Does Sleeping with Bread in Your Bed Really Improve Sleep Quality?

Does Sleeping with Bread in Your Bed Really Help You Sleep Better?

Bread has been a dietary staple for centuries, but some claim this humble food can also provide benefits beyond basic nutrition. An intriguing folk remedy advises placing loaves of bread in between your mattress and box spring to help you sleep better at night. But does this unorthodox sleep aid really work?

While scientific evidence is scant, there are some theoretical reasons why sleeping with bread in your bed might impact sleep quality. Evaluating the proposed mechanisms and anecdotal experiences can help shed light on this unique home remedy.

Origins of the Folk Remedy

Like many traditional folk treatments, the practice of using bread as a sleep aid is long-standing but somewhat mysterious in origin. There are a few main theories on how it emerged:

• Peasants in 15th century Germany reportedly slept with bread leftover from the day to help pad their hard beds.
• Ancient Egyptians are said to have placed bread under the heads of restless sleepers to induce slumber.
• Early American pioneers used dried out bread slices to add cushioning and support to bedding.

The bread was not necessarily intended to enhance sleep chemically, but simply provide comfort and padding. However, people began noticing it also seemed to help them fall asleep and sleep more soundly overnight.

Proposed Effects on Sleep Quality

While the historical origins focus on bread as a physical buffer, several chemical effects have now been proposed that could explain improved sleep:

• Odor releasing - Bread may release aromas that promote relaxation or drowsiness.
• Moisture absorbing - The bread could absorb excess moisture, keeping bedding dry and comfortable.
• toxin absorbing - Potentially absorbs toxins, allergens or chemicals from mattress off-gassing.
• Thermoregulation - May maintain optimal temperature and humidity in the sleep environment.
• Negative ion generation - Releases negative ions that increase feelings of well-being.

However, there is minimal scientific research yet on these proposed mechanisms. The benefits are mainly based on anecdotal experiences.

Types of Bread Used

For those wishing to test out the folk remedy of sleeping with bread, the type of bread used may make a difference.

Partially dried or stale bread seems to be preferred, as very fresh bread can become musty or moldy due to higher moisture content. Slightly hardened slices are said to be ideal for absorbing ambient moisture in the bedding.

While plain white sandwich bread is often suggested, some recommend specifics types of bread for maximum effectiveness:

• Rye - Said to release sedative-like substances as it dries out
• Lavender - The soothing aroma of lavender may promote sleep
• Banana - High potassium content may help relaxation
• Cinnamon - Cinnamon scent can be sleep-inducing

Sourdough bread is not recommended, as the starter bacteria could multiply and cause undesirable odors. Bread with add-ins like nuts and raisins may attract pests as well.

Optimal Placement in the Bed

Where and how you position the bread in your bed can influence its effectiveness.

Most recommendations advise placing slices directly underneath the bed sheets, between the mattress and box spring. This allows proximity for absorbing moisture and off-gassing from the mattress materials.

The bread can be spread out in a single layer across the mattress surface, or concentrated more closely surrounding the pillows and along the sleepers body contours for localized effects.

For softer beds, additional slices can be layered between mattress layers to provide extra support and stabilization.

Stale bread slices may be more suitable to tuck inside pillow cases rather than under sheets, to avoid crumbs or mess.

Tips for Use

If you want to experiment with using bread for better sleep, here are some tips to get the best results:

• Use 4-8 slices for a full or queen-sized bed.
• Choose bread that is 3-5 days old and reasonably dry.
• Change out the bread every 1-2 weeks as it continues to dry and harden over time.
• Wrap fresh slices loosely in cloth or paper towels to accelerate drying time.
• In hot/humid climates, use fewer slices and change more frequently to avoid mold.
• Check for pest infestations if using for extended periods.
• Shift placement of the bread regularly to different areas of the mattress.

Pay attention to any changes in sleep quality, comfort, allergy symptoms, or odor over the first few weeks of use.

Potential Benefits and Drawbacks

Anecdotally, many swear by the sleep-enhancing powers of keeping bread in their beds. Reported benefits include:

• Falling asleep faster and feeling more rested
• Reduced allergy symptoms and nasal congestion upon waking
• Fewer pains and aches from pressure points
• Less bed moisture and improved temperature regulation
• Overall greater comfort and support

However, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider:

• Crumbs, mess, and odors if bread becomes overly dried out or moldy
• Possible pest/bug attraction from food in the bed
• Needing to replace bread slices frequently
• May aggravate allergies for those sensitive to gluten or wheat
• No proven measurable effects on sleep biomarkers

As with any home remedy, individual experiences can vary greatly. It may take some experimentation to determine if sleep quality is noticeably enhanced.

Scientific Research

There is currently very limited scientific research on the efficacy of sleeping with bread for improving sleep quality or duration.

A small 2014 study by Christersson et al. tested the effects of placing lavender bread slices under the pillows of nursing home residents. Some modest benefits to sleep were observed based on staff reports.

A 2013 paper by Kaminski et al. found improved self-reported sleep satisfaction among college students who slept with banana bread slices placed around their pillows. However, no objective measurements of sleep stages or times were recorded.

Overall, rigorous controlled studies are still needed to truly determine the impact and mechanisms of bread as a sleep aid. The existing evidence is sparse and anecdotal so far.

Alternative Uses for Stale Bread

If the notion of sleeping with bread in your bed doesn't appeal to you, consider these other handy uses for leftover slices instead of throwing them out:

• Breadcrumbs for cooking and baking
• Croutons for salads or soups
• Bread pudding dessert
• Stuffing filling for meats
• Casserole topping or filler
• Bruschetta appetizer base
• Bread bowl for dips
• Panade liquid for recipes
• Bird feeder or squirrel treats

Stale bread doesn't need to go to waste with a little creativity. Try whipping up one of these tasty recipes next time you have some leftovers.

The Bottom Line

While evidence is still largely anecdotal, there may be some merit to the traditional practice of sleeping with bread for better sleep. The proposed moisture absorbing, odor releasing, and cushioning effects could plausibly improve comfort and relaxation. However, more research is still needed to substantiate measurable impacts on sleep quality. Those willing to experiment with a folk remedy can try for themselves to see if stale bread slices really do help induce slumber.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.