Many people worldwide struggle with getting enough quality sleep. In the United States, an estimated 56% of individuals are thought to have a sleep disorder, while in Western Europe, this figure stands at about 31%.
The Role of Nightmares
Nightmares can be a potential contributor to poor sleep. Around 85% of adults experience at least one nightmare annually, with approximately 5% suffering from them frequently.
Nightmares can stem from various causes, often linked to mental health conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and stress. Additionally, certain medications, as well as the use of alcohol and illegal drugs, can also trigger them. Even eating close to bedtime might increase the likelihood of nightmares.
Dr. Tore Nielsen, a professor at the Université de Montréal and director of the Dream & Nightmare Lab, highlighted the prevalence of sleep disturbances. He told Medical News Today, “One large survey found that 30-40% of individuals will have a clinically significant sleep disorder in their lifetime.” He emphasized the need for effective interventions, stating, “Any intervention that can help improve sleep contributes to the overall national battle against poor sleep.”
Dairy and Nightmares: A Surprising Link
In a recent study published in Frontiers in Psychology, Dr. Nielsen and his team found a potential connection between excessive dairy consumption and nightmares, particularly among individuals with lactose intolerance. Their research analyzed data comparing food intolerances with reported sleep problems and nightmares. The findings indicated that lactose intolerance was associated with digestive issues, poor sleep quality, and a higher occurrence of nightmares.
