351 - Drinking in the Dark (DID): A Mouse Model of Keto Influenced Binge-Like Alcohol Intake in the C57BL/6J Mice

Binge drinking is a widespread problem that can have serious consequences for health and social behavior. Previous studies have shown that a ketogenic diet (KD) can reduce alcohol intake in rodents, but the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. In this study, we used C57BL/6J mice to investigate the effect of a high fat KD diet on binge-like alcohol intake, and to determine if this intervention could lead to long-term changes in drinking behavior. Our results demonstrate that mice on a KD diet consumed less alcohol compared to those on a standard diet. Interestingly, female mice were found to be more susceptible to binge drinking than males, regardless of diet. Additionally, our findings suggest that a KD diet may produce lasting effects of drinking aversion, as mice on this diet consumed less alcohol even after being returned to a standard diet. Our study provides insights into the relationship between diet and alcohol intake and highlights the potential of a KD diet as a therapeutic intervention for individuals struggling with binge drinking. These findings suggest that dietary interventions may offer a promising strategy for reducing alcohol consumption in humans.