Tag: Tonic water side effects

The United States FDA limits the amount of quinine in tonic water to 83 parts per million, a much smaller concentration than therapeutic doses. However, for certain individuals, consuming too much or having a sensitivity to quinine can still lead to undesirable side effects, sparking the question, 'why is quinine in tonic bad?'

Quinine, the substance that gives tonic water its distinctive bitter taste, has a long history of medicinal use. For some sensitive individuals, however, this very compound may be the reason they experience a throbbing head and ask: can tonic water give you a headache?

While some claim it can settle an upset stomach, medical professionals largely disagree. The effects of tonic water on your belly are complex, influenced by its carbonation, sugar content, and the small amount of quinine it contains.