Why Does Turkey Make You Feel Tired? The Truth Behind the Turkey Nap
If you’ve ever felt sleepy after a big turkey dinner, you’re not alone! At Revive Wellness in East Lansing, we love helping our community understand how food affects the body—and turkey’s reputation for causing drowsiness is one of the most common questions we hear during the holidays.
The Tryptophan Story
Turkey contains an amino acid called tryptophan. Tryptophan is important because your body uses it to make serotonin, a brain chemical that helps regulate mood and sleep. Serotonin can then be converted into melatonin, which helps you feel sleepy.
But here’s the catch: While turkey does have tryptophan, it’s not much more than what you’d find in other meats like chicken or beef. So why do so many people associate turkey with feeling tired?
It’s Not Just the Turkey
The real reason you feel sleepy after a big holiday meal is likely a combination of things:
Big Portions: Large meals, especially those rich in carbs (like stuffing, potatoes, and desserts), signal your body to slow down and focus on digestion.
Carbohydrates: Eating carbs with turkey helps more tryptophan enter your brain, which can increase serotonin and melatonin production.
Celebration & Relaxation: Holidays are a time to unwind—so you may simply be letting your guard down and feeling cozy!
Turkey’s Nutritional Benefits
Even if it’s not the sole reason for your post-meal nap, turkey is a healthy choice. It’s packed with lean protein, B vitamins, zinc, and selenium, all of which support your immune system and energy levels.
Wellness Tip
Enjoy your turkey as part of a balanced plate, and don’t worry about a little drowsiness after your meal. If you want to avoid feeling overly tired, try eating a bit less at one time and going for a walk after dinner.
Celebrate (and Rest) Well
At Revive Wellness, we believe in enjoying good food and good company—without the guilt. For more wellness tips or to schedule your next self-care appointment, visit www.revivewellness517.com.
