Researchers May Have Found What Actually Causes Wine Headaches Leave a comment

Biogenic amines (BAs), a naturally occurring compound, are likely the reason that headaches occur after drinking wine. One type of biogenic amines — histamines — are found in fermented foods and drinks, via SevenFifty. 

Many people assume that natural wine is cleaner and safer because these wines are considered to have very little to no sulfur dioxide incorporated, via SevenFifty. As Sophie Parker-Thomson explains in her paper, “[SO2 is] a very moderate amount, added right at the start of fermentation, which will ensure that they [winemakers] can do … winemaking techniques [like skin contact and natural fermentation], but not risk toxic levels of BAs and consequent adverse health impacts in consumers.”

Although it can be easy to assume wine is healthier based strictly on if it’s considered a natural wine or how it’s made, it’s not that straightforward. Chris Brockway of Broc Cellars in Berkeley, California told SevenFifty, “I’ve never looked at low/no sulfur in terms of health benefits.” “To me it’s always been more about having wines that are alive.” And for him, whether a wine is “healthy” is all about the grapes. “The health benefits have more to do with how the grapes are grown, whether it’s organic or biodynamic.”

Surely, this new research will spark more conversation about wines and health and what really causes headaches. One thing is clear — attempting to label wines as healthy or not healthy solely by their ingredients is not doing anyone any favors.