Does wine make you cough more

When it comes to enjoying a good glass of wine, the last thing you want is a persistent cough interrupting your experience. However, many wine enthusiasts claim that certain wines make them cough more than others. So, is there any truth to this claim, or is it simply a coincidence? Let’s explore the relationship between wine and coughing.

To begin with, it’s important to understand that wine, like many other alcoholic beverages, contains a substance called ethanol. Ethanol is known to have a drying effect on the respiratory system, which can potentially irritate the throat and trigger a cough. This can vary depending on the individual’s sensitivity and tolerance to ethanol.

Moreover, wine also contains various other compounds that can contribute to the coughing sensation. Sulfites, for example, are commonly used as preservatives in wine and can cause respiratory irritation in some people. Additionally, certain wines may have higher levels of histamines, which can also trigger coughing and other allergic reactions.

One particular type of wine that is often associated with coughing is red wine. Some individuals claim that the tannins found in red wine can lead to a dry and itchy throat, resulting in a cough. Tannins are natural compounds present in grape skins, stems, and seeds, and they provide the characteristic astringency and bitterness in red wines. While tannins are not hazardous, they can have an adverse effect on certain individuals, leading to coughing or throat irritation.

However, it is worth mentioning that not everyone experiences coughing after consuming wine. Some people may not be affected at all, while others may only have a reaction to specific types or brands of wine. It all depends on an individual’s unique sensitivity and tolerance levels.

If you find that wine consistently leads to coughing for you, there are a few steps you can take to reduce this issue. Firstly, try drinking water alongside your wine to keep your throat hydrated and counteract the drying effects of alcohol. Alternatively, you could opt for white wines or rosé, as they generally have lower tannin levels than red wines. Finally, you can also choose wines labeled as “low sulfite” or “sulfite-free” to minimize the potential respiratory irritation caused by sulfites.

In conclusion, while it may be true that some individuals experience coughing after drinking wine, it is primarily due to the presence of compounds such as ethanol, tannins, sulfites, and histamines. Different people have varying sensitivities to these substances, resulting in different reactions. To minimize the chances of coughing, try drinking water alongside your wine, choosing white or rosé wines with lower tannin levels, or selecting wines with reduced sulfite content. Ultimately, finding the right wine for you may involve some trial and error, but it’s worth it to enjoy a cough-free wine-drinking experience.