A recent study has found a link between certain foods and disturbed sleep, particularly focusing on dairy products and their potential to cause nightmares. Researchers from Université de Montréal, led by Dr. Tore Nielsen, surveyed over 1,000 students to explore the connection between diet and sleep quality. They discovered that consuming dairy products, especially for those with lactose intolerance, was associated with nightmares and poor sleep quality. This is thought to occur because lactose intolerance can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, which disrupts sleep and affects dreams.

The study, published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology, involved asking participants about their eating habits, sleep quality, and any perceived links between the two. Approximately one-third of respondents reported experiencing regular nightmares, with women more likely to report poor sleep and food intolerances. About 40% of participants believed that eating late or consuming specific foods affected their sleep, with dairy, sweets, and spicy foods often blamed for negative dreams.

While the study highlights a strong link between lactose intolerance and nightmares, the overall relationship between diet and sleep remains unclear. Further research is needed to determine whether poor diet leads to poor sleep or vice versa, or if another factor influences both. Dr. Nielsen suggests that simple dietary changes could potentially improve sleep and overall health, but emphasizes the need for more diverse studies to confirm these findings.

Ray LaMontagne

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