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

Thanksgiving is a time for family, feasting, and, let’s face it, napping. Many people attribute that post-meal drowsiness to the amino acid tryptophan found in turkey, but the real culprit might be the carbohydrate-heavy side dishes we all love to indulge in.

While it’s true that tryptophan is a precursor to serotonin and melatonin, which are neurotransmitters involved in relaxation and sleep, the amount of tryptophan in turkey is not significantly higher than in other meats. In fact, turkey contains no more tryptophan than chicken or beef.

Carbohydrates, on the other hand, can cause a spike in insulin levels, which in turn leads to an increase in the production of serotonin. This can contribute to feelings of relaxation and drowsiness, especially when consumed in large quantities.

So, next time you find yourself nodding off on the couch after a Thanksgiving feast, blame the stuffing and mashed potatoes, not the turkey. And remember, moderation is key when it comes to indulging in those delicious carb-filled dishes!

Enjoy your Thanksgiving meal, but be mindful of the effects that excessive carbs can have on your energy levels. And if you do feel like taking a post-feast nap, blame it on the carbs, not the turkey!