Can Eating Cheese Really Influence Your Dreams and Turn Them into Nightmares?

Recent research suggests that dairy products may have an impact on your dreams. A study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology examined sleep patterns, particularly dreams, and how they correlate with eating habits. Notably, one finding indicated that individuals with severe lactose intolerance experienced more intense nightmares.

This study builds on previous research from 2015 that explored the concept of “food-dependent dreaming,” shedding light on how certain foods can influence the content of dreams. According to co-author Tore Nielsen, a professor of psychiatry at the University of Montreal, people have often attributed their bad dreams to cheese consumption. This new study provides deeper insights into those complaints.

The study involved over 1,000 participants who reported their gastrointestinal symptoms related to lactose intolerance. Those with severe symptoms associated with lactose consumption indicated more frequent, distressing, and longer-lasting nightmares. Dairy products and sugary foods were commonly cited as culprits for their unpleasant dreams.

While the participants were primarily college students, suggesting that the findings might not be generalizable to the entire population, the researchers believe there are likely explanations for the connection between dairy and disrupted sleep. Nielsen posits that anxiety linked to lactose intolerance may contribute to increased nightmares. Marie-Pierre St-Onge, director at the Center of Excellence for Sleep & Circadian Research, suggests that gastrointestinal issues can lead to sleep disturbances, potentially affecting dream patterns.

Patrick McNamara, an associate professor of neurology, mentions that consuming lactose may lead to disruptions in sleep quality, which can intensify nightmares. Both McNamara and Nielsen acknowledge that other factors not related to gastrointestinal symptoms could also influence dreaming. Nielsen expresses a desire for further research into the dairy-dream connection, while Russell Powell, another co-author, aims to replicate these findings across diverse groups.

In the meantime, individuals can evaluate their diets and consider adjustments without necessarily consulting a medical professional.