alcoholism

& Taste Preferences

Supplement with Vitamin B & antioxidants (7)

The A1 allele in the dopamine D2 receptor has been seen

to have the greatest impact on the bodys reward system
pertaining to alcohol and sugar intake. (1)
In severe alcoholics, 70% contained the A1 allele

(1)

Improper function of the allele and dopamine

receptors cause an imbalanced reward system in the
brain.
Cravings of sugar sweetened foods have been seen in
alcohol addiction because of this similar mechanism
within the brain.
These genetic components are most often inherited
from parents.

Effects on the Body

High sugar intake and alcohol abuse can result in many health
concerns.

Alcoholism (4)

High Sugar Diet

Short & long term effects:

Pneumonia
Tuberculosis
Nutrition Deficiencies
Stroke
High Blood Pressure
Liver Disease
Cancer

Short & long term effects: (5,6)

Mood Swings
Nutrient Imbalances
Obesity
Cardiovascular Disease
Diabetes
High Blood Pressure
Metabolic Syndrome

Annual check up for hormone levels and lab values if at

risk for alcoholism
If at high risk for development of this disease, refer to a
doctor about possible medication
Surround yourself in a positive environment