Sulfites and headaches: are they to blame if wine makes you feel sick?

How many times do you find yourself with a headache, tiredness, and a feeling of exhaustion the next day after drinking wine? The culprits are often cited as sulfites, those mysterious additives found in many wines. But is this really the case? Are sulfites really responsible for this discomfort? Let’s find out by answering the most common questions on the subject.

Sulfites are sulfur-based chemical compounds that act as preservatives in wine. They are used to prevent oxidation, inhibit the growth of unwanted bacteria and yeasts, stabilize color and flavor, and ensure the product’s shelf life and safety over time.

Even without addition, sulfites can form naturally during alcoholic fermentation, so they are almost always present in every bottle of wine, albeit in varying amounts.

The addition of sulfites helps wine maintain its characteristics over time. They prevent wine from easily spoiling during long periods of storage, during transport, and during bottling. Without sulfites, many wines would risk premature spoilage or microbiological contamination that is difficult to control, especially in large-scale production.

Do all wines contain sulfites?

Virtually yes. Even natural wines, organic, or biodynamic contain small amounts of sulfites formed spontaneously during fermentation. What changes is the total amount.

In industrial wines, levels can reach up to 150-200 mg/liter, while in organic and biodynamic wines they are often limited to 50-100 mg/liter. In natural wines without added sulfites, the levels drop even lower than 30 mg/liter.

Even when the label “”no added sulfites”” appears on the bottle, small traces remain.

Are sulfites harmful to health?

For most people, sulfites do not pose a risk, as long as they are consumed within permitted limits. However, a small portion of the population may be intolerant or hypersensitive to sulfites. The most common symptoms include difficulty breathing, nasal congestion, hives, skin irritation, and, in rare cases, asthma attacks.

The most serious reactions are seen primarily in people with asthma or respiratory allergies, while for the majority of occasional, healthy consumers, drinking wine with sulfites poses no particular risk, if consumed in moderation.

Do sulfites really cause wine headaches?

It’s one of the most widespread myths, but in most cases, sulfites are not the main culprit behind wine headaches. Headaches can, in fact, be caused primarily by other factors, including dehydration from alcohol, ethanol-induced vasodilation, the presence of biogenic amines such as histamine and tyramine (more common in red wines), tannins, or residual sugar content.

Sulfites, however, are more frequently associated with respiratory or allergic reactions rather than the classic hangover headache.

Why are some people more sensitive to sulfites?

Sulfit sensitivity depends on individual factors. Some people have a reduced ability to metabolize these compounds, while in asthmatics or allergy sufferers, sulfites can trigger respiratory reactions. In other cases, sensitivity may be linked to a genetic predisposition or the presence of multiple food intolerances at the same time.

It should be noted, however, that the percentage of the population that is truly sulfite intolerant is very small and is often confused with other types of reactions.

Is it true that red wines contain more sulfites?

Contrary to popular belief, white and sweet wines often contain higher levels of sulfites than red wines. This is because red wines, thanks to the presence of tannins and polyphenols, naturally preserve better, while white wines are more delicate and easily oxidized, thus requiring greater preservation.

In sweet wines, the higher amount of residual sugars increases the risk of unwanted fermentation, which is why an additional dose of sulfites is added.

How do you know if a headache after drinking wine is due to sulfites?

It’s not easy to determine without specific tests, but there are some telltale signs. If the headache appears immediately after drinking or if other respiratory symptoms occur, you may be sensitive to sulfites. If the headache appears the next day or a few hours after drinking, the cause is more likely alcohol, dehydration, or the presence of other substances in the wine, such as histamine or tannins.

If you have persistent concerns, the best solution is to consult an allergist to determine whether you’re actually intolerant.

Are there sulfite-free wines?

There are wines on the market labeled “”no added sulfites.”” These wines are produced using particularly careful techniques to avoid oxidation and microbiological contamination, without the need for external sulfites. However, a minimal amount of natural sulfites, formed during fermentation, is still present.

Completely eliminating sulfites in wine is virtually impossible, but these products are a good choice for those who want to limit their intake.

Do natural wines cause less headaches?

Many people report a greater tolerance to natural wines, perhaps due to their lower sulfites and other added substances. However, even natural wines may contain biogenic amines, which can cause headaches in some cases, especially in those most predisposed.

Although natural wines are perceived as “”lighter,”” everyone’s body reacts differently. Some people tolerate them better, while others may still experience discomfort.

Are sulfites only present in wine?

No, sulfites are present in many common foods and beverages. For example, they are frequently found in nuts, shellfish, packaged fruit juices, some vinegars, canned foods, and some carbonated drinks.

For those with sulfite intolerance, it’s important to consider the total intake from the entire diet, not just that from wine consumption.

Does drinking plenty of water help reduce wine headaches?

Yes. Hydration is one of the most effective strategies for combating wine headaches. Drinking water before, during, and after alcohol consumption helps counteract dehydration, promote the elimination of toxins, and reduce the risk of headaches.

Accompanying wine with food and not drinking on an empty stomach is another measure that can help limit side effects the next day.

Are sulfites banned in other countries?

Sulfites are regulated virtually everywhere, and there are no countries that prohibit their use in commercial wine. In Europe, there are specific limits: for dry red wines, the maximum limit is 150 mg/liter, while for white wines, it can go up to 200 mg/liter.

Organic and biodynamic production generally have even lower limits to ensure a product as natural as possible.

Are there alternatives to sulfites for preserving wine?

Some producers are experimenting with alternative techniques to reduce the use of sulfites, such as the use of inert gases to protect the wine from oxygen and the use of sterile filtration that removes microorganisms without the need for chemical additives.

These techniques, however, require expertise and sophisticated equipment and are often not applicable on a large scale or to all types of wine.

Can sulfites worsen insomnia or fatigue?

The fatigue and insomnia associated with wine consumption are generally due to alcohol, which alters the sleep cycle. and compromises the quality of sleep. Sulfites, on the other hand, do not directly affect sleep but can, in those intolerant, cause other types of discomfort, such as irritation or respiratory congestion.

Conclusion: Are sulfites really causing headaches after drinking wine?

The truth is that in most cases, sulfites are not the main culprit behind wine headaches. The discomfort is often caused by alcohol itself, dehydration, and other substances present in wine, such as biogenic amines or tannins.

Only a small percentage of people, who are truly sulfites intolerant, may develop noticeable reactions after drinking. The solution always lies in moderation, choosing quality wines, and listening to your body. This way, wine remains a pleasure, without unpleasant consequences.