A recent study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology examined the relationship between diet and sleep quality, surveying 1,082 students.

The researchers discovered a strong link between dairy consumption, particularly lactose intolerance, and the occurrence of nightmares, indicating that dietary habits can significantly impact sleep quality.

Eating habits, such as consuming food late at night or snacking before bed, were also linked to an increased likelihood of nightmares, especially among those with a 'night owl' chronotype.

Many respondents identified sweets, spicy foods, and dairy as culprits for poor sleep, with 5.5% believing that food specifically affected the nature of their dreams.

The study found that about one-third of participants reported regular nightmares, with women more likely to experience them and to report food intolerances.

Participants who ate less healthily tended to have more negative dreams and were less likely to recall their dreams.

The research highlights that approximately 40% of college students believe their food choices affect their sleep, with 25% attributing their diets to worsened sleep quality.

The article also explores historical and contemporary links between diet, particularly cheese consumption, and nightmares, referencing folklore and literature, including Charles Dickens' 'A Christmas Carol.'

Additionally, the study references the historical comic strip 'Dream of the Rarebit Fiend,' which depicts nightmares following dairy consumption.

Previous studies suggested a weaker connection between food and dreams compared to the current findings, potentially due to growing awareness of food intolerances among students.

The researchers emphasize the need for further studies across diverse populations to better understand the relationship between food and sleep.