Does turkey make you sleepy? The real cause of Thanksgiving drowsiness is more complex
The idea that turkey makes you sleepy seems to return every Thanksgiving.
We've all been there. After gorging on the roasted bird – and an array of delicious sides – you're ready to drift off to sleep in front of the TV.
Though turkey is often blamed for post-Thanksgiving drowsiness, the real culprit is found all over the table. Here's what to know.
Why does turkey make you sleepy?
Turkey contains tryptophan, an amino acid found in protein-rich foods. Tryptophan can turn into serotonin, a calming brain chemical, and the body also uses it to make melatonin, which aids in sleep, according to the National Library of Medicine.
Tryptophan might sound like the perfect sleep-causing ingredient, but turkey isn't the only Thanksgiving dish with the amino acid. It's found in other proteins-rich foods, such as chicken or ham, and even dairy products, including milk and cheese.
According to the Mayo Clinic, the true culprit of the usual post-meal sleepiness on Thanksgiving isn't solely the turkey. The larger factor at play is how much people eat during a traditional Thanksgiving feast. During the holiday, the average American consumes around 3,000 calories, Paste BN reports. This can cause feelings of sluggishness, as the body slows down to prioritize digestion.
Other typical Thanksgiving activities, such as watching TV and consuming alcohol, can play a role, too.
Be prepared: Here's the correct temperature to cook a turkey