Sensitive to Red Wine? Compounds That Might Be Giving You a Headache
If you’ve ever indulged in a glass of red wine only to be met with a throbbing headache soon after, you’re not alone. For many people, red wine can be a trigger for migraines or general head discomfort. But what exactly causes these unpleasant reactions? While some may point fingers at alcohol itself, several specific compounds in red wine could be contributing to these headaches. Understanding these culprits can help you enjoy your favorite wine without the after-effects.
- Histamines
Histamines are naturally occurring compounds in fermented products like red wine. They play a role in immune responses, and for some, they can trigger symptoms such as:
- headaches
- nasal congestion
- rashes
If your body has trouble breaking down histamines due to low levels of the enzyme diamine oxidase (DAO), consuming red wine can lead to an overload, resulting in a headache.
What Can You Do?
If histamines are the issue, you might want to try taking a DAO supplement before drinking red wine or opting for wines that are lower in histamines, such as white wine.
- Tannins
Tannins are polyphenols found in grape skins, seeds, and stems, contributing to the dry and bitter taste of red wine. While they add to the wine’s depth and complexity, they also release serotonin in the brain. For people prone to migraines, an increase in serotonin can trigger a headache.
What Can You Do?
Try wines with lower tannin levels, like Pinot Noir or Merlot, which tend to be smoother and might be less likely to cause headaches compared to fuller-bodied wines like Cabernet Sauvignon.
- Sulfites
Sulfites are used in winemaking as a preservative to prevent spoilage and oxidation. While sulfite sensitivity is rare, it can lead to allergic reactions like headaches, especially in asthmatic individuals. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration requires that wines with more than 10 parts per million (ppm) of sulfites be labeled as containing sulfites, so you can check the label if you suspect this might be your trigger.
What Can You Do?
Look for wines labeled “organic” or “sulfite-free” since these typically contain fewer sulfites. However, note that even natural wines contain small amounts of sulfites, as they are produced during the fermentation process.
- Congeners
Congeners are chemical byproducts produced during the fermentation process that give wine its flavor and color. Darker alcoholic drinks, like red wine, contain more congeners than lighter drinks, which may explain why some people experience more intense headaches with red wine compared to white wine or other types of alcohol.
What Can You Do?
Switching to lighter wines or clear spirits with fewer congeners, such as vodka or gin, may help reduce the likelihood of a headache. Also, drinking plenty of water before, during, and after consuming alcohol can help flush these compounds from your system more quickly.
- Sugar and Alcohol Content
Alcohol itself is a diuretic, which can lead to dehydration—a well-known cause of headaches. When you mix alcohol with sugar, as is common in many wines, this effect can be magnified. The sugar spikes your blood sugar levels, and as your body works to metabolize it, you may experience a sudden drop, leading to a headache.
What Can You Do?
Stick to wines with lower sugar content, like dry reds, and ensure you’re staying hydrated by alternating between sips of wine and water. Avoiding sweet wines and keeping your alcohol intake moderate can reduce your chances of experiencing wine-related headaches.
Is It Time to Give Up Red Wine?
Before you swear off red wine entirely, consider testing how you react to different types. Some wines are less likely to contain high levels of headache-inducing compounds. Keeping a wine journal can help you track which wines cause headaches and which don’t. Also, drinking in moderation and staying well-hydrated are simple yet effective ways to enjoy wine with fewer side effects.
See the full scientific article from Everyday Health.
By choosing your wine carefully and paying attention to your body’s reactions, you can find options that are kinder to your system, allowing you to savor your glass of red without the dreaded headache.
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