She Strengthens

The Curious Case of Cheese and Dreams

A Slice of History
People have long believed that nibbling on cheese before bed can conjure up the bedtime scaries. But where did this notion originate? From Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol to a 1900s comic strip, “Dreams of the Rarebit Fiend,” the idea has been perpetuated. However, there’s no concrete evidence to support the claim that cheese induces nightmares.

The Cheesy Truth
A 2005 survey by the British Cheese Board explored the relationship between cheese and dreams. While participants reported vivid and unusual dreams, none of them were nightmares. In fact, the survey found that different types of cheese influenced dreams in distinct ways. For instance, Stilton led to vivid dreams, while Cheddar brought on celebrity appearances. Red Leicester triggered nostalgic dreams, and Lancashire inspired career-oriented ones.

The Science Behind Sleep
Cheese contains tryptophan, an amino acid that promotes serotonin production, which regulates sleep. A small 2012 study discovered that tryptophan-enriched cereal improved sleep quality, antioxidant capacity, and mood. So, it’s possible that cheese could actually aid in a restful night’s sleep.

Debunking the Myth
Despite the lack of evidence, the notion that cheese causes nightmares persists. In 2018, Burger King even released a “Nightmare King” burger, claiming it was clinically proven to induce nightmares. However, the study was not peer-reviewed and was likely a marketing ploy.

Lactose Intolerance: The Real Culprit
While cheese may not affect dreams, it can cause problems for those with lactose intolerance. This common condition affects approximately 65% of people, leading to gastrointestinal issues like bloating, nausea, and stomach cramps.

The Verdict: Cheese and Sleep
Unless you’re lactose intolerant, there’s no reason to avoid cheese before bed. The myth that cheese induces nightmares has been debunked, and the science suggests it might even promote a good night’s sleep. So go ahead, indulge in that pre-bedtime snack – but perhaps opt for a lighter, easier-to-digest option to avoid any discomfort.