What Causes Food Coma?
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Large Meals: Eating a heavy meal, especially one high in carbohydrates and fats, diverts blood flow to your digestive system and away from your brain and muscles.
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Insulin Spike: A big meal—particularly with lots of sugars or starches—can spike insulin, which then affects other hormones like tryptophan and serotonin, making you feel sleepy.
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Tryptophan and Serotonin: Tryptophan (found in foods like turkey, dairy, and nuts) helps produce serotonin and melatonin, which are related to relaxation and sleep.
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Body’s Energy Shift: Your body uses energy to digest food, which can leave you feeling sluggish temporarily.
Common Symptoms
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Drowsiness
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Lack of motivation
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Slowed thinking or foggy brain
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A strong urge to nap
How to Avoid a Food Coma
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Eat smaller portions
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Balance your meals with fiber, protein, and healthy fats
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Avoid sugary or highly processed foods in large quantities
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Don’t skip breakfast or earlier meals (to avoid overcompensating at one meal)
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Try light physical activity after eating, like walking
