Sulfites in American Red Wine ARE NOT the Main Culprit
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The belief that sulfites in wine cause headaches is a common misconception, but it’s not supported by scientific evidence for most people. Sulfites are preservatives added to wine to prevent oxidation and maintain freshness. They also occur naturally in foods like dried fruits, processed meats, and some vegetables. While a small percentage of people, particularly those with asthma, may have a sensitivity to sulfites, leading to symptoms like hives, difficulty breathing, or other allergic reactions, headaches are not typically among these symptoms. The real culprits behind wine-related headaches are more likely to be other compounds found in wine. One such compound is histamines, which are present in grape skins, especially in red wines. Histamines are naturally occurring chemicals that can trigger headaches in individuals who are sensitive to them. When histamines enter the bloodstream, they can cause blood vessels to expand, potentially leading to a headache. Tannins, another group