Does Wine Give You a Headache?

Wine has been enjoyed for centuries, but for some people, a glass of wine can lead to a headache. While wine is considered a healthy drink in moderation, it can also cause headaches for some people. In this article, we’ll discuss the reasons why wine gives some people headaches and what can be done to avoid or minimize them.

Alcohol Dehydration: One of the main reasons why wine can give people headaches is due to alcohol dehydration. Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it increases the production of urine and can lead to dehydration. Dehydration can cause headaches, especially if you drink wine in large quantities. To avoid this, it is recommended to drink plenty of water along with wine to stay hydrated.

Histamine and Tyramine Content: Another reason why wine can cause headaches is due to the presence of histamine and tyramine. These are naturally occurring compounds found in wine that can trigger headaches in some people. Some red wines, especially those that have been aged for a longer period, have higher levels of histamine and tyramine. If you are sensitive to these compounds, it is best to stick with white wines or choose a wine that has been produced with low histamine and tyramine.

Sulfites: Sulfites are preservatives that are commonly added to wine to prevent spoilage. They are also responsible for causing headaches in some people. If you are sulfite-sensitive, it is best to choose wine that is labeled as sulfite-free.

Tannins: Tannins are compounds found in wine that give it its distinctive taste and bitterness. Tannins can also cause headaches in some people, especially if they drink wine in large quantities. If you are sensitive to tannins, it is best to choose wine that has a lower tannin content.

Wine can give some people headaches due to a variety of reasons such as alcohol dehydration, histamine and tyramine content, sulfites, and tannins. If you are prone to headaches, it is best to be mindful of the type of wine you are drinking and how much you are consuming. Drinking water along with wine and choosing wine with lower levels of histamine, tyramine, sulfites, and tannins can help reduce the likelihood of getting a headache.

Cheers!