Cheese may actually give you nightmares: Here is why
The idea that cheese might cause nightmares is a mix of folklore, anecdotal reports, and some scientific speculation—but the evidence isn’t definitive. Here’s what we know:
Why Cheese Could Trigger Nightmares
- Tyramine Content
- Aged cheeses (cheddar, blue cheese, Parmesan) contain tyramine, a compound that can increase norepinephrine—a brain chemical linked to alertness and stress responses.
- High tyramine levels might disrupt sleep cycles or lead to vivid dreams/nightmares in sensitive individuals.
- Late-Night Digestion
- Cheese is high in fat, which can slow digestion. Eating it close to bedtime may cause discomfort or indigestion, potentially disturbing sleep and dream patterns.
- Tryptophan’s Dual Role
- Cheese contains tryptophan (a precursor to serotonin and melatonin), which usually promotes sleep.
- However, in some people, metabolic byproducts of tryptophan might contribute to more intense dreams.
What Does the Science Say?
- A 2005 study by the British Cheese Board (admittedly not peer-reviewed) claimed different cheeses caused distinct dreams (e.g., Stilton led to bizarre dreams, while Red Leicester gave nostalgic ones).
- No rigorous clinical trials confirm cheese directly causes nightmares, but individual reactions vary.
Should You Avoid Cheese Before Bed?
- If you’re prone to nightmares or restless sleep, try skipping aged cheeses late at night.
- Opt for lighter snacks (like a banana or almonds) if digestion is an issue.
- Hydration matters too: Cheese’s salt content may cause dehydration, worsening sleep quality.
Cheese isn’t a universal nightmare trigger, but its compounds could play a role in vivid dreams for some people. If you notice a pattern, experiment with cutting it out before bed!
Reference:
https://www.sciencealert.com/cheese-may-actually-fuel-nightmares-surprising-study-confirms
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/cheese-may-actually-give-you-nightmares-here-is-why
Medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available on below link