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The Science Behind Thanksgiving: “Why Am I So Tired After Eating?”

  • Writer: Grace Andino
    Grace Andino
  • Nov 23, 2023
  • 2 min read

Have you ever wondered why you feel the urge to sleep after devouring a turkey? From cranberries to stuffing to cornbread, feeling fatigued after a large meal is expected and is more common during holiday seasons. When nodding off during a football game to snoozing on the couch, many people have wondered about the cause of this. Better known as Postprandial somnolence, that sleepy time feeling can be caused by several factors. 


Types of Food

According to a study from the Cleveland Clinic, foods that are saturated with carbohydrates and proteins tend to release tryptophan, an amino acid that is evident in turkey. Tryptophan can influence mood and sleep as it contributes to serotonin and melatonin production, causing a sudden feeling of sleepiness. But the release of tryptophan alone doesn't make you sleepy. Combined with sugary drinks, bread, stuffing, cornbread, and a multitude of other carb-rich side dishes, tryptophan works with your overall diet and lifestyle to give you a sudden sleepy feeling. 


Size/Overeating

A table full of tasty dishes and desserts only comes once (maybe twice) a year for most Americans. When given a multitude of options to choose from during a feast, most people (if not everyone) take a little bit of everything, resulting in an evidently larger plate. Overeating is one of the main factors behind feeling tired. As stated above, Carbohydrate-rich foods make you fall asleep faster; lots of them make you tired even quicker.


Alcohol Consumption

Known as a depressant, Alcohol slows down the central nervous system. This can immediately make you more tired and contribute to the post-meal sleepiness we have mentioned.


How to Avoid/Limit A Post-Meal Nap]

  • Get Enough Sleep

  • Eat Smaller Portions with Less Carbs

  • Reduce Alcohol Consumption:

  • Exercise Regularly


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