Do Pork Rinds Cause Sleepwalking? Examining the Evidence

Crunchy salty and deliciously savory, pork rinds are a popular snack for many people. But could these tempting treats also lead some snackers to walk in their sleep? Let’s take a closer look at whether science supports a link between pork rinds and somnambulism.

What Are Pork Rinds?

Known also as pork skins or chicharrones, pork rinds are made from pig skin that has been deep fried or roasted until puffy and crispy. The subcutaneous fat renders out during cooking, leaving behind the crackling skin as a portable protein-packed snack

Pork rinds have been around for ages, enjoyed across many cultures. Their low-carb, high-fat nutrition profile has recently made them a go-to nibble for keto and low-carb dieters. But could they also be causing some unwanted midnight migrations?

What Causes Sleepwalking?

Sleepwalking, also called somnambulism, involves getting up and walking around while in a state of sleep. It occurs during non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, usually early in the night during deep sleep stages While asleep, the sleepwalker may seem awake and navigate their environment with eyes open

Sleepwalking most often begins in childhood, with most outgrowing it by adolescence. But it can occur at any age and affect around 4% of adults. It tends to run in families, indicating a genetic component.

Other factors that can trigger sleepwalking episodes include:

• Stress or anxiety
• Sleep deprivation
• Irregular sleep schedules
• Some medications, such as sedatives
• Underlying medical conditions, like sleep apnea
• Use of alcohol, caffeine, or other drugs

But could a pre-bedtime snack of pork rinds also set the stage for sleepwalking? Let’s dig into the evidence.

Is There a Link Between Pork Rinds and Sleepwalking?

At this point, there is no direct scientific proof that pork rinds cause sleepwalking. Sleep experts haven’t found any specific foods that can cause somnambulistic episodes on their own.

Reports from people who sleepwalk after eating chicharrones are also not enough to prove a cause-and-effect link. Correlation does not equal causation when it comes to food and sleep disorders.

That said, certain characteristics of pork rinds could theoretically disrupt sleep in those already prone to parasomnias like sleepwalking:

High sodium content – Consuming too much sodium close to bedtime could potentially lead to increased thirst and frequent waking at night. This sleep disruption could make some more apt to sleepwalk.

Fat content—Pork rinds have a lot of fat, which could slow down digestion and make you feel uncomfortable or give you heartburn when you lie down. This could disturb sleep continuity.

Dehydrating qualities – Pork rinds have a very drying effect on the mouth and body. If consumed before bed, this could increase the likelihood of waking for sips of water, interrupting sleep cycles.

Allergies – It’s possible for individuals to have a pork allergy or sensitivity to other ingredients in certain pork rind brands. An allergic reaction could cause sleep disturbances.

However, more research is needed to determine if pork rinds and their specific properties can actually instigate sleepwalking in susceptible individuals. Remember, correlation does not imply causation.

Tips for Reducing Sleepwalking

If you do experience somnambulism, either lifelong or occasional, here are some tips that may help reduce episodes:

• Establish a regular sleep-wake schedule and winding down routine.

• Make sure your bedroom is cool, dark, and quiet.

• Avoid stress, heavy meals, caffeine, alcohol, and screens before bedtime.

• Check with your doctor about any medications that could be interrupting sleep.

• Have any underlying conditions like sleep apnea or restless leg syndrome evaluated.

• Consider keeping a sleep diary to identify triggers.

• Place safely barriers if needed, like a warning bell on the door.

• See a sleep specialist for guidance on treatment options.

Dietary changes are unlikely to be a magic bullet for sleepwalking. But avoiding any food triggers, staying hydrated, and eating a balanced diet can support overall sleep health. Talk to your doctor if lifestyle measures don’t resolve chronic sleepwalking.

Healthy Low-Carb Snacks Besides Pork Rinds

While not definitively dangerous, pork rinds remain a highly processed convenience food that should be enjoyed in moderation. For those avoiding or limiting this snack, many other tasty options can satisfy cravings:

• Cheese crisps
• Vegetables with hummus or guacamole
• Hard boiled eggs
• Jerky sticks
• Fresh berries
• Greek yogurt
• Nut butter on celery
• Chia seed pudding
• Cottage cheese
• Smoothies
• Healthy homemade trail mix

When hunger strikes at night, stick to lighter, whole food snacks that won’t disrupt your sleep. A turkey roll-up, small handful of nuts, or banana with nut butter make smart choices over heavy, fried, or sugary treats.

The Bottom Line

At this time, there is no scientific proof that pork rinds directly cause somnambulism or night walking. However, certain qualities of this snack could potentially disturb sleep in those prone to sleepwalking. If you regularly experience sleepwalking, keeping a diary may help identify any food triggers. Overall diet, sleep hygiene, and stress levels play a larger role in this complex disorder. While pork rinds are fine for most in moderation, avoiding them before bedtime may improve sleep quality for those bothered by midnight perambulations.