How To Choose The Best Red Wine If You Experience Red Wine Headaches

For many wine lovers, enjoying a glass of red wine is a delightful experience, except when it’s followed by the dreaded red wine headache (RWH).

While the exact cause of RWH is still a research topic, a recent study suggests that quercetin, a natural compound found in red wines, might be a contributing factor. In this article, I’ll explore how to choose wines that might be kinder to those prone to RWH and explore why certain wines could be better options.

What’s Behind Red Wine Headaches?

Red wine headaches have long puzzled both wine enthusiasts and scientists. A recent theory suggests that quercetin, found in higher levels in red wines, could be partly responsible. Quercetin is a type of flavonoid, a compound that’s also present in many fruits and vegetables.

Flavonoids are plant compounds known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, playing a key role in protecting against various chronic diseases like heart disease and some cancers. They are also responsible for the vibrant colors in fruits and vegetables and contribute to overall heart and brain health when included in a balanced diet.

Quercetin is particularly abundant in the skin of grapes and, therefore, more concentrated in red…