Eating foods that contain carbohydrates, as well as tryptophan and magnesium, may make you feel sleepy due to their effects on the body. Natalia Tananakina, PhD, endocrinologist at Meditsina JSC (Academician Roitberg clinic), told socialbites.ca.
According to the doctor, after eating carbohydrate-containing foods (especially simple ones), the blood sugar level rises and then falls rapidly. This causes a feeling of drowsiness.
“Such foods include desserts, white bread, pasta, white rice and potatoes. “Consuming carbohydrates in moderation can be beneficial for maintaining energy, but consuming too much can lead to post-meal drowsiness,” Tananakina explained.
The endocrinologist listed cottage cheese, turkey, milk, nuts and seeds among tryptophan-rich foods.
“Tryptophan is an amino acid that is a precursor to serotonin, a hormone that plays an important role in mood and sleep regulation. “It is possible that consuming foods containing tryptophan increases serotonin levels, which leads to feelings of drowsiness,” the endocrinologist said.
He says magnesium is an important mineral that plays a role in regulating sleep and rest.
“Low magnesium levels can contribute to insomnia and feelings of fatigue,” Tananakina said.
He added that eating magnesium-rich foods like nuts, seeds, spinach, avocados, bananas and dark chocolate can improve sleep quality and “contribute to an overall feeling of relaxation.”
Additionally, alcohol can also cause drowsiness, according to the endocrinologist. However, it should not be used as a sleeping pill.
“Although alcohol helps you fall asleep faster, it can disrupt your sleep patterns, leading to shallower and lower quality sleep. Therefore, even if you feel sleepy after drinking alcohol, it is important to moderate your consumption and pay attention to establishing healthy sleep habits,” he advised.
The expert warned that everyone’s response to foods is different, and foods that make one person sleepy may not have the same effect on another.
“If drowsiness after eating certain foods is regular and causes anxiety, it is recommended to consult a doctor to assess the general condition of the body,” the endocrinologist concluded.
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