"A little fatigue after eating a full meal is usually normal and not something to worry about," says Alyssa Pike, a dietitian. But if food is supposed to give you energy, why does eating tire you out?

Especially if you went from being very hungry, to being full within a short time, you will find yourself tired right after eating. From an evolutionary perspective, food was not always available. In this context, it makes sense for us to feel relaxed after a meal. Hunger-related hypervigilance has calmed down and we are free to rest.

On the other hand, your need for a nap after a meal may mean that you are still hungry. If we are still tired after eating, it may be because we have not eaten enough. 

You may also have hidden food intolerance that makes you drowsy after eating. Even health conditions such as chronic fatigue or anemia can make you tired after a meal.

If food constantly "tires" you, more than it strengthens you, do not avoid a visit to the doctor!

Are there foods that make you tired more than others?

Researchers do not fully understand why fatigue occurs after eating, but one hypothesis is that certain foods may affect this drowsiness. 

Tryptophan is the amino acid found in high-protein foods - think turkey - that is often blamed for that holiday nap, right after a meal. This amino acid helps the body create the neurotransmitter serotonin, which helps regulate sleep. It is possible that the increased production of serotonin is responsible for that post-meal drowsiness.

How to be less tired after eating?

It is best to understand what suits you and what does not. See if you notice a change after eating certain meals. See if eating more often and / or a mixture of macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, fats) help you feel more energetic.

Source: Bustle