Andy Montoya
While it is not possible to get high on Stilton cheese, it is known to cause vivid dreams. In 2005, a British Cheese Board study revealed that 75% of male and 85% of female participants experienced odd dreams after eating 20 grams of Stilton cheese. The study also found that Stilton cheese resulted in the most bizarre dreams compared to other types of cheese. The dreams included visions of talking animals, vegetarian crocodiles, and warrior kittens. The vivid dreams caused by Stilton cheese may be due to the potential psychoactive effects of different compounds found in fungi, such as tryptamine or tyramine, which can influence brain chemistry and state of mind.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Cheese | Blue Cheese |
| Fungus | Penicillium roqueforti |
| Cause | Vivid dreams, sleep paralysis |
| Effect | Hallucinations, increased dream vividness |
| Chemical Cause | Tryptamine, tyramine |
| Chemical Effect | Influences brain's chemical systems |
| Safe Amount | 20 grams |
| Production Location | Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire |
| Production Requirement | Use of pasteurised local milk |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Blue Stilton's fungus and bacteria may cause vivid dreams
Blue Stilton cheese is made from saprotrophic fungi, such as Penicillium roqueforti and Penicillium glaucum, and bacteria. These give the cheese its distinctive blue veins and flavour. While there is little scientific evidence, some sources suggest that the bacteria and fungi in Blue Stilton may be responsible for the vivid dreams that some people report after consuming the cheese.
One theory suggests that the bacteria and fungi in Blue Stilton may contain psychoactive compounds, such as tryptamine and tyramine, which can affect the brain's chemical systems and influence our dreams. Tryptamine, for example, is a precursor for serotonin and other alkaloids, which are involved in the hallucinogenic effects of "magic" mushrooms. However, it is important to note that there is no hard evidence that tryptamine is present in Blue Stilton, and even if it is, it would likely be in very low doses.
Another factor that may contribute to vivid dreams is the amino acid tryptophan, which is found in high amounts in Blue Stilton. Tryptophan is involved in the production of melatonin and serotonin, which play a role in regulating sleep and mood. Eating cheese before bed may increase tryptophan levels, promoting sleepiness and potentially influencing dream content.
While the exact mechanism is not fully understood, several reports and anecdotes suggest a link between consuming Blue Stilton and experiencing vivid dreams. In one study, 75% of male and 85% of female participants reported bizarre dreams after eating 20 grams of Blue Stilton before bed. Similarly, in a Reddit thread, several users shared their experiences of surreal and vivid dreams after consuming Blue Stilton.
It is important to note that individual responses may vary, and not everyone may experience vivid dreams after consuming Blue Stilton. Additionally, the high saturated fat content of Blue Stilton may also contribute to a feeling of heaviness or sleepiness, which could indirectly influence dream patterns.
The Story Behind the Name: Cheese Sandwich
You may want to see also
Stilton's bacteria and fungal content may influence brain chemistry
While there is no hard evidence that Stilton cheese contains psychoactive compounds, it is known to frequently cause vivid dreams. One theory suggests that the bacteria and fungi in Stilton may influence brain chemistry and increase dream vividness.
The distinctive blue veins in Blue Stilton are created by piercing the cheese's crust with stainless steel needles, allowing air into the core. The manufacturing and ripening process takes about nine to twelve weeks. The microbial analysis of blue cheeses has been studied using techniques such as temporal temperature gradient electrophoresis (TTGE) and denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE). These techniques have revealed a diverse bacterial and fungal biota in Stilton, with lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and fungi dominating the process.
The pH of blue cheese increases during ripening, from 4.7–5.0 in the first days of manufacture to 6.0–7.0 at the end of ripening. This increase is due to the degradation of lactic acid by non-LAB moulds, primarily Penicillium roqueforti, and yeasts. The natural acidification made by lactic acid bacteria in blue-veined cheeses has been replaced by the addition of selected starter cultures. These primary LAB cultures must be able to lower the pH of the milk and survive phage attacks.
The sensory characteristics of blue cheese are due to complex biochemical reactions involving a diverse microbiota of fungi and bacteria. The characteristic odour impressions of blue cheese are introduced by methyl ketones, which give the cheese fruity, floral, and spicy notes. The taste is usually intense and sharp, relatively spicy, salty, and acidic. The rind is natural, soft, thin, and creamy, with different colours caused by microbial growth on the surface.
In conclusion, while the bacterial and fungal content of Stilton may not get you "high" in the traditional sense, it can indeed influence brain chemistry and enhance dream vividness. The complex microbiology of Stilton contributes to its unique sensory characteristics, including its intense flavour and distinctive odour.
Can Salmonella Lurk in Your Cheese?
You may want to see also
A 2005 study found Stilton causes wacky, nonsensical dreams
A 2005 study by the British Cheese Board found that 20 grams of Stilton cheese caused odd dreams in 75% of male and 85% of female participants. The study, which included 200 participants, revealed that the consumption of Stilton cheese before sleep resulted in wacky, nonsensical dreams. The participants reported seeing odd images, including talking animals, vegetarian crocodiles, and sentient toys.
