Alcohol Allergy

A true alcohol allergy is rare. Although, sensitivities to alcoholic drinks on the other hand, are more widespread and often come about due to a reaction to another component in the beverage.

Symptoms of an Alcohol Allergy

In people with an allergy to alcohol, even small amounts are enough to spark symptoms such as:

nasal congestion
headaches
skin rashes
difficulty breathing
stomach cramps
nausea
vomiting
heartburn

What causes alcohol allergy?

Sensitivities to alcoholic drinks are quite common and often come about due to a reaction to another component in the beverage, such as:

Amines – naturally occurring chemicals that increase in foods and beverages – such as alcohol and sauerkraut – as they ferment
Salicylates – naturally occurring compounds found in many fruits and vegetables, particularly under the skin. They are high in beers and wine, and also found in low levels in gin, vodka and whisky
Yeasts – used in the alcohol fermentation process, especially beer
Preservatives – especially sulphites, which are commonly used as antibacterial agents to prevent contamination and increase the shelf life of alcohol. (This is why organic wines without preservatives are becoming so popular!)
Sugar – a lot of the sugar that is found naturally in grapes and other fruits and vegetables is fermented to produce alcohol. But there’s often a lot left over, particularly when it comes to sweeter liquors and dessert wines
Egg – a solution of egg whites is commonly used as a clarifying agent to help remove harsh astringency and cloudiness in some wines
Gluten – distilled alcohols (like gin and vodka) are typically free of gluten as the gluten peptides are too large to carry over in the distillation process, as well as wines, but can be present in some beers made from gluten-based grains.

Other underlying causes of true alcohol allergy may include:

Poor liver function or liver disease
A deficiency in the enzymes that are needed to break down alcohol (alcohol dehydrogenase). This condition is commonly seen in people of Asian descent and typically causes facial flushing after ingestion
Leaky gut, which can be an underlying cause of multiple allergies and sensitivities

Managing an Alcohol Allergy

Avoid

Well, duh! This one seems a bit obvious.

One of best ways to rid your symptoms is just to avoid alcohol altogether. However, ‘social pressures’ may make it difficult to cut back or quit.

If you do manage to kick the habit, stay wary of the many ingredients that alcohol contains, which may cause you to still experience symptoms.

Choose wisely

If you know the substance of the alcoholic beverage you’re reacting to, you may be able to find something you enjoy that your body can tolerate. Stay mindful of what you purchase and always double check the ingredients list. For instance, if you’re sensitive to gluten, opt for alcohol that is distilled from something other than wheat, barley, or rye.

Try our Natural Allergy Treatment

At Health & Wellness Australia & Auckland (HWA), our Naturopaths use a form of muscle testing (kinesiology) to help pinpoint the substances triggering your allergy symptoms and contributing to alcohol reactions. Following this, we perform a natural allergy treatment called Positive Association Technique (PAT), which aims to reduce your reactions and symptoms.

Positive Association Technique (PAT)

Positive Association Technique (PAT) is a non-invasive holistic therapy, which:

draws on acupressure and kinesiology techniques
aims to re-train your body
may reduce your reactions to food and environmental substances

At Health & Wellness Australia & Auckland (HWA), our Naturopaths use a form of muscle testing (kinesiology) to help pinpoint the food and environmental substances triggering your allergy symptoms.

Following this, we perform a natural allergy treatment called Positive Association Technique (PAT), which aims to reduce your reactions and symptoms.

We stimulate acupressure points down the spine with a chiropractic tool called an ‘Acustim’, while you are holding onto a sample vial of the substance, which aims to to re-train your body to no longer react to the substance.

Some cases can be complex, so our Naturopaths may also recommend supplements and herbs, and provide lifestyle advice to help you achieve the best long-term results.

Get in touch

Call us on 1300 853 023 / 09 479 5997 (NZ) to chat to our friendly staff
Send us your question HERE
Request a Free PAT Information E-PACK HERE

Please note this blog is general information only. Always consult your healthcare professional before making any diet or lifestyle changes

Leaky Gut

Leaky gut syndrome is a condition where the lining of the gut becomes more porous (‘holey’) and inflamed. The link between gut health and allergies is circular.