Does Turkey Really Make You Sleepy? The Thanksgiving Nap, Explained

Meet tryptophan, the famous suspect

Tryptophan is an amino acid found in lots of protein-rich foods. Your body uses it to make serotonin, which it can then turn into melatonin, a hormone that helps control sleep. That's where turkey got its sleepy reputation.

The problem is that turkey isn't special. Chicken, beef, cheese and many other foods have similar amounts. If turkey knocked people out, every deli sandwich would come with a warning label.

Tryptophan has a hard time getting where it's going

Even when you eat tryptophan, it has to compete with other amino acids to get into your brain. When it's part of a big meal with lots of other protein, it's not exactly at the front of the line. It's more like trying to get through a crowded airport with a pie.

The real culprits

The bigger reason you're sleepy after Thanksgiving dinner is the size of the meal. Big meals tend to make people drowsy (scientists are still arguing about exactly why), and meals heavy in carbs (we see you, mashed potatoes, stuffing and rolls) can leave you feeling sluggish.

Add dessert, maybe some wine or beer, a warm house and a football game on TV, and your body gets one clear message: it's nap time.

Plus, a lot of people wake up early to cook or travel. By the time the pie comes out, you've been on the go for hours. Turkey is just the easiest one to blame because it's sitting in the middle of the table.

How to stay awake after the big meal

Take smaller portions (you can always go back), go easy on the alcohol, drink some water and take a walk after dinner. Or don't. Napping on Thanksgiving is a proud American tradition, and we're not here to stop you.