A persistent idea suggests that consuming cheese before sleeping would cause nightmares. A recent Canadian study brings scientific elements to understand this phenomenon, by exploring the link between food and quality of sleep.
The researchers looked at the perceptions of more than 1,000 students concerning the impact of their diet on their nights. So little of them establish a direct link between their dreams and their plate, certain foods indeed seem to play a role in the quality of rest.
The role of dairy products in sleep disorders
Among the participants, 40 % said that certain foods influenced their sleep, with various effects. Indeed, 25 % of them (10 % of the whole) estimated that their rest was disrupted following the consumption of sweets, dairy products or spicy dishes in particular. Conversely, 20 % (8 % of the whole) observed on the contrary an improvement in their sleep after consumption of fresh fruit, vegetables or herbal teas. Dairy products, such as cheese, were among the foods most often incriminated for agitated nights, alongside sweets and spicy dishes.
Only 5.5 % of respondents established a direct link between their diet and the nature of their dreams. Among them, a majority pointed out the sweet products and dairy products, which they associated with strange or disturbing dreams. This small proportion suggests that the impact on dreams remains marginal, but notable in some people.
Researchers point out that these observations could be explained by digestive difficulties, especially in lactose intolerants. Bloating or night cramps disrupt sleep, thus increasing the alarm clock during the phase of dreams – and therefore the chances of remembering nightmares.
Physiological mechanisms at stake
Our body digests less effectively at night, which makes late consumption of cheese particularly trying. The fats and proteins slow down digestion, disturbing deep sleep and the dream phase (paradoxical sleep).
The awakenings during this phase increase the chances of remembering his nightmares. Thus, it is not so much cheese that creates scary dreams, but rather its impact on the quality of sleep.
Finally, the researchers point out that these observations are based on subjective statements. Experimental studies will be necessary to confirm these links and determine if other factors come into play.
