Thanksgiving is just around the corner! And we all know what that means—turkey (And lots of it!) The biggest myth surrounding the beloved holiday’s feature nutriment is the notion that turkey makes us sleepy. 

Individuals attribute this to the presence of L-tryptophan, one of many amino acids that exist in this excellent source of protein. After digesting the turkey meat, L-tryptophan journeys to the brain, via our bloodstream. The brain then converts this particular amino acid into the chemical serotonin. Serotonin is what is responsible for making us calm and sleepy. ‘Ah-ha!’ That’s why I have trouble keeping my eyes open after that huge Thanksgiving meal. Hold on just a minute. After conducting further research, it is now known that L-tryptophan is only capable of immediately making an individual tired if it is consumed independent of other amino acids. Scientists have discerned that turkey contains plenty of other amino acids, so then why do I always get so drowsy after my Thanksgiving meal? “Blame it on blood flow.” Eating a huge meal results in less blood flowing to the brain to compensate for the increase in blood that flows to the stomach, needed to help with digestion. 

Eating high amounts of carbohydrates (mashed potatoes come to mind) is also more likely to make us sleepy than the diminutive amounts of tryptophan found in turkey. Actually, turkey contains about the same amount of tryptophan as chicken, with pork and cheese containing even more tryptophan per gram than turkey.

Tips to minimize Thanksgiving lethargy:

• Eat smaller portions, only go back for a refill if you are still hungry 
• Drink water with your meal – it will fill you up faster
• Go for a walk outside – get some fresh air and, simultaneously, kick start the digestion process 

Just don’t blame the turkey for making you tired after a colossal Thanksgiving feast!

References:

1. Kidsheatlh.org
2. http://www.physorg.com/news150573421.html

3. thecontentwrangler.com-Turkey image