Question
I am allergic to sulphur-based medications and have recently had an allergic reaction, (rose-coloured hives, itching, skin pigmentation). I took some benalydral and it's helping, but I am wondering what could be causing this recent reaction as I am not taking any sulphur medication. I have been taking Metabolife for about a year with no prior symptoms. I also drink about a half bottle of Chardonnay a night. Could the sulphur from the wine be causing this reaction?

Answer
The "sulfa" chemical structure is often confused with sulphur the chemical. The term sulfa refers to a chemical structure. This complex structure is relatively common and is present in drugs including antibiotics, diuretics like hydrochlorothiazide, analgesics like Celebrex and many others.

I am not aware of any foods that contain the sulfa compound naturally ? although I suppose there is a theoretical risk of the compound finding its way into the meat that we eat through the routine use of antibiotics in livestock. However, I have not heard of anyone having an allergic reaction to meat on this basis.

In short, it is impossible to tell what caused your recent reaction without a lot more detailed examination of the possible causes.