Tryptophan Isn’t What Puts You Under on Thanksgiving. It’s the Carbs

Many people believe that the turkey consumed on Thanksgiving is responsible for the infamous post-meal food coma. However, it is not actually the tryptophan in the turkey that makes you feel sleepy.

Tryptophan is an amino acid found in turkey, but it is not present in large enough quantities to cause drowsiness on its own. In fact, tryptophan needs to be consumed on an empty stomach without any other competing amino acids in order to have a sedative effect.

What really makes you feel tired after a big Thanksgiving meal is the high carbohydrate content of traditional dishes like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and pie. Carbohydrates trigger the release of insulin, which leads to a temporary drop in blood sugar levels and ultimately makes you feel sluggish.

Additionally, consuming a large amount of food in one sitting puts a strain on your digestive system, diverting blood flow away from other parts of your body and contributing to feelings of fatigue.

So next time you feel like napping after Thanksgiving dinner, blame the carbs, not the turkey. And remember, moderation is key when it comes to enjoying holiday fare without feeling overwhelmingly exhausted.