Why Red Wine Causes Headaches And How to Get Relief Fast
Many people enjoy a glass of red wine, but for some, even one glass can trigger a pounding headache—sometimes within minutes. Unlike traditional hangovers caused by alcohol overconsumption, red wine headaches (RWH) are more complex and often misunderstood.
Let’s unpack the science behind why red wine causes headaches and what you can do to recover quickly and effectively.
Red Wine Headaches: The Hidden Hangover
Here is why Red wine triggers headaches for a lot of people:
a) Histamines
Red wine is rich in histamines—natural compounds found in grape skins. People with lower levels of the enzyme diamine oxidase (which breaks down histamines) may experience flushing, nasal congestion, or headaches.
b) Tannins
Tannins are plant compounds that give red wine its dry, astringent quality. Tannins can trigger the release of serotonin, and while this is normally a “feel-good” chemical, in sensitive individuals it can cause migraines.
c) Sulfites
Sulfites are preservatives used to keep wine fresh. While sulfite sensitivity is rare, in some people it can cause headaches, asthma-like symptoms, or skin reactions. However, white wine typically contains more sulfites than red, making sulfites a less likely culprit for RWH.
d) Alcohol & Dehydration
Alcohol is a diuretic. It increases urine output, which can lead to dehydration—a known headache trigger. Red wine also causes blood vessels to expand (vasodilation), another migraine contributor.
e) Sugar + Alcohol
A high sugar-to-alcohol ratio (common in sweeter red wines) may cause a blood sugar crash, leading to fatigue, nausea, and headache.
Who Is Most at Risk?
- People with migraine history
- Individuals with histamine intolerance
- Those who drink red wine on an empty stomach
- People who are dehydrated or low in magnesium
How to Get Relief from a Red Wine Headache
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Hydrate Immediately: Drink at least 500ml of water with electrolytes. Coconut water or oral rehydration salts can also help rebalance fluids.
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Apply a Natural Headache Roll-On: Use a magnesium, lavender, and clove-based roll-on like Zanskar Headache & Migraine Relief Roll-On. Magnesium helps relax blood vessels, while lavender and clove offer fast-acting relief through aromatherapy and topical absorption.
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Take Magnesium: If you are prone to wine headaches, magnesium deficiency could be a factor. Supplementing with magnesium glycinate may help long term.
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Use a Cold Compress: Place a cold pack on your forehead or neck to constrict blood vessels and ease the throbbing sensation.
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Avoid Triggers in the Future
- Choose wines with lower tannins (e.g., Pinot Noir, Merlot)
- Limit intake to one glass and drink slowly
- Eat a protein-rich snack before drinking
Tips to Prevent RWH
- Check labels: Some natural and organic wines are lower in histamines and sulfites.
- Track reactions: Use a headache diary to identify which types of red wine affect you most.
- Choose white over red: If you’re particularly sensitive, white wine or clear spirits may be a safer option.
Final Word
If red wine gives you a headache, you’re not imagining it. The cause could be histamines, tannins, dehydration, or all of the above. Thankfully, with smart prevention and fast-acting remedies, you can enjoy life—and maybe even the occasional glass—without fear of the pounding pain that follows.
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Medical Review: This article is written and medically reviewed by Dr Nishtha Mittal (Senior Health Content Editor at Zanskar Health). This article and its contents are provided for educational and informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice or professional services specific to you or your medical condition.
