It is a common occurrence that one can feel drowsy after eating Thanksgiving dinner. The connection between turkey and being tired is a common topic of discussion and actually involves some science.
One of the most frequent reasons for post-meal drowsiness is tryptophan, an amino acid found in turkey. Tryptophan plays an important role in the production of serotonin. This helps regulate mood and promotes relaxation. When one consumes turkey, the tryptophan can turn into serotonin, which can lead to feelings of calmness and sleepiness. However, it is essential to note that turkey is not the only food that contains tryptophan. Many other foods, including chicken, beef, fish, eggs, and dairy products, also contain significant amounts of this amino acid. So, turkey may not be the only contributor to post-meal sleepiness.
Another factor in Thanksgiving dinner sleepiness is the size of the meal itself. Traditional Thanksgiving dinners are often heavy on carbohydrates and sugar. There is dressing, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, macaroni and cheese, and an endless variety of desserts. Consuming a large amount of food can lead to an increase in blood flow to the digestive system, pushing blood away from other areas, including the brain. This can result in feelings of grogginess or even a sudden crash on the comfy living room couch.
Feeling tired after eating turkey or any large meal can be attributed to a few factors, including the presence of tryptophan, the weight of the meal, and blood sugar. All these carbs raise blood sugar causing drowsiness. So, the next time the feeling of sleepiness creeps up after a Thanksgiving meal, remember that there are a combination of factors at play. Most of which are perfectly normal and part of enjoying a wonderful and filling meal.
