the Truth About Those Thanksgiving Naps

For me and probably most of you, thoughts of Thanksgiving revolve around large family meals. As a child, I recall our Thanksgiving feast being followed by naps for family members of all ages.

In later years, after training as a nutritionist, it occurred to me that these Thanksgiving siestas may have been due to the effect of an amino acid called tryptophan that's found in turkey. Maybe that's the scientific explanation for those turkey-induced naps, I thought.

Well, even as most Americans head for the couch after Thanksgiving dinner, it's most likely not the turkey's fault. Tryptophan has been linked to sleep, but it is probably the other components of the meal or the prospect of cleaning up afterwards that are making our eyes droopy and our heads sleepy!

In order to feel the sleep effects of tryptophan, you'd have to take it on an empty stomach and without a protein source. The typical turkey dinner, however, is a great source of protein, carbohydrates, and fats.

What will make you drowsy? Consuming a large meal that's high in fat definitely helps. Remember that the larger the portions and the richer the meal, the more energy that's required to digest it. In addition, digestion directs energy away from other organs, including the brain, making you feel lethargic and sleepy. Finally, consuming alcohol as part of your holiday celebration also is likely to slow you down and add to your need for a nap.

This Thanksgiving, just take the nap and remember not to blame the turkey!