Why Do I Get a Headache After Drinking Wine?

With the holiday season come countless celebrations, many of which are commemorated with a champagne toast (or several). For some, that late-night drink leads to a raging headache — and not the kind that comes from overindulgence.

According to Dr. Darria Long, emergency physician and founder of No Panic Parenting, “alcohol can trigger migraines through several mechanisms” in those prone to this type of headache. Typically, alcohol-induced migraines come on quickly, within three hours after imbibing (and sometimes as soon as 15 minutes). Though Dr. Long notes that any alcohol can lead to a migraine if you’re susceptible, wine seems to be an especially common culprit. Experts still aren’t entirely sure why, but there are a few leading theories. 

The first has to do with a flavonoid called quercetin, a naturally occurring antioxidant found in the grapes used to make wine. According to a study published in Scientific Reports, quercetin can interfere with the body’s ability to process alcohol, which may result in a buildup of nasty byproducts that can lead to painful, pounding headaches. Other research suggests that histamines — found in grape skins — are to blame. This theory may explain why red wine, in particular, is associated with migraines, as red wine is made using the entire grape, skins and all. Still, researchers aren’t entirely sure why some suffer after drinking wine while others don’t, though the root cause is likely mostly genetic.

One thing we do know? It’s probably not because of sulfites, preservatives in wine that are often blamed for migraines. Sulfites are also found in dried fruit, some chips, and many other snack foods that don't cause headaches. Plus, those with sulfite allergies — less than 1% of the population — often have breathing problems, not migraines. Because of that, sulfite-free wine is unlikely to be helpful. 

“Like most migraine triggers, wine’s impact is very individual, ranging from no effect to a headache within minutes,” Dr. Long says. “If someone suffers migraines after alcohol, they can try to drink only when well-hydrated and on a full stomach. But if that doesn't work, then avoiding alcohol is often needed.”

Fortunately, many restaurants and bars now offer plenty of nonalcoholic options for those who can’t or prefer not to drink. If you’re toasting at home, consider picking up an NA alternative like the Free AF Nonalcoholic Sparkling Rosé — flavor-wise, it’s practically indistinguishable from the real thing.