Wine brings pleasure. But for some it can also prove a painful experience. Red wine is particularly problematic for a proportion of the population, with just a few mouthfuls bringing on swift and excruciating headaches. Now, scientists think they may finally be on to why.
In lab experiments, they’ve identified a compound in red wine that impedes the breakdown of alcohol by the liver and causes a build-up of toxic acetaldehyde in the bloodstream. Human trials are still needed for confirmation - but these are exciting findings.
In this episode, we discuss these results with the scientists behind them: Professor Andrew Waterhouse and Dr Apramita Devi from the University of California, Davis.
As for the BIG question - which red wines might be safer for sufferers - there’s good news… The experts actually recommend cheap rather than pricey red wines. Yes, you read that right: the boffins are endorsing the bargains!
We explain why as well as providing some top tips for bargain basement reds - we also touch on the tantalising prospect of how this research may help us understand hangovers too.
Wines featured in this episode
Italiano Vino Rosso, 11.5%, Italy (£4.50, Tesco)
Toro Loco Tempranillo-Bobal Utiel-Requena 2022 DOP, 12.5%, Spain (£4.99, Aldi)
Castellore Primitivo di Puglia IGT 2022, 13.5%, Italy (£5.99, Aldi)
Vista Castelli Montepulciano d’Abruzzo 2021, 12.5%, Italy (£5.50, Tesco)
Mimo Moutinho Dão DOC 2021, 13%, Portugal (£6.49, Aldi)