Have you ever noticed how sleepy people get after a big meal—especially during the holidays? One moment everyone’s laughing around the table, and the next, half the group has vanished to find a cozy corner for a quick nap. It got me wondering: Why does eating make us so tired? So I did a little digging, and here’s what I found.
Feeling sleepy after eating—often called postprandial somnolence or the classic “food coma”—is a common experience, and it’s caused by a mix of biological and nutritional factors. Here’s what they say is really going on:
1.) Blood Sugar Fluctuations
Meals high in refined carbohydrates (like white bread, pasta, or sugary snacks) cause a rapid spike in blood sugar.
Your body releases insulin to bring it back down, and that crash can leave you feeling sluggish.
2.) Tryptophan & Serotonin
Foods like turkey, milk, eggs, and nuts contain tryptophan, an amino acid that helps produce serotonin, which regulates mood and sleep.
A meal rich in protein and carbs can increase serotonin levels, making you feel drowsy.
3.) Melatonin-Rich Foods
Some foods naturally contain melatonin, the sleep hormone—like tart cherries, oats, rice, and pistachios.
These can subtly signal your body to wind down.
4.) Large Meal Volume
Eating a big meal diverts energy to digestion. Your body focuses on breaking down food, which can leave you feeling tired.
5.) Circadian Rhythm
Many people experience a natural dip in energy in the early afternoon. Eating during this time can amplify the effect.
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