Asthmatics know that anything from physical activity to dust can cause wheezing. But did you know that alcohol can also cause them and that wine is the worst culprit?
Two recent studies found that more than a third of asthmatics reported having suffered side effects from drinking wine (with women most affected), as well as lifelong sufferers and those taking oral steroids.
But fear not. Some wines are much less likely to trigger attacks; you just have to know what to look for.
All alcohol can worsen asthmatic sensitivity to common triggers such as pollen, dust mites or mould. But wine is particularly bad for asthmatics because of the high levels of “happy trigger” substances it contains.
The main culprits are histamines and sulfites.
If you get easily excited, look for biodynamic and organic wines, which use minimal amounts of additives during the production process.
Histamine is the chemical that is released in the body in an allergic reaction. It’s what gives you headaches, makes you blush, itches you, and makes you sneeze. It is found in all types of foods and drinks as it is a natural byproduct of the fermentation process, which is how wine is produced.
Sulfites are also an inevitable byproduct of the winemaking process, so even bottles marked “no added sulfites” will contain a very low level of the chemical.
The problem for asthmatics arises when additional sulfites are added for their preservative qualities, to prolong the shelf life of the plonk.
A minor, although still annoying, asthma trigger is the salicylates that wines may contain. They are found naturally in fruits and protect them from disease, but they can cause wheezing, especially when fermented.
So how do you identify wines that won’t leave you gasping? Wine expert HELENA NICKLIN shares tips to help you raise a glass without resorting to the inhaler and some wines for you to try…
Check your labels
Labeling requirements for the presence of sulfites in wine do not have to reflect the exact amount present.
All bottles must be labeled when sulfites exceed 10 mg per liter, but producers do not have to be specific.
Therefore, a wine with large amounts of sulfites and a natural wine with almost no sulfites should carry the same information of ‘Contains Sulfites’. This makes it difficult to know which are the worst offenders.
As a general rule, mass-produced supermarket brands will contain high levels of sulphites. Look out for E numbers E221 to E228 on the label and avoid any wine containing them.
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It’s best to stick with individual wine merchants like Vintage Roots, who specialize in natural wines.
While best practice is to look for wines that say “no added sulfites,” they are difficult to find, especially in supermarkets.
If you’re really excited, it’s best to turn to individual wine merchants like Vintage Roots or companies like Juiced Wines or Pure Wines that specialize in natural wines. Look for biodynamic and organic wines, which use minimal amounts of additives during the production process.
Whites on reds
White wine grapes such as Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio are less likely to trigger allergies and asthma.
The tooth-drying tannin often found in heavy red wines comes from the skins, seeds and stems of grapes, and can also cause reactions.
The solution? Stick to white grapes like Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio, or try a pale rosé.
If you are an unconditional lover of reds, opt for a light to medium-bodied wine and choose those made with thin-skinned grapes such as Pinot Noir or Gamay, which give rise to Beaujolais.
Young over old
Bad news for lovers of vintage wines, as older wines, especially reds, tend to have high concentrations of histamines due to longer fermentation. Look for the most recent year on the label.
Dry over sweet
Sweet wines with a higher sugar content often contain higher levels of sulfites. This also applies to sparkling wines, so it is best to choose traditionally made sparkling wines, such as young champagnes or cavas, rather than sweeter styles of prosecco.
While natural wine specialists and independent merchants are the easiest way to go, here are some Easy to find wines that shouldn’t give you asthma…
Pure organic stormhoek, Chenin Blanc–Sauvignon Blanc no added sulfur 2023, Western Cape Price for a pack of six, Majestic, £7.99
Vibrant, floral and honeyed, with an acidic touch that quenches thirst, this white is also well priced.
Villa María Tierra Jardín Organic Sauvignon Blanc £12, Tesco
With its focus on organic and biodiversity, the inference is that sulphite levels will be lower than average for this vibrant, herbaceous and citrusy Sauvignon.
Naturae Organic Merlot £11.99, waiter
Red wine fans will love this organic, velvety Merlot, with a plum and spice aroma, without added sulfites or additives.
Sainsbury’s SO Organic, No Added Sulphur, Fairtrade Chenin Blanc £6.75 on sale
This South African white wine ticks all the boxes for no-wheeze. Think underripe melon with a crunchy saltiness.
Pizzolato without sulfur Added Merlot £12.50 instead of £17, Ocado
A smooth Italian Merlot, lighter in body but spicy with complex notes of cedar and vine tomato. A perfect pizza wine.
Lady K Splashes Biodynamic Rosé £25, Ocado
A biodynamic favorite from Soho House, this is a full-bodied creamy rose, with notes of ripe strawberry and raspberry.
Due to individual tolerances, we cannot guarantee that these wines will not have adverse effects.
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