The study also found that eating cheese before bed helped people fall asleep. This is attributed to the relatively high tryptophan content in cheese, an amino acid that plays a role in the production of melatonin and serotonin, which are involved in regulating the sleep-wake cycle. Stilton cheese is also high in tryptophan, which is known to facilitate a nightmare-free sleep.
While the 2005 study focused on Stilton cheese, it is important to note that other types of cheese may also have similar effects on dreams. Some people have reported that consuming cheddar cheese led to dreams featuring celebrities. Additionally, the bacteria and fungal content in cheese, especially potent blue cheeses, are hypothesized to increase dream vividness due to the potential psychoactive effects of compounds found in fungi, such as tryptamine and tyramine. These compounds can influence brain chemistry and, consequently, our state of mind.
However, it is essential to approach these findings with caution. The British Cheese Board's study was a sleep study, and the wild visions experienced by the participants occurred only in their dreams. Furthermore, the link between cheese consumption and vivid dreams is mostly anecdotal, with only one academic paper mentioning the phenomenon. While the bacteria and fungal content in cheese may play a role, the presence of tryptamine in cheeses like Stilton has not been established, and even if present, it would likely be in extremely low doses.
The Science Behind Fermented Cheese: A Tasty Adventure
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Stilton may cause hallucinations, like 'talking animals'
While there is no scientific evidence that Stilton cheese can cause hallucinations, some people claim that consuming it leads to surreal, vivid, and odd dreams. A 2005 British Cheese Board study revealed that 75% of male and 85% of female participants who consumed 20 grams of Stilton cheese reported having bizarre dreams. However, it is important to note that the study was a sleep study, and the participants' experiences were limited to dreams.
The potential reason behind the association between Stilton cheese and vivid dreams may be related to the cheese's impact on MAO inhibitors (a class of antidepressant drugs). Stilton cheese may affect MAO inhibitors due to its high tyramine levels, which can influence catecholamine metabolism and lead to fluctuations in dopamine or serotonin levels. However, it is important to note that consuming excessive amounts of cheese, especially when combined with certain medications, can result in dangerously high levels of serotonin, leading to serotonin syndrome, which can be fatal.
While the link between Stilton cheese and surreal dreams has gained some attention, it is important to approach this topic with caution. The impact of Stilton cheese on dreams may vary among individuals, and there is a lack of comprehensive research specifically linking Stilton cheese to hallucinations or surreal experiences while awake.
It is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian before significantly altering your diet or consuming any food item in excessive quantities. Additionally, if you are taking medications, it is crucial to seek professional advice to ensure that your dietary choices align with your medication regimen.
Finding the White Key in Cheese Escape
You may want to see also
Stilton may increase serotonin and dopamine levels
It is important to note that while Stilton cheese may increase serotonin and dopamine levels, it is not a recommended way to boost these neurotransmitters. High levels of serotonin can be dangerous and even fatal, and consuming too much Stilton cheese can lead to dangerously high levels of serotonin.
Stilton cheese is known to contain high levels of tyramine, a monoaminergic activity enhancer (MAE) of serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. Tyramine enhances the release of these neurotransmitters and is produced by the decarboxylation of tyrosine during fermentation or decay. As Stilton is an aged cheese, it has higher levels of tyramine than other cheeses.
Consuming tyramine can have various effects on the body, including increasing blood pressure and heart rate. It can also cause a hypertensive crisis if combined with certain medications, such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). This is because MAOIs block the enzymes that break down tyramine, leading to a buildup in the body.
In addition to tyramine, Stilton cheese is also high in tryptophan, an essential amino acid that is necessary for serotonin production. Tryptophan-rich foods, when combined with carbohydrates, can help increase serotonin levels. However, it is important to note that tryptophan is not a guaranteed way to boost serotonin levels, and mood and sleep regulation are influenced by various factors.
While Stilton cheese may increase serotonin and dopamine levels, it is important to consume it in moderation and be aware of the potential risks associated with high levels of these neurotransmitters. It is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your diet or taking any supplements.
How Farmers Profit from Surplus Cheese
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
No, you cannot get high on Stilton cheese. However, it is believed to cause vivid dreams.
Stilton cheese is believed to cause bizarre dreams, including visions of talking animals, vegetarian crocodiles, and warrior kittens.
The exact reason is unknown, but it is speculated that the bacteria and fungal content in the cheese, particularly in blue cheeses, may be the cause.
While Stilton cheese is not known to cause harmful side effects, it is important to consume it in moderation as it is high in saturated fat.
Yes, other types of cheese, such as cheddar, have also been linked to vivid dreams and hallucinations. Additionally, certain foods like poppy seeds and nutmeg can have psychoactive effects but may not be safe for consumption.
