Why do certain foods make me feel drowsy?

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In summary, greasy foods can make you sleepy because they take energy to digest, and animals that eat seldom but a lot at one time typically sleep while digesting.
  • #1
daveed
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how come when i eat some foods, like turkey or greasy stuffs, i feel really drowsy?
 
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  • #2
Because you are eating too much. It takes energy to digest food. If you eat too much, especially of things that are hard to digest (grease in particular), your body will channel energy to the stomach. Animals that eat seldom but a lot at one time (boa constrictor, lion, etc.) typically sleep while digesting.
 
  • #3
Turkey contains an amino acid L-tryptophan that can make you sleepy. (there was a great tv commercial last year about turkey putting people to sleep)

Anyway, it seems it may not be a major culprit. Thanks to google, here is "everything you wanted to know about turkey, but were afraid to ask".

http://kidshealth.org/kid/talk/qa/turkey_sleepy.html
 
  • #4
Evo said:
Turkey contains an amino acid L-tryptophan that can make you sleepy...

oh, turkey, I misread the title of the thread and thought it said
"fools make me drowsy"
I guess I already am drowsy and had better trundle.
 
  • #5
marcus said:
oh, turkey, I misread the title of the thread and thought it said
"fools make me drowsy"

:smile: :smile: :smile:

I am often on these forums way, way too late.
 
  • #6
Greasy food quite literally bogs me down. There is a tangible difference I feel before and after.
 
  • #7
HallsofIvy said:
Because you are eating too much. It takes energy to digest food. If you eat too much, especially of things that are hard to digest (grease in particular), your body will channel energy to the stomach. Animals that eat seldom but a lot at one time (boa constrictor, lion, etc.) typically sleep while digesting.
This is also why you shouldn't swim right after a meal. Blood circulation changes, where the circulation increases to the organs involved in digestion.
 
  • #8
If you happen to have low blood pressure, the concentration of blood in the digestion process can make you light headed and woozy after meals.
 

FAQ: Why do certain foods make me feel drowsy?

Why do certain foods make me feel drowsy?

Certain foods contain substances that can affect our energy levels and make us feel more or less alert. Foods high in carbohydrates, such as pasta and bread, can cause a spike in blood sugar levels followed by a crash, leading to feelings of drowsiness. Foods high in tryptophan, like turkey, can also contribute to drowsiness as it is converted into serotonin and melatonin in the brain, which can induce relaxation and sleepiness.

What are some common foods that can make me drowsy?

Foods high in carbohydrates, like pasta, bread, and potatoes, can cause drowsiness due to their impact on blood sugar levels. Foods high in tryptophan, such as turkey, chicken, and dairy products, can also contribute to drowsiness. Additionally, foods that contain high levels of sugar or caffeine can cause a temporary energy boost followed by a crash, leading to drowsiness.

Can food allergies or intolerances make me feel drowsy?

Food allergies or intolerances can cause a range of symptoms, including drowsiness. When the body has an allergic reaction to a particular food, it releases histamines, which can make us feel tired and sleepy. Additionally, food intolerances can cause inflammation in the body, leading to feelings of fatigue and drowsiness.

Is it normal to feel drowsy after eating a large meal?

It is normal to feel drowsy after eating a large meal, especially one that is high in carbohydrates. The body has to work harder to digest a large amount of food, which can divert blood flow away from the brain and make us feel tired. Eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day can help to avoid this post-meal drowsiness.

Can avoiding certain foods help me avoid feeling drowsy?

Avoiding certain foods, especially those high in carbohydrates or tryptophan, can help to prevent drowsiness. Instead, opt for foods that are high in protein and healthy fats, which can provide sustained energy and prevent blood sugar crashes. Additionally, staying hydrated and limiting caffeine and sugar intake can also help to avoid drowsiness after eating.

